What Alcohol is in Hard Mountain Dew? Revealed (2024)

Mountain Dew’s new offering, “Hard,” is a blend of orange citrus flavor, zero added sugar, and a boozy version of the classic soft drink. I love how alcohol gives its flavor a new twist.

But speaking of booze, I wonder what alcohol is in Hard Mountain Dew that enhances its bold flavors.

So, I asked a friend (in the mixology field) to know the alcoholic spirits present in Hard Mtn Dew flavors, and here’s what I’ve found out – read on.

What Kind Of Alcohol Does Mountain Dew Have?

The kind of alcohol Mountain Dew have is a malt beverage – a fermented drink made primarily from grains or seeds of a barley plant.

“Hard Mountain Dew: Where zesty exhilaration meets a subtle twist, crafting a tantalizing blend that elevates refreshment to a whole new level.” – Liquor Laboratory

There’s not much info regarding this, but there are notable things, like – the alcoholic versions are caffeine-free (though not gluten-free).

What Mountain Dew Has 5 Percent Alcohol?

Hard Mtn Dew canned beverages have 5% alcohol content, including all four flavors: Hard Baja Blast, Watermelon, Black Cherry, and Original Mountain Dew.

Actually, the first alcoholic versions are Watermelon, Black Cherry, and Original Mtn Dew. But soon after, the Boston Beer Company (with Blue Cloud Distribution) released the Hard Mtn Dew Baja Blast.

You can check out the complete list of Hard Mountain Dew flavors here.

What Other People Think It Contains

Seltzer

Some speculate that the spirit in Mtn Dew Hard might come from a seltzer base, aligning with the current trend of spiked seltzers that have gained popularity in recent years.

Beer

A more adventurous assumption is that the spirit could be derived from beer, integrating the classic brews with the zingy punch of Mountain Dew.

In fact, some consumers believed the alcoholic beverage in Mtn Dew could be Sam Adams since it is from the same company.

Vodka

I heard some consumers believing that Hard Mtn Dew contains vodka. I doubt it, but probably the neutral taste of vodka makes them believe that it easily harmonizes with Mountain Dew’s signature citrus notes.

Whiskey/Moonshine

For those who appreciate a bold and robust flavor profile, the idea of whiskey or even moonshine being the spirit source holds its appeal. But was Mountain Dew made for whiskey?

Did Mountain Dew Use To Have Alcohol?

No, Mountain Dew originally did not have any alcohol. The Hard Mtn Dew [1] soft drink is originally intended as a mixer for alcoholic spirits. But as its market expanded, it became a major soft drink brand.

“The combination of our experience in brewing and developing the best-tasting hard seltzers and hard teas, and Mtn Dew, a one-of-a-kind multi-billion-dollar brand, will deliver the excitement and refreshment that drinkers know and love.” – Dave Burwick, Boston Beer Company CEO

But in February 2022, the Boston Beer Company, in partnership with Blue Cloud Distribution, released the first alcoholic versions of these canned beverages, followed by the addition of Hard Baja Blast – which are all containing 5% alcohol.

States Alcoholic Mountain Dews Are Available

Upon its release, Hard Mtn Dew is only available in three US states: Florida, Tennessee, and Iowa. Besides, there was an exclusive partnership with Taco Bell and the Boston Beer Company during that time.

Currently, the Boston Beer Company expanded the Mtn Dew Hard distribution in the US, adding more US states. So, aside from Florida, Tennessee, and Iowa, you can now buy Hard Mtn Dew in the following states:

• Indiana
• Oklahoma
• Arkansas
• Montana
• Minnesota
• Missouri
• Virginia
• Ohio
• Illinois
• Arizona
• Kentucky
• Connecticut
• Las Vegas (the only allowed city in Nevada)

As of now, the Boston Beer Company is still working to secure permits to distribute the hard soda in more US states. It’s available in single cans and a variety pack, but they do not sell kegs [2].

FAQs Related to What Alcohol is in Hard Mountain Dew?

To Sum It Up

Hard Mountain Dew, a major soft drink brand from the Boston Beer Company, is a malt quencher. So, the spirit base is fermented, mainly consisting of grains or seeds from a barley plant.

It was originally intended as an alcohol mixer but now attracting the public as an alcoholic beverage, available in a single can and variety pack.

Additionally, it contains 5% ABV, similar to hard seltzers like White Claw and Truly, with flavor options: Baja Blast, Black Cherry, Watermelon, and Original.

References:

1. Our review of Hard Mountain Dew
2. How many beers are in a keg? Your guide to the gallon sizes of 7 different keg types.

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