Vodka seltzer is a consumer term commonly used for a ready-to-drink alcoholic beverage that identifies vodka as its alcohol base. Product formulas and label classifications vary, so use the current package to confirm the alcohol base, alcohol by volume, serving information, and other product facts.
Last reviewed: October 15, 2026. This guide is for adults 21 and older and provides general label-reading information, not medical or dietary advice.
What makes a seltzer a vodka seltzer?
The stated alcohol base is the most useful distinction. Products described as vodka seltzer identify vodka as an alcohol base. Products described as hard seltzer can have different alcohol bases and label classifications. Packaging can look similar across the ready-to-drink aisle, which is why the current label matters more than the can format alone.
For distilled spirits products, the U.S. Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau identifies mandatory label information that includes the brand name, class or type designation, alcohol content, net contents, health warning statement, and the responsible company’s name and address. Specialty products may also require a statement of composition.
Vodka seltzer, hard seltzer, and canned cocktail compared
| Term | What it generally describes | What to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Vodka seltzer | A carbonated ready-to-drink beverage that uses vodka as its alcohol base | Class or type, statement of composition, ABV, container size, and product facts |
| Hard seltzer | A consumer term used for products that can have different alcohol bases and label classifications | Alcohol base and legal designation on the package |
| Canned cocktail | A ready-to-drink cocktail sold in a can and made with a stated alcohol base or formulation | Spirit type, ingredients or composition, ABV, and serving information |
How should you read a vodka seltzer label?
- Find the alcohol base. Look for vodka, a class or type designation, or a statement of composition.
- Check the ABV. Alcohol by volume states the percentage of the beverage that is alcohol.
- Check the container size. ABV and fluid ounces work together when comparing total alcohol.
- Read the package facts. If calories, carbohydrate, sugar, or ingredient information is provided, compare the same serving or container size.
- Use the current package. Websites and retail listings can become outdated, while the applicable can or carton is the immediate product reference.
How much alcohol is in a vodka seltzer?
There is no single ABV for every vodka seltzer. Compare the percentage on the label and the container size. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism defines one U.S. standard drink as approximately 0.6 fluid ounces, or 14 grams, of pure alcohol. A package size alone does not tell you the total alcohol content.
What is an example of a vodka seltzer?
Landshark Vodka Seltzer is one example. It is made with real vodka, is 4.5% ABV with 90 calories per 12 fl oz can, is gluten-free, and comes in four flavors: Lime, Fruit Punch, Pineapple, and Mango.
Those details describe Landshark specifically. They should not be generalized to every vodka seltzer.
Where can adults 21+ look for Landshark Vodka Seltzer?
Use the Landshark store locator to search for nearby retailers. Inventory and package selection vary by location, so confirm current stock with the retailer before visiting.
Sources
- U.S. Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau: Distilled Spirits Labeling
- U.S. Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau: Anatomy of a Distilled Spirits Label
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism: What Is a Standard Drink?
- The Gambrinus Company launch announcement
For adults 21 and older. Please enjoy responsibly.
