Learn the Difference Between Club Soda and Seltzer

Club soda is a type of unflavored carbonated water that has been infused with minerals like potassium sulfate, potassium bicarbonate, sodium chloride, sodium citrate, disodium phosphate, and sodium bicarbonate. These minerals are added to enhance the flavor of the water, giving it a slightly saltier taste than seltzer.

Club soda can be used as a drink mixer, stain remover, and stand-alone drink. It is a common ingredient in cocktails such as a Tom Collins, a gin fizz, and a tequila soda. Though the drink contains trace amounts of sodium, there are no added sweeteners or carbs. While the additives may affect the taste, club soda contains zero calories.

Seltzer (commonly called seltzer water or soda water) is water that has been infused with carbon dioxide gas to make it carbonated. Plain seltzer is made using plain filtered water and contains no additional minerals, no sugar, carbohydrates, and has zero calories. Seltzer is similar to regular water in taste.

The name seltzer comes from the German town of Selters which was famous for its naturally effervescent mineral springs. Plain seltzer is also often confused with sparkling mineral water, which is made of natural spring water that contains minerals like calcium, magnesium, and sodium as well.

Some carbonated water fans may think that club soda and seltzer are completely interchangeable. However, there are a series of subtle differences between these types of bubbly water.

1. 1. They taste slightly different. Club soda has a slightly saltier taste than seltzer due to the added minerals during processing. Seltzer, on the other hand, tastes more similar to plain water. However, the taste difference is often so subtle that it is negligible.
2. 2. They are processed differently. Seltzer requires only two ingredients: water and carbon dioxide. Home carbonation machines have become widely available to seltzer lovers to help them make seltzer quick and easily. Club soda requires infusing the water with additional minerals (most commonly, sodium and potassium) and so is much harder to make on one’s own.
3. 3. Club soda is a mixology staple. Bartenders almost exclusively use club soda as a mixer in alcoholic beverages. Along with tonic water (carbonated water mixed with quinine and sweetened with high-fructose corn syrup), club soda is often used in vodka or gin cocktails.

Learn more about mixology from award-winning bartenders Lynnette Marrero and Ryan Chetiyawardana. Refine your palate, explore the world of spirits, and shake up the perfect cocktail for your next gathering with the MasterClass Annual Membership.