White Claw Surge is a convenient, high-ABV hard seltzer with mixed reviews on taste, while Sierra Nevada IPAs offer a diverse range of hop-forward craft beers with a strong reputation for quality. The choice depends on preference for flavor profile, alcohol content, and brand reputation.
| Attribute | Hard Seltzer (White Claw Surge) | Craft Beer (IPA - Sierra Nevada) |
|---|---|---|
| Name | Hard Seltzer (White Claw Surge) | Craft Beer (IPA - Sierra Nevada) |
| Alcohol by Volume (ABV) | 8% (some sources indicate 7% ABV in certain regions like Canada) | Varies depending on the specific IPA. Examples include: 4.2% for California IPA, 6.8% for Celebration IPA, 6.7% for Hazy Little Thing IPA, 7% for Tropical Little Thing IPA, 7.2% for Torpedo Extra IPA, 7.4% for Dankful West Coast IPA, 9.5% for Big Little Thing Hazy Imperial IPA |
| Calorie Count | 160 calories per 12 fl oz can (220 calories per 19.2 fl oz can) | Varies depending on the specific IPA. For example: 95 per 12oz can for Trail Pass IPA, 143 calories in Summer Break IPA (per bottle), 214 calories in Hazy Little Thing IPA (per 12 fl oz), 237 calories in Torpedo Extra IPA (per serving), 250 calories in Big Little Thing Hazy Imperial IPA |
| Carbohydrate Content | 2 grams per 12 fl oz can (3 grams per 19.2 fl oz can) | Varies depending on the specific IPA. For example: 20g per 12oz can for Trail Pass IPA, 11g in Summer Break IPA (per bottle), 20.6g in Hazy Little Thing IPA (per 12 fl oz), 21g in Torpedo Extra IPA (per serving) |
| Sugar Content | 2 grams per 12 fl oz can | Sugar content is often 0g. |
| Flavor Profile | Variety Pack #1: Blackberry, Natural Lime, Blood Orange, and Cranberry. Variety Pack #2: Juicy Pineapple, Ripe Passion Fruit, Tart Green Apple, and Jammy Strawberry. | Generally hop-forward, with variations depending on the specific IPA. Common descriptors include citrus, pine, tropical fruit (mango, papaya, passion fruit), floral, and resinous notes. Some have a malt sweetness or caramel notes. |
| Ingredients Quality | Made from a blend of sparkling water, gluten-free alcohol (from malted grains), and a hint of fruit flavor. Other ingredients include cane sugar, citric acid, and sodium citrate. | Sierra Nevada uses high-quality, natural ingredients, including water, malt, hops, and yeast. They may also use malted wheat and rye, oats, and various fruits in some beers. |
| Carbonation Level | Described as a sparkling water base, implying a moderate to high carbonation level. | Can vary. Some IPAs are described as having light and carbonic carbonation, while others are described as medium. |
| Bitterness (IBU for IPA) | Not applicable as it is a hard seltzer, not an IPA. | Varies significantly. Examples: 18 IBU for Peachy Little Thing, 30 IBU for Rad Little Thing West Coast Hazy IPA, 34 IBU for Big Little Thing Hazy Imperial IPA, 35 IBU for Trail Pass IPA, 37 IBU for Sierra Nevada Pale Ale, 40 IBU for Hazy Little Thing IPA, 54 IBU for Hop Tropical IPA, 55 IBU for Dankful West Coast IPA, 60 IBU for Hop Hunter IPA, 64 IBU for Resilience IPA, 65 IBU for Torpedo Extra IPA |
| Mouthfeel | Some reviewers note a slightly thicker or more viscous mouthfeel compared to regular White Claw. | Can vary. Some are described as smooth and creamy, while others are light and crisp. Hazy IPAs often have a soft and silky mouthfeel. |
| Packaging Type | 12 fl oz slim cans, typically sold in 12-packs. Also available in 16oz and 19.2oz single cans. | Typically available in 12-oz cans and bottles, and sometimes in 19.2-oz cans. |
| Brand Reputation | Generally positive, as White Claw is a leading brand in the hard seltzer market. However, the Surge line has received mixed reviews regarding taste. | Sierra Nevada is a well-respected and pioneering craft brewery, known for quality and innovation. |
| Price per Unit | Around $16.98 for a 12-pack. Single 19.2 oz cans are around $3.79 - $3.99. | $12.99 for a 6-pack of 12-ounce cans |
| Pros | Portable and convenient slim can design, High carbonation is generally considered a positive aspect, Higher alcohol content for those desiring a stronger drink | Hop-forward taste with a balance of bitterness and malt sweetness, Refreshing, especially those with a crisp, dry finish, Carbonation level enhances the drinking experience, Intense and high-quality hop aroma, Pleasant aftertaste, often described as piney, citrusy, or hoppy, Recommended for both social gatherings and personal enjoyment, Well-balanced and flavorful compared to other IPAs, Focus on quality ingredients and brewing techniques, Price point is justified by the quality and taste |
| Cons | Mixed reviews regarding taste; some find it harsh or artificial, Some reviewers note an unpleasant aftertaste, sometimes described as metallic or like rubbing alcohol, Higher calorie count than original White Claw | Calorie and carbohydrate content can be moderate to high compared to other beverages. |