As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with a detailed answer to your question about whether Ranch Water seltzer is considered malt liquor.
Ranch Water is a type of hard seltzer that is gaining popularity in the market. It is important to note that hard seltzers, including Ranch Water, typically use a brewed-malt base rather than a spirit base. This means that the alcohol content in Ranch Water is derived from a malted grain, such as barley, that has been brewed and then fermented. This brewing process is similar to what is used in the production of beer.
Malt liquor, on the other hand, refers to a type of beer that is brewed with a high proportion of malted grains, such as barley, and often has a higher alcohol content than traditional beer. Malt liquors are known for their strong and robust flavors, and they are typically sold in larger-sized bottles or cans.
While Ranch Water does use a brewed-malt base, it is not considered malt liquor in the traditional sense. Ranch Water is a flavored hard seltzer that is inspired by the classic Texan cocktail of the same name. It is typically infused with natural flavors like lime and is known for its refreshing and crisp taste. Unlike malt liquors, Ranch Water is not brewed with a high proportion of malted grains and does not have the strong and robust flavors associated with traditional malt liquors.
It is worth mentioning that Lone River, the brand behind Ranch Water, currently offers their product in Texas and Tennessee. However, they have plans for expansion, so it is possible that Ranch Water will become more widely available in the future.
While Ranch Water uses a brewed-malt base similar to malt liquor, it is not considered malt liquor itself. Ranch Water is a flavored hard seltzer with a refreshing taste, inspired by the Texan cocktail of the same name.