Jackson, Wyoming — Snake River Brewing, Wyoming’s oldest and most award-winning craft brewery, introduced a unique addition to its lineup: Snake River Seltzer, a non-alcoholic sparkling hop water. Crafted in the heart of Jackson Hole, this beverage captures the essence of Idaho hops, offering a crisp, refreshing alternative for those seeking full-flavor, health-conscious options without alcohol, calories, or sugar. Below, we explore the origins, flavors, and appeal of Snake River Seltzer, based on available information and brewery insights.
Origins and Concept
Snake River Brewing, established in 1994, has long been a pioneer in the craft beer scene, earning 36 medals and twice being named Small Brewery of the Year at the Great American Beer Festival. Inspired by the growing trend of sober curiosity and the demand for non-alcoholic beverages, the brewery’s team spent months researching and developing Snake River Seltzer. The result is a canned, non-alcoholic hop water made with a minimalist ingredient list: water, Idaho hops, and ascorbic acid (vitamin C). With zero calories, zero sugar, zero sweeteners, and no artificial flavors or colors, it’s marketed as a pure, no-nonsense drink—boasting “0 B.S.” on its label.
This sparkling hop water is designed for versatility. It can be enjoyed straight from the can for a hydrating, hop-forward experience or used as a flavorful base for cocktails, appealing to both non-drinkers and mixologists. Available in 6-packs at the brewery’s brewpub and select retailers in Wyoming, as well as 12-packs online, Snake River Seltzer has carved a niche in the non-alcoholic beverage market.
Flavor Profile
Unlike traditional hard seltzers, which often rely on fruit flavors or sweeteners, Snake River Seltzer focuses on the natural aroma and taste of Idaho hops. The brewery has not diversified into multiple fruit-based flavors, instead offering a single, signature hop water variant that emphasizes purity and simplicity. Here’s a breakdown of its flavor profile:
Sparkling Hop Water: The sole offering in the Snake River Seltzer lineup, this beverage delivers a subtle yet distinct hop character. The Idaho hops impart a floral, citrusy, and slightly piney aroma, with a crisp, clean taste that avoids the bitterness typically associated with hop-heavy beers. The carbonation provides a refreshing fizz, making it a light and hydrating option. Consumers can expect a taste that mirrors the essence of a hop-forward craft beer but without alcohol, malt, or sweetness. Reviewers note its ability to feel like a “sparkling water with a generous squeeze of hop essence,” offering a sophisticated yet approachable flavor for those new to hop water.
No additional flavors, such as fruit or botanical infusions (e.g., grapefruit, lime, or hibiscus), have been reported in the Snake River Seltzer range. The brewery’s focus remains on perfecting this single, hop-centric product, aligning with its commitment to quality over quantity. For comparison, other brands like River City Seltzers offer flavors like Peach or Unicorn Fuel (rose hips and hibiscus), but Snake River Brewing prioritizes the unadulterated hop experience.
Why Snake River Seltzer Stands Out
Snake River Seltzer taps into several key trends in the beverage industry:
Health-Conscious Appeal: With zero calories, carbs, sugar, or sweeteners, it caters to health-conscious consumers seeking flavorful alternatives to sugary sodas or alcoholic drinks. Its gluten-free status further broadens its appeal.
Sober Curiosity: The rise of non-alcoholic beverages has been driven by consumers exploring alcohol-free lifestyles. Snake River Seltzer provides a craft brewery experience without the buzz, making it ideal for designated drivers, athletes, or anyone taking a break from alcohol.
Local Craftsmanship: As the first hop water canned in Jackson Hole, it reflects Snake River Brewing’s commitment to local ingredients and innovation. The use of Idaho hops ties the product to the Rocky Mountain region’s agricultural heritage.
Versatility: Whether sipped solo or mixed into cocktails, Snake River Seltzer offers flexibility. Its hoppy profile can enhance mocktails or add complexity to spirit-based drinks, such as a hop-infused gin and tonic.
Availability and Consumer Reception
Snake River Seltzer is available in 6-packs at the Snake River Brewing brewpub (265 S Millward St, Jackson, WY) and select Wyoming retailers, including Creekside Market, Cowboy Coffee, and A.J.’s Discount Liquor. For broader access, 12-packs can be purchased online at snakeriverbrewing.com, with shipping costs included in the price. While specific consumer reviews for the seltzer are limited, the brewery’s reputation for quality suggests strong local support. Posts on platforms like Reddit praise Snake River Brewing’s overall offerings, with users calling it a “phenomenal brewery” and recommending its products to craft beverage enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Snake River Seltzer is a testament to Snake River Brewing’s ability to innovate while staying true to its craft roots. Its singular Sparkling Hop Water flavor, built on the pure essence of Idaho hops, offers a refreshing, health-conscious alternative to traditional seltzers and alcoholic beverages. Whether you’re a hop enthusiast, a sober-curious explorer, or simply looking for a versatile mixer, this non-alcoholic hop water delivers a crisp, clean taste with zero compromises. As the beverage industry continues to evolve, Snake River Seltzer stands out as a bold, minimalist choice from one of America’s most celebrated craft breweries.
For more information or to purchase, visit Snake River Brewing.
About Snake River Brewing
Snake River Brewing, Wyoming’s oldest and most celebrated craft brewery, continues to redefine excellence in Jackson Hole since its founding in 1994. Renowned for its handcrafted, award-winning beers, including the gold-medal-winning Snake River Pale Ale and Jenny Lake Lager, the brewery has earned over 36 medals and was twice named Small Brewery of the Year at the Great American Beer Festival. Nestled in the heart of the Teton Mountain Range, Snake River Brewing’s family-owned brewpub at 265 S. Millward Street offers a vibrant community hub, serving innovative brews, specialty cocktails, and a diverse menu of artisanal cuisine from its iconic wood-fired oven. Committed to quality, community, and conservation, Snake River Brewing invites locals and visitors alike to experience its legacy of craft and flavor.
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