If you’ve spent any time exploring the world of non-alcoholic drinks lately, chances are you’ve come across hop water—a fizzy, refreshing beverage that’s quickly becoming a favourite among health-conscious sippers and beer lovers alike. But what exactly is hop water? How does it compare to non-alcoholic beer or even sparkling water? And why is it suddenly everywhere?
Let’s dive deeply into the bubbling world of hop water and explore why this crisp, zero-proof drink deserves a permanent spot in your fridge:
What Is Hop Water?
At its core, hop water is a simple yet surprisingly sophisticated beverage. It starts with carbonated water that’s been infused with hops—the cone-shaped flowers from the Humulus lupulus plant, famously used in brewing beer. However, unlike most non-alcoholic beers, hop water contains no calories and no sugar. That makes it a guilt-free way to enjoy the complex flavour of hops without any of the buzz, heaviness, or sugar crash.
The brewing process is relatively straightforward, yet nuanced. Hops are typically steeped in water—often through a cold-steep method to preserve the most aromatic and delicate oils. Some producers also include botanicals or citrus zest to round out the profile and add depth to the flavour.
The result? A bubbly, crisp drink that delivers a familiar bitterness and aroma without the maltiness or alcohol content of beer. Think of it as somewhere between sparkling water and a session IPA—with none of the downsides.
It’s not trying to be beer. It’s not trying to be seltzer. Hop water is carving its own lane in the ever-expanding world of non-alcoholic beverages.
The Rise In Popularity Of Hop Water
Why Hop Water Is Having A Moment
In a world where wellness is no longer a niche interest but a full-blown lifestyle, hop water has found its footing. And it’s not just riding the wave of the non-alcoholic movement—it’s helping to shape it.
Non-alcoholic beer sales are booming. So is sparkling water. The rise of sober-curious culture, Dry January, and mindful drinking habits has paved the way for beverages that offer more than hydration—they offer ritual, flavour, and functionality: Enter hop water.
People want more than just plain bubbles—they want character. They want complexity. And more importantly, they want options that support their health goals without sacrificing enjoyment.
Hop water checks all the boxes:
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Zero sugar
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Zero calories
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Zero alcohol
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Real flavour from real ingredients
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Refreshing and satisfying
It offers the ritual of cracking open a cold one at the end of the day without the mental or physical fog that alcohol can bring. It’s something you can sip after a run, during a work meeting, or while out at a picnic. It doesn’t feel like a compromise—it feels like an upgrade.
How Is Hop Water Made?
Ingredients And How It’s Made
Most hop waters keep things minimal, but the magic is in the simplicity. Typical ingredients include:
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Carbonated water – the base of the beverage, providing that signature fizz.
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Hops – often dry hops, added late in the process for maximum aroma and flavour extraction without bitterness.
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Natural flavours or extracts – optional but often used to enhance the hop profile with complementary notes.
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Botanicals – some variations include herbs or spices like ginger, mint, or citrus peel for complexity.
Unlike non-alcoholic beer, hop water isn’t brewed with malt, yeast, or fermentation. That means it’s naturally gluten-free, low in carbs, and clean from start to finish. It’s a drink with a focus—celebrating the hop in all its floral, fruity, bitter brilliance.
Some brands are even getting creative with functional ingredients. Think adaptogens like ashwagandha or L-theanine, or nootropics for mood and mental clarity. While these additions are fun and interesting, the heart of hop water remains the same: Carbonated water + hops = magic.
What Does Hop Water Taste Like?
So what does hop water actually taste like? The answer is: It depends on the hops used and the style of the beverage. Just like beer, different hop strains impart different flavour and aroma notes.
Some hop waters are:
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Bright and citrusy – with notes of grapefruit, lemon zest, or tangerine.
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Tropical and juicy – tasting like mango, pineapple, or passionfruit.
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Piney and earthy – giving off resinous, woodsy, or herbal vibes.
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Floral and delicate – showcasing lavender, chamomile, or wildflower aromas.
The bitterness is usually very mild—nowhere near the punch of an IPA—just enough to offer a crisp finish. It’s more of a refined bite than a full-on beer bitterness. That makes it appealing to both hop heads and people who typically steer clear of bitter beverages.
It’s worth noting: Hop water doesn’t taste like beer. It tastes like hops. If you’re someone who enjoys craft beer, you’ll likely find familiar flavours to love here. But even if you’re not a beer fan, hop water can be a totally different, surprisingly enjoyable experience—especially if you start with one that leans fruity or floral.
Health Benefits Of Hop Water
Hop water is more than just tasty and refreshing—it also brings a few wellness perks to the table. It’s not a health tonic per se, but for many people, it represents a smarter, cleaner choice in a world full of sugary sodas and boozy drinks.
Here are some reasons your body (and mind) might thank you:
Wellness
1. Relaxation Effects
Hops have been used for centuries in herbal medicine, primarily for their calming effects. Some studies suggest that hops may support better sleep, reduce anxiety, and even ease stress-related tension. While drinking hop water won’t knock you out, it can be a great way to wind down in the evening or take the edge off a hectic day—without turning to alcohol.
2. Gut-Friendly
Unlike soda or beer, hop water is gentle on the digestive system. It’s non-fermented, has no preservatives, and contains zero sweeteners or artificial ingredients. That makes it a great choice for people with sensitive stomachs or those trying to eliminate bloat-inducing or inflammatory beverages.
3. Perfect for Any Lifestyle
Hop water fits into virtually any dietary plan or lifestyle:
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Keto and low-carb? No problem.
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Gluten-free? Naturally.
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Paleo or sugar-free? You’re good to go.
It’s a drink that doesn’t require label-reading or second-guessing. You can feel good about drinking it, whether you’re on a cleanse, training for a marathon, or just trying to be more mindful.
How To Enjoy Hop Water
How To Drink It: Pairings And Serving Ideas
One of the best things about hop water is its versatility. It’s just as at home in a cooler on a hike as it is on a brunch table next to avocado toast. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:
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Straight from the can – cold, crisp, and satisfying. No fuss needed.
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Over ice with a twist – try adding a slice of lemon, lime, or even cucumber for an aromatic boost.
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Mocktail base – mix with muddled herbs, a splash of grapefruit juice, or a few drops of bitters for a no-proof cocktail with character.
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With spicy food – the citrusy bitterness complements tacos, Thai dishes, or anything with heat.
You can even use it as a base for alcohol-free sangria, shandies, or punch bowls—making it a social drink that shines in every setting.
Can You Make Hop Water At Home?
DIY Hop Water
Yes—you can totally make hop water at home! It’s a fun, simple project for the DIY drink enthusiast, and it doesn’t require any fermentation or fancy equipment.
Here’s what you’ll need:
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Food-safe dry hops – available from homebrew stores or online.
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Filtered water – to avoid any off-flavours.
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A carbonation method – soda siphon, home seltzer maker, or a CO2 keg system.
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Optional additions – citrus peel, mint, ginger, or herbs for extra flavour.
The basic method:
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Steep the hops in cold water for several hours (or overnight) to extract the oils.
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Strain the liquid to remove the plant matter.
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Carbonate the remaining water.
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Chill, serve, and enjoy.
Pro tip: Go easy on the hops. A little goes a long way, and overdoing it can result in overly bitter, astringent flavours. Experiment with small batches until you find your ideal hop level.
While it’s a fun experiment, many people find that grabbing a professionally brewed hop water from a trusted brand offers better consistency and balance—especially when you're just getting started.
Is Hop Water Right For You?
Who Should Try Hop Water?
The beauty of hop water is that it really is for everyone. Whether you're cutting back, cutting out, or just curious about new beverage trends, hop water has a place in your routine.
It’s especially great for:
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People reducing or eliminating alcohol
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Wellness-focused individuals
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Designated drivers
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Athletes and fitness enthusiasts
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Busy professionals looking for a smarter workday drink
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Soda quitters who still crave something bold and fizzy
The only people who might not fall in love at first sip? Those who strongly dislike bitterness or herbal flavours. But with so many varieties on the market—from juicy and fruity to light and floral—there’s a good chance you’ll find one that clicks.
Where To Buy Hop Water
Ready to hop on the hop water train? You’re in luck. At Søbr Market, we carry one of the most curated selections of hop waters in Canada.
You can shop online 24/7 or visit us in-store at our locations in Toronto and Winnipeg, with more storefronts coming soon. We feature a rotating lineup of the top brands in the space—from small-batch local makers to innovative global favourites.
Looking for citrusy and bright? We've got it. Something herbal or tropical? Yup. Functional ingredients or single-hop varieties? You bet.
Whether you’re exploring the scene or stocking up on your new go-to, we’ve got something crisp and refreshing waiting for you.
Final Thoughts
Hop water is more than just a passing trend—it’s a beverage revolution. With clean ingredients, complex flavours, and a wellness-forward vibe, it’s exactly what today’s mindful drinkers are looking for.
It’s not about what you’re giving up. It’s about what you’re choosing: More clarity, more flavour, more intention. Whether you're a longtime beer fan, a sober-curious explorer, or just someone looking for a better bubbly, hop water delivers.
So grab a can, take a sip, and raise a glass to the refreshing future of drinking—no buzz necessary.
Cheers to that.
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