Alcoholic beverages: Non-Alcoholic Aperol Spritz (Lyre's Italian Orange) vs. Topo Chico Hard Seltzer Margarita

Quick Verdict

Lyre's Italian Orange is a suitable choice for those seeking a non-alcoholic Aperol Spritz alternative, while Topo Chico Hard Seltzer Margarita caters to those looking for a convenient, alcoholic margarita-flavored beverage. The choice depends on whether you prefer a non-alcoholic option or a ready-to-drink alcoholic beverage with a margarita flavor.

Lyre's Italian Orange offers a non-alcoholic alternative to Aperol, focusing on a bittersweet orange flavor profile, while Topo Chico Hard Seltzer Margarita provides a range of margarita-inspired flavors with varying alcohol content.
Lyre's contains artificial colors, while Topo Chico contains sucralose in some varieties, which may be a concern for some consumers.
Lyre's is designed to be mixed, whereas Topo Chico is ready-to-drink in a can.

Key features – Side-by-Side

Attribute	Non-Alcoholic Aperol Spritz (Lyre's Italian Orange)	Topo Chico Hard Seltzer Margarita
Name	Non-Alcoholic Aperol Spritz (Lyre's Italian Orange)	Topo Chico Hard Seltzer Margarita
Alcohol Content (ABV)	Less than 0.5% ABV, some sources specify 0.0% ABV	4.5% (Variety Pack), 6% (Variety Pack), 8% (Margarita MAX FAB)
Flavor Profile	Bittersweet orange, with flavors of orange, rhubarb, and herbal complexity. It finishes dry and refreshing with citrus notes.	Infused with lime, salt, and tequila flavors. Variety pack includes: Prickly Pear Margarita (prickly pear and lime), Tropical Pineapple Margarita (pineapple, coconut, and lime), Signature Margarita (sweet and tart lime), and Strawberry Hibiscus Margarita (strawberry, floral, hibiscus, and lime).
Calorie Count	25 kcal per 30ml serving; 80-83 kcal per 100ml	100 calories per 12 oz can
Sugar Content	6g of sugar per 30ml serving; 20g per 100ml	2 grams per 12 oz can, 1 gram of added sugar
Carbonation Level	Moderate, designed to be mixed with sparkling wine or soda	Crisp and refreshing
Ingredients Quality	Water, sugar, natural flavoring, and some artificial colors (Sunset Yellow, Azorubine). Vegan, dairy-free, nut-free, egg-free, and gluten-free.	Made with real lime juice and added minerals. Some varieties contain sucralose.
Presence of Artificial Sweeteners/Flavors	Contains natural flavorings and artificial colors (Sunset Yellow E110, Azorubine E122)	Contains natural flavors. Some varieties contain sucralose.
Packaging Type (can, bottle)	700ml bottles	Cans (12 oz variety pack, 24 oz and 16 oz single cans)
Serving Size	30ml	12 fl oz (355 mL)
Brand Reputation	Lyre's is known for its high-quality non-alcoholic spirits and is a well-regarded brand in the non-alcoholic market.	Topo Chico is known for its crisp mineral water. The hard seltzer aims to deliver refreshment.
Price per Serving	Varies depending on the retailer and location	Varies depending on the retailer and pack size
Availability	Widely available online and in specialty stores	Available nationwide
Price	Not available	Not available
Ratings	Not available	Not available

Overall Comparison

Lyre's Italian Orange: <0.5% ABV, 25 kcal/30ml, 6g sugar/30ml; Topo Chico Margarita: 4.5-8% ABV, 100 calories/12oz, 2g sugar/12oz.

Pros and Cons

Non-Alcoholic Aperol Spritz (Lyre's Italian Orange)

Pros:

Captures the essence of a traditional Aperol Spritz with a vibrant, bittersweet flavor
Considered a remarkable alternative to Aperol, delivering a similar citrusy flavor profile
Perfect balance of sweet and bitter notes with a refreshing citrus profile
Refreshing and invigorating
Recommended for both social gatherings and casual consumption
Pairs well with light appetizers like bruschetta, olives, or charcuterie
Pairs well with fresh fruit or citrus-forward desserts
Bottle has a screw cap for resealing

Cons:

Some reviews mention the presence of artificial colors, which could potentially contribute to an artificial aftertaste for some individuals

Topo Chico Hard Seltzer Margarita

Pros:

Crisp and refreshing carbonation
Unique flavors
Made with real lime juice and added minerals
Convenient and easy to use cans
Suitable for social gatherings, poolside BBQs, and beach days
Pairs well with various foods like fish tacos and spit-roasted pork

Cons:

Some varieties contain sucralose, which can leave an artificial aftertaste

User Experiences and Feedback

Non-Alcoholic Aperol Spritz (Lyre's Italian Orange)

What Users Love

Remarkable alternative to Aperol
Refreshing
Game-changer for recreating Aperol-based cocktails without alcohol

Common Complaints

Potential artificial aftertaste due to artificial colors

Value Perception

Considered a premium option
Price point is reasonable for the quality

User Recommendations

Captures the essence of a traditional Aperol Spritz with a vibrant, bittersweet flavor.
The sweetness from orange is fused with the complex and astringent flavors of rhubarb, finishing dry and deliciously refreshing.

Topo Chico Hard Seltzer Margarita

What Users Love

Refreshing
Captures the essence of a classic margarita
Lighter version of a traditional margarita
Unique flavors and the inclusion of minerals for taste

Common Complaints

Some reviewers have noted that the sucralose in some varieties can leave an artificial aftertaste

Value Perception

No value feedback reported.

User Recommendations

The Topo Chico Margarita Hard Seltzer is designed to capture the essence of a classic margarita with notes of lime, salt, tequila, and agave.
It is a lighter version of a traditional margarita.
The carbonation is described as crisp and refreshing.
The Signature Margarita flavor has a balance of sweet and tart lime taste.