How to Make Your Own Spiked Seltzer
I’ve been adding alcohol to seltzer for a while now, so the sudden popularity of strong seltzer took me by surprise. Any seltzer can be tempered by adding a booze, but pouring a shot into a can of Polar or La Croix won’t make it taste like White Claw. However, you can do more with a little sugar.
You see, unlike “innocent” seltzer drinks, spiked seltzer water contains a little sugar – about a gram – just enough to reduce the ethanol pungency. Armed with this knowledge, there is no reason why you cannot reproduce the effects at home (using the alcohol you already have) and you can change the booze . Since we’re aiming for about 6% ABV, you’ll need one and a quarter ounce 80 spirits and half a teaspoon of plain syrup. If you want to enhance the flavor, add a bit of bitter. (Although I love Polar and La Croix, I have to admit that they taste like you are staring very intently at the fruit while sipping seltzer water.) You can even cook it right in the jar. To make a strong seltzer, you will need:
- 1 can of your favorite seltzer water, 8 ounces
- 1 1/4 ounce strong alcoholic beverage (vodka is best)
- 1/2 teaspoon simple syrup ( make a small amount in a mug )
- Bitters to taste (fruit flavored bitters are best)
Open a jar of seltzer water and add an ounce and a quarter. Drink this. Combine the syrup with the liquor, then slowly pour it into the jar. Stir the contents of the jar with a straw and take a sip. If you want a lighter fruity flavor, add some grapefruit, lime, cranberry, or grapefruit bitterness.