When you reach for your favorite carbonated water, whether to wash down your wings or make a refreshing cocktail, do you choose tonic or club soda? Perhaps you have always used one over the other, but have never really thought about why? Many people believe they are the same thing, while many others will vehemently argue that they are polar opposites.
To clear us the confusion once and for all, and maybe even impress your friends during the next round, continue below to learn the difference between tonic water and soda water.
Soda Water and Seltzer
Seltzer water is simply plain soda water. Club soda, on the other hand, is soda water that contains a bit of sodium, usually salt, and sometimes a few other additives. But it does not contain any sugar. It is a flavorless carbonated water commonly used to make cocktails like vodka sodas and scotch and sodas. But soda water has taken a new turn in the last few years, and is a now a very popular beverage available in a wide range of flavors, some of which are still sugar-free, while others contain added sugars or artificial sweeteners. You can enjoy them alone or mixed into a delicious cocktail!
12 Ounce Serving of Soda Water:
⇢ Carbs = 0
⇢ Sugar = 0
⇢ Calories = 0
Tonic Water
Tonic water is a type of soda water, but it is not tasteless nor sugar-free. Tonic water has a distinct flavor, one that is typically described as bitter and dry. Its flavor is produced by ingredients like quinine and various natural botanicals, such as citrus peels and oils, elderflower, ginger, cinnamon, and lavender. This is why it is often paired with botanical liquors like gin and vodka. Furthermore, tonic water contains sugar; although just a smidge, it makes a big difference in taste. Tonic water can contain up to 30 grams of sugar in a 12 ounce serving.
12 Ounce Serving of Tonic Water:
⇢ Carbs = 30
⇢ Sugar = Up to 30 grams
⇢ Calories = 115
Facts About Quinine
Quinine is a primary ingredient in tonic water. It is a natural alkaloid unearthed from red or yellow cinchona bark, which is also referred to as Peruvian bark. Did you know quinine will glow under a black light? It’s true! Ancient peoples used it for medicinal purposes, which is how the Europeans began calling it tonic water. WARNING: Consuming too much quinine can cause toxicity. Talk to your doctor before taking supplements of any kind.
Are you craving an ice cold vodka soda or gin and tonic? Contact English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to hear about the delicious Effen Vodka and Absolut Vodka drink specials we offer at our Downtown Indianapolis bar and restaurant! We also serve a wide range of liquors, wine, beer, and a full lunch and dinner menu!
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