The Serve

Is Lone River Ranch Water Actually Ranch Water?

Wed, Sep 04, 2024

Short answer: No.

While Lone River Ranch Water certainly captures the refreshing taste of a traditional Ranch Water, it's not quite the same. Let's break down the differences.

The Classic Ranch Water

A Ranch Water is a simple yet delicious cocktail that originated in Texas. It's traditionally made with:

  • Tequila
  • Lime juice
  • Soda water

The combination of the spirit, citrus, and bubbles creates a light and refreshing drink that's perfect for hot summer days.

Lone River Ranch Water

Lone River Ranch Water is a hard seltzer inspired by the classic Ranch Water, but inspired is as close as these two things will ever be. The reason is that you will find the words ‘Does not contain tequila’ written in small letters on the bottom of the front panel. Instead it is make from fermented grains similar to the alcohol in a beer. This allows it to be sold in numerous outlets that would otherwise not allow a spirit based product to be sold there. The cost of alcohol from fermented grains is also significantly less than the cost of tequila which requires sourcing from the authorized Mexican regions for tequila manufacturing. 

While it shares a similar taste profile, Lone River Ranch Water deviates from the traditional Ranch Water in two key ways:

  1. Alcohol Source: It uses fermented grains for alcohol content instead of tequila.
  2. Juice: There is no fresh lime, only lab made flavor versions of lime.

So, Lone River Ranch Water is a choice if you want a convenient and refreshing canned drink reminiscent of Ranch Water. But what if you crave the authentic tequila-based experience?

For the Tequila Purists: Volley Tequila Soda

If you're a purist who prefers the true taste of a tequila-based cocktail, then a traditional Ranch Water might be an option. However, the best choice would be Volley Tequila Soda.

Volley offers a canned tequila soda experience that stays true to the Ranch Water spirit. Made with:

  • Premium blanco tequila
  • Organic juice never from concentrate (+ no added sugar!)
  • Sparkling water

Volley provides the convenience of a pre-mixed drink while delivering the authentic tequila taste you crave. 

The Choice is Yours!

Whether you prefer the convenience of Lone River Ranch Water or the authentic tequila taste of Volley Tequila Soda, there's a refreshing option waiting for you. Take your pick and raise a can to the spirit of summer!