To the naked eye, these sparkling waters appear the same. Here’s the difference.

From mixed drinks to mocktails to refreshing cans of bubbly H20, carbonated waters seem to be popping up everywhere these days. But despite their seemingly interchangeable names, there are some stark differences between the most popular options. 

Some neutral picks are better for mixed drinks, while others can add a dose of sweetness to an otherwise bitter cocktail. 

Here’s the difference between the three most common types of sparkling water: club soda, seltzer, and tonic.

Seltzer

Seltzer—which originated in the German town of Selters—is arguably the most flavour-neutral of the three. Traditionally made with natural spring water, seltzers are injected with C02 to carbonate it.

You’ll typically find it in cocktails or as a substitute for club soda. Bonus: seltzer is a great way to help lift stains from clothing.

Get the recipe for our Canada Collins—which uses seltzer water—here.

Club soda

Club soda is virtually the same as seltzer water, with one addition: minerals. This bubbly drink can be infused with potassium sulfate, sodium chloride, and other minerals, giving it a slightly different flavour profile. 

We love club soda on its own with a slice of citrus or added to mixed drinks.

Get the recipe for our club soda Blueberry Lemonade here.

Tonic water

Tonic water has the most unique and recognizable flavour profile of the three.

Similar to club soda, tonic water is carbonated and infused with minerals. It also features quinine—derived from the bark of the cinchona tree—which gives it a distinct, almost bitter taste. This bitter flavour is typically masked with some form of sweetener, either high fructose corn syrup or sugar.

You’ll most often find it mixed with gin or vodka or in cocktails. There are many low-sugar and flavoured options available. 

Get the recipe for our Rosy Gin & Tonic here.

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