At a brewery, a seltzer refers to a type of alcoholic beverage that is brewed and fermented using a sugar source and yeast, similar to the process of brewing beer. While seltzers are often associated with being a refreshing and bubbly alternative to beer, they actually fall into the category of “flavored malt beverages” rather than being classified as a pre-mix drink.
The process of brewing a seltzer starts with selecting a sugar source, such as cane sugar or malted grains, which will serve as the fermentable base. This sugar is then combined with water and heated to create a solution known as the wort. Just like in beer brewing, the wort is then transferred to a fermentation vessel and yeast is added.
The yeast consumes the sugar in the wort and converts it into alcohol through the process of fermentation. This fermentation process typically takes several days to complete, during which time the yeast also produces carbon dioxide, resulting in the desired effervescence in the seltzer. Once fermentation is complete, the seltzer is usually filtered or clarified to remove any residual yeast or sediment.
After fermentation, the seltzer can be flavored to enhance its taste. This is often done by adding natural or artificial flavorings, such as fruit extracts or essences. The choice of flavors can vary widely, from classic options like lemon or lime to more adventurous combinations like mango or raspberry. Some breweries also add a hint of sweetness to their seltzers, although many seltzers are intentionally made to be dry and low in sugar.
The final step in the brewing process is carbonation. Just like in beer production, carbonation can be achieved through natural carbonation, where the seltzer is primed with a small amount of sugar and allowed to naturally carbonate in the bottle or keg, or by force carbonation, where carbon dioxide is directly infused into the seltzer.
It is worth noting that while seltzers are often associated with being light and low in calories, not all seltzers are created equal. Some seltzers may have higher alcohol content or added sugars, which can impact their nutritional profile. As a sommelier and brewer, it is important to consider the specific brand and style of seltzer when evaluating its characteristics and recommending it to customers.
A seltzer at a brewery is a type of flavored malt beverage that is brewed and fermented using a sugar source and yeast. While it may not fit the traditional definition of beer, seltzers share similar brewing processes and are categorized as flavored malt beverages. The wide variety of flavors and carbonation methods allows for a diverse range of seltzers to be produced, catering to different tastes and preferences.