When it comes to these bubbly beverages, you’ll often see seltzer water and tonic water on the shelf next to one another. However, they’re quite different in terms of ingredients, flavor, and uses. Whether you're mixing up a cocktail or looking for a non-alcoholic drink with a little bit of fizz, there are key differences between the two choices.
You might be asking yourself why we’d write a blog post like this? We’ve actually been asked this very question at events around Portland. If you’ve been wondering, you’re not alone!
What is Seltzer Water?
Seltzer water is carbonated water—water that has been infused with carbon dioxide gas under pressure. This process creates the refreshing fizz that many people enjoy. Seltzer is often free from calories, sugars, and sweeteners, making it a popular choice for those looking to hydrate without any added calories. Over the years the seltzer category has grown, and many seltzers are on the market that now contain sugar. Some examples you might know are Spindrift or Clearly Candian (I just outed myself as an elder Millennial…remember this stuff?)
Key Features of Seltzer Water
Ingredients: Just water and carbon dioxide.
Flavor: Neutral and bubbly; it has no distinct taste (unless it does! Think: Pamplemousse), making it a great mixer for cocktails or a refreshing standalone drink.
Calories: Zero calories, if not added flavor
What is Tonic Water?
Tonic water, on the other hand, is not just carbonated water; it is a flavored beverage that contains quinine, a compound from the bark of the cinchona tree. Quinine gives tonic water its characteristic bitter taste. Most commercial tonic waters also contain added sugars or sweeteners, which can vary widely between brands. The sugar is needed to keep the fizz and bubbles in tact after adding the additional quinine.
Key Features of Tonic Water
Ingredients: Carbonated water, quinine, sweeteners, and sometimes natural or artificial flavors.
Flavor: Distinctively bitter due to quinine, often sweetened to balance the flavor.
Calories: Generally higher in calories than seltzer, often containing around 80 calories per 12-ounce serving due to added sugars.
Taste Profile Comparison
When you sip seltzer water, you’ll notice a clean, crisp sensation with a bubbly mouthfeel but no flavor. It’s perfect for those who prefer a drink that refreshes without altering the taste of their food or cocktails.
Tonic water presents a purposeful and complex flavor profile. The bitterness from quinine combined with sweetness creates a unique taste that’s both refreshing and somewhat bold. It’s most famously paired with gin in the classic gin and tonic, but these days there are many more uses for tonic than ever before.
Uses for Tonic Water
Drink it straight! Dappled Tonic is excellent over ice.
Gin & Tonic, of course.
Floral tonic and wheat whiskey.
Citrus tonic and pineapple juice for a non-alcoholic twist.
Floral tonic water and brandy.
Aromatic tonic and bourbon.
Citrus tonic water and Blanc vermouth.
While both seltzer water and tonic water are carbonated beverages, they serve different purposes and offer different flavor experiences. Seltzer is a calorie-free, neutral option perfect for hydration and mixing, while tonic water adds a bittersweet twist to cocktails and has a unique flavor all its own that is great for non-alcoholic imbibing.
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