I Tried All Of Bluebird Hardwater’s New Flavors: Here’s What I Think

As someone who’s spent years covering the ever-expanding list of alcoholic beverages on the market, I’ve encountered a number of “new” products that were straightforward to the point where I was shocked no one had come up with them sooner.

It’s safe to say Bluebird Hardwater fits that bill.

Bluebird Hardwater is the textbook definition of “brilliant in its simplicity,” as each can boasts just a handful of ingredients (vodka or tequila, ultra-purified water, and real fruit juice) that comprise the 4.5% ABV drink that clocks in at just 88 calories.

The initial iterations of Hardwater were even more barebones (consisting of just a spirit and some H₂O), but the brand recently branched out with a new line of drinks that take things to the next level with the help of the fruit flavors that have introduced a new twist into the equation.

How do they measure up? Well, I got the chance to try all four of them to answer that very question…

Bluebird Hardwater Vodka Lime

Vodka and lime is probably the most classic combination featured in this quartet, and while you might think it would be hard to screw up, I’ve unfortunately encountered more than a few bartenders in my day who somehow managed to do exactly that.

Thankfully, Hardwater passed this test with flying colors. It’s very obvious real lime juice was harnessed here, and even though the lack of carbonation caught me slightly off guard due to my affinity for vodka sodas with a wedge of green citrus, I can firmly say this is a very refreshing alternative.

Bluebird Hardwater Vodka Cranberry

I had pretty high expectations for the Vodka Cranberry version of Hardwater, as that combo is one of my go-to options when I’m in the mood for a straightforward and relatively low-calorie mixed drink that doesn’t rely on a wedge of fruit for its flavor.

I’m happy to report I was not let down.

The first sip (and every single one that followed) was absolutely bursting with pleasantly tart cranberry, and this is one of those situations where I’m glad I was aware there was vodka in a can I probably would’ve made my way through much, much quicker without that knowledge based on how tasty it was.

Bluebird Hardwater  Tequila Lime

As I alluded to above, the neutral nature of the vodka Hardwater uses means it’s kind of easy to forget you’re consuming an alcoholic beverage, and if you want to be reminded that’s the case, then the tequila options are going to be more up your alley.

The spirit’s signature aroma is front and center when you pop open a can, and it’s very present on the palate along with the lime that helps make this offering a dynamic duo defined by their ideal harmony.

Bluebird Hardwater Tequila Pineapple

This is probably the most unconventional of the four flavors, but it also ended up being my favorite of the bunch.

I’ve found pineapple can be pretty hit-or-miss based on other canned libations I’ve had in the past, but Hardwater knocks this one out of the park with an offering where the tropical fruit takes center stage.

That’s not to say the tequila takes a backseat, as the signature agave notes serve as the backbone to an incredibly well-rounded and refreshing drink that is seemingly designed for a hot summer day.