Hard seltzer sales can’t be stopped lately as new options continue to hit the market. One of the most exciting things about this industry is that it’s still so young; there’s still lots of space to grow and evolve.

We’re still learning what hard seltzer can look like. As brands continue to enter the hard seltzer space, the increase in competition forces companies to look for ways to set themselves apart from the rest of the pack.

Tolago Hard Seltzer, an organic agave-based sparkling drink, is launching in August and hoping that their unique take on alcoholic water will set them apart. Flavors include Lime, Guava Mango, Ginger Pear, and Cherry Rose.

“I believe that as talented beverage formulation specialists get involved in the category, perceptions will change,” says Tolago CEO Nicholas Greeninger. “Big beer wants to commoditize the offering, but the consumer will have the final say, as they always do.”

It’s exciting to see new seltzer companies branching out past the standard fruit and berry flavors available in most variety packs. The craze has inspired innovation from beer, wine, and soft drink companies alike.

Popular microbrewery SweetWater released its own Hydroponics Hard Seltzer in January. VP of marketing and innovation Brian Miesieski believes SweetWater struck gold with Hydroponics, which is available in Black Cherry Bomb, Lime Haze, Mother of Berries, and So Mango.

Billed as the “hard and heady seltzer brewed for the 420 lifestyle,” all flavors of Hydroponics Hard Seltzer are infused with hemp-derived terpenes, making it competitive in the burgeoning CBD market as well.

“As long as there’s competition, we’ll all continue to innovate and be creative,” says Miesieski.  “Consumers will demand more premium and higher-quality offerings, just like any other category.”

As demand for and profits from hard seltzer continue to rise, it is exciting to see where innovation pushes the industry.

Erin Grafton
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