black cherry white claw vodka is a canned vodka soda flavored with black cherry, built around White Claw’s vodka, sparkling water, and a fruit-forward profile rather than malt-based hard seltzer.
It typically targets a lighter ready-to-drink format: crisp carbonation, clean vodka character, and a sweet-tart cherry finish.
This guide explains what it is, how it tastes, how it compares with Black Cherry White Claw Hard Seltzer, and what to check on the label before buying.
Expect practical details on alcohol content, calories, serving temperature, food pairings, and where it fits among vodka sodas, canned cocktails, and flavored sparkling alcoholic drinks.
Black Cherry White Claw Vodka Explained
White Claw Vodka + Soda Black Cherry launched in 2022 as part of White Claw’s expansion beyond hard seltzer into the spirits-based ready-to-drink category. It pairs triple-wave-filtered vodka with black cherry flavoring and carbonated water.
Key Product Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
| ABV | 5% |
| Calories per 12 oz can | 100 |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0 g |
| Gluten | Gluten-free |
| Base spirit | Triple-wave-filtered vodka |
| Parent company | Mark Anthony Brands International |
How It Differs from White Claw Hard Seltzer
The original White Claw Hard Seltzer uses a fermented sugar base, not distilled spirits. The Vodka + Soda line uses actual vodka as its alcohol source, which changes the flavor profile and mouthfeel.
| Feature | Hard Seltzer (Black Cherry) | Vodka + Soda (Black Cherry) |
| Alcohol base | Fermented cane sugar | Distilled vodka |
| ABV | 5% | 5% |
| Calories | 100 | 100 |
| Sugar | 2 g | 0 g |
| Carbs | 2 g | 0 g |
The vodka version eliminates sugar entirely while matching the same calorie count and ABV. That zero-sugar profile targets consumers specifically tracking carbohydrate intake.
Tasting Profile
Black cherry delivers a tart, slightly sweet stone-fruit flavor without residual sweetness from sugar. The vodka base provides a cleaner, more neutral backdrop than the fermented malt or sugar bases found in competing seltzers.
- Aroma: Ripe black cherry with subtle vanilla undertones
- Palate: Crisp carbonation, tart cherry, dry finish
- Best served: Chilled at 35–40°F directly from the can or poured over ice
Availability and Format
Black Cherry is sold individually and as part of variety packs containing other Vodka + Soda flavors like Peach, Pineapple, and Wild Cherry. Standard packaging includes slim 12 oz cans in 4-packs and 8-packs.
Retail pricing typically ranges from $9.99 to $12.99 for a 4-pack depending on state and retailer. Distribution covers all 50 U.S. states through Mark Anthony Brands’ existing network.
Flavor Profile and Ingredient Breakdown
White Claw Vodka + Soda Black Cherry delivers a drier, more spirit-forward profile than the original hard seltzer line.
Built on triple-distilled vodka rather than fermented sugar, it targets drinkers who want clean flavor without malt-liquor sweetness.
Each 12 oz slim can contains a straightforward nutritional profile worth examining against the original hard seltzer version.
| Attribute | Vodka + Soda Black Cherry | Original Hard Seltzer Black Cherry |
| ABV | 4.5% | 5.0% |
| Calories | 100 | 100 |
| Sugar | 0 g | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0 g | 2 g |
| Base spirit | Triple-distilled vodka | Fermented sugar base (malt alternative) |
| Gluten status | Gluten-free | Gluten-free |
The zero-sugar, zero-carb formula is the standout differentiator. White Claw achieves this by using vodka as the alcohol source and relying entirely on natural flavors for the black cherry taste.
Tasting Notes
The aroma opens with ripe dark cherry, leaning toward Bing cherry rather than artificial maraschino. Carbonation is moderate — less aggressive than a Topo Chico, closer to a European sparkling water.
On the palate, expect a crisp vodka backbone with subtle stone-fruit sweetness that fades quickly. The finish is clean and dry with no lingering syrupy residue, a direct result of the zero-sugar formulation.
Ingredient Composition
The listed ingredients are minimal:
- Purified carbonated water — the primary ingredient by volume
- Triple-distilled vodka — distilled from corn, contributing to the gluten-free status
- Natural black cherry flavor — no artificial sweeteners, colors, or flavors used
Mark Anthony Brands, White Claw’s parent company, does not disclose its specific natural flavor sources. The “triple-distilled” claim refers to a proprietary process designed to remove congeners and produce a neutral spirit base.
Compared to competitors like High Noon (which uses real fruit juice and contains 4 g of sugar per can), White Claw’s vodka soda sacrifices juice-derived authenticity for a leaner nutritional label.
That trade-off defines its target market: calorie-conscious drinkers who prioritize macros over fruit-forward complexity.
Alcohol Content Compared With White Claw
White Claw Vodka Soda Black Cherry contains 4.5% ABV, matching most flavors in the vodka soda lineup. This sits notably lower than the original White Claw Hard Seltzer at 5% ABV, a distinction that catches many buyers off guard.
The difference stems from formulation. White Claw Hard Seltzer uses a fermented sugar base, while the Vodka Soda line starts with triple-distilled spirits blended with soda water and real juice.
| Product | ABV | Calories | Sugar | Base Alcohol |
| White Claw Vodka Soda Black Cherry | 4.5% | 100 | 0 g | Triple-distilled vodka |
| White Claw Hard Seltzer Black Cherry | 5.0% | 100 | 2 g | Fermented sugar base |
| White Claw Surge Black Cherry | 8.0% | 220 | 2 g | Fermented sugar base |
| White Claw 0% Black Cherry | 0.0% | 20 | 3 g | Non-alcoholic |
At 4.5% ABV, a standard 12 oz can of the Vodka Soda Black Cherry delivers approximately 0.54 oz of pure alcohol — roughly 0.8 standard drinks per can.
The Surge line at 8% ABV contains nearly double the alcohol of the Vodka Soda version. Consumers switching between these products should track intake carefully.
Why the Lower ABV Matters
Mark Anthony Brands designed the Vodka Soda line for sessionability. Lower ABV pairs with zero sugar and 100 calories to target health-conscious drinkers who want a spirits-based option.
Competing vodka sodas from other brands typically range from 4.5% to 5% ABV:
- High Noon Sun Sips: 4.5% ABV, 100 calories per can
- Smirnoff Ice Smash: 8.0% ABV, significantly higher calorie count
- Nutrl Vodka Soda: 5.0% ABV, 100 calories per can
- Absolut Vodka Soda: 5.0% ABV, 100 calories per can
The 0.5% gap between White Claw Vodka Soda and its hard seltzer sibling translates to roughly one fewer gram of alcohol per can. Over a four-pack, that difference equals about half a standard drink.
For consumers prioritizing zero sugar without sacrificing a vodka base, the Black Cherry Vodka Soda occupies a specific niche that the original hard seltzer line does not fill.
Best Mixers for Cherry Vodka
Black Cherry White Claw Vodka + Soda (70 calories per 12 oz can) already pairs cherry vodka with seltzer, but building your own cocktails unlocks far more flavor range. The right mixer balances the 30g/L residual sweetness typical of flavored vodkas.
Top Mixer Pairings by Flavor Profile
| Mixer | Ratio (Vodka:Mixer) | Calories per Serving | Flavor Match |
| Club soda + lime wedge | 1:3 | ~97 | Clean, lets cherry shine |
| Lemon-lime soda | 1:2 | ~195 | Sweet-tart, crowd-pleasing |
| Ginger beer | 1:3 | ~170 | Spicy contrast, mule-style |
| Cranberry juice | 1:3 | ~155 | Tart berry depth |
| Pineapple juice | 1:2 | ~185 | Tropical-sweet, tiki-adjacent |
| Cola | 1:3 | ~165 | Cherry cola nostalgia |
| Tonic water | 1:3 | ~145 | Bitter-sweet balance |
Calorie estimates assume 1.5 oz of 80-proof vodka (97 calories) combined with the listed mixer volume in a standard 8–10 oz highball glass.
Carbonated Mixers
Club soda remains the lowest-calorie option at 0 calories per 8 oz. It preserves the cherry character without added sugar. A squeeze of fresh lime adds 1 calorie and brightens acidity.
Ginger beer intensifies complexity. Fever-Tree and Q Mixers both contain real ginger root, contributing 80–90 calories per 7 oz bottle. The spice-forward burn contrasts cherry sweetness effectively.
Juice-Based Mixers
Cranberry juice cocktail (Ocean Spray, 110 calories per 8 oz) creates a cherry-cranberry hybrid with natural tartness. Use 100% juice versions to cut sugar by roughly 40%.
Pineapple juice adds bromelain enzyme and tropical acidity. Dole 100% pineapple juice delivers 130 calories per 8 oz. The pH of 3.5 complements cherry’s natural acidity around pH 3.2–3.8.
Mixers to Avoid
- Orange juice — citrus oils clash with artificial cherry flavoring, creating a medicinal aftertaste
- Energy drinks — the CDC warns against mixing alcohol with caffeine, and the combined sweetness exceeds 45g sugar per serving
- Milk or cream — acidity in cherry flavoring can curdle dairy at pH below 4.6
For a balanced serve, maintain a 1:3 vodka-to-mixer ratio. This keeps ABV around 5–6%, matching the sessionable strength White Claw targets across its product line.
Black Cherry Vodka Cocktail Ideas
White Claw Vodka + Soda Black Cherry delivers 100 calories per 12 oz can at 4.5% ABV, making it a ready-to-drink starting point. Pouring it over ice with fresh additions transforms a simple seltzer into a layered cocktail experience.
Simple Build Cocktails
These recipes use White Claw Vodka + Soda Black Cherry as the base, requiring minimal additional ingredients and no shaker.
- Black Cherry Spritz: Pour one 12 oz can over ice, add 1 oz Aperol and a squeeze of fresh lemon. Garnish with a lemon wheel. Total estimated calories: ~170.
- Dark Cherry Mule: Combine one can with 1 oz fresh lime juice and 0.5 oz ginger syrup in a copper mug over crushed ice. Stir 10–12 times.
- Cherry Highball: Add 1 oz bourbon to one can in a Collins glass with ice. The cherry and oak notes complement each other. Stir gently to preserve carbonation.
Shaken Cocktails Using the Vodka Base
White Claw’s vodka line uses triple-wave-filtered spirits made from corn. That neutral profile accepts flavor layering without competing botanicals.
- Cherry Cosmo Riff: Shake 3 oz White Claw Black Cherry Vodka Soda with 0.5 oz Cointreau, 0.5 oz cranberry juice, and 0.75 oz lime juice. Strain into a coupe glass.
- Black Forest Sour: Shake 3 oz of the base with 0.75 oz chocolate liqueur, 0.5 oz lemon juice, and 0.5 oz simple syrup. Top with 1 oz fresh pour from the can for effervescence.
Calorie Comparison per Serving
| Cocktail | Estimated Calories | Approx. ABV |
| Black Cherry Spritz | 170 | 5.5% |
| Dark Cherry Mule | 140 | 4.5% |
| Cherry Highball | 175 | 7% |
| Cherry Cosmo Riff | 160 | 9% |
| Black Forest Sour | 195 | 8% |
Chill the can to 38–40°F before mixing. Carbonation dissipates rapidly above 45°F, reducing the textural lift these drinks depend on.
Garnish matters beyond aesthetics. Fresh Luxardo or Amarena cherries add 10–15 calories each but deliver a concentrated fruit note that reinforces the black cherry base flavor.
Where to Buy Black Cherry Vodka
White Claw Premium Vodka + Soda in Black Cherry is distributed nationally through Mark Anthony Brands’ extensive retail network.
Availability spans major grocery chains, liquor stores, and online alcohol delivery platforms across most U.S. states.
Retail Pricing by Pack Size
| Format | Size | Typical Price Range |
| Single can | 12 oz | $2.49–$3.49 |
| 4-pack slim cans | 12 oz each | $9.99–$12.99 |
| 8-pack slim cans | 12 oz each | $17.99–$21.99 |
| Variety pack (includes Black Cherry) | 8 × 12 oz | $17.99–$22.99 |
Prices vary by state due to differing alcohol excise taxes. States like Wyoming and Missouri sit at the lower end; New York and Washington trend higher.
Major Brick-and-Mortar Retailers
- Total Wine & More — 260+ locations across 27 states regularly stock the full White Claw Vodka + Soda lineup
- BevMo! — West Coast availability in California, Arizona, and Washington stores
- Walmart — Sold in Walmart Supercenter locations in states permitting grocery-store spirits sales
- Target — Available in stores with dedicated wine and spirits sections
- Kroger and affiliates — Stocked in states like Ohio, Texas, and Georgia where grocery liquor sales are legal
Online Delivery Options
Drizly, Instacart, and GoPuff deliver White Claw Vodka + Soda Black Cherry in eligible zip codes, typically within 60 minutes for on-demand orders.
- Drizly — Partners with local retailers in 1,400+ cities; search by flavor and format
- ReserveBar — Ships directly in select states with flat-rate shipping around $5–$10
- Minibar Delivery — Same-day delivery available in most major metro areas
Check your state’s alcohol shipping laws before ordering online. States like Utah, Mississippi, and Alabama restrict or prohibit direct-to-consumer alcohol delivery entirely.
Stock-Check Tip
Use the store locator on whiteclaw.com to verify Black Cherry Vodka + Soda availability at retailers near your zip code. Inventory updates reflect current distributor data, reducing wasted trips.
Storage Tips and Serving Suggestions
White Claw Vodka + Soda Black Cherry performs best when served cold at 35–38°F.
Proper storage preserves carbonation and flavor integrity, while thoughtful serving elevates this 100-calorie ready-to-drink cocktail beyond a simple grab-and-go experience.
Optimal Storage Conditions
Store cans upright in a refrigerator or cool, dark location. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or temperatures above 75°F, which degrade flavor compounds and weaken carbonation.
| Storage Method | Ideal Temp Range | Recommended Duration |
| Refrigerator | 35–38°F | Up to 9 months |
| Cooler with ice | 32–40°F | 4–8 hours |
| Room temperature pantry | 60–70°F | Up to 6 months |
| Freezer (not recommended) | Below 32°F | Avoid — can expansion risk |
White Claw Vodka + Soda contains 4.5% ABV, lower than most wines and spirits. The shelf-stable formula doesn’t require refrigeration before opening but tastes significantly better chilled.
Serving Recommendations
Drink directly from the 12 oz can for convenience, or pour over ice in a highball glass to maintain temperature longer during outdoor gatherings.
- Garnish with fresh dark cherries — 2–3 pitted Bing cherries amplify the black cherry profile and add visual appeal.
- Add a lime wedge — a quarter-lime squeeze introduces citrus acidity that balances the cherry sweetness.
- Pair with charcuterie — the clean vodka base and fruit notes complement aged cheeses, prosciutto, and dark chocolate.
- Float frozen berries — drop 4–5 frozen blackberries or cherries into the glass as edible ice cubes that keep the drink cold without dilution.
What to Avoid
Never freeze cans. The liquid expands and may rupture the aluminum. Avoid mixing with high-sugar juices — this defeats the zero-sugar formulation White Claw built into the product.
Once opened or poured, consume within 20–30 minutes. Carbonation loss accelerates rapidly after the seal breaks, diminishing the crisp mouthfeel that defines the drinking experience.
Common Questions
What is Black Cherry White Claw Vodka + Soda?
Black Cherry is a flavor in the White Claw Vodka + Soda line, which launched in 2023 as the brand’s entry into the spirits-based ready-to-drink category.
Each 12 oz can contains vodka sourced from White Claw’s proprietary Triple Wave Filtered spirit blended with sparkling water and natural black cherry flavor. It sits at 100 calories per can with zero sugar and zero carbs.
What is the ABV of Black Cherry White Claw Vodka + Soda?
Black Cherry White Claw Vodka + Soda has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 4.5%. This is comparable to many light beers and slightly lower than the original White Claw Hard Seltzer, which clocks in at 5% ABV.
How does Black Cherry White Claw Vodka differ from Black Cherry White Claw Hard Seltzer?
The key difference is the alcohol base: the Vodka + Soda version uses a triple-wave-filtered vodka distilled from corn, while the original Hard Seltzer uses a gluten-free fermented sugar base.
The vodka version also has a slightly lower ABV at 4.5% compared to 5% and delivers a noticeably cleaner, more neutral spirit character that lets the black cherry flavor come forward with less residual sweetness.
What does Black Cherry White Claw Vodka + Soda taste like?
The flavor profile leads with a tart, dark-fruit cherry note reminiscent of Bing or Montmorency cherry rather than artificial maraschino sweetness.
Because the base is vodka and soda rather than a malt or sugar-fermented drink, the finish is drier and crisper. Most tasters note very little lingering sweetness, which makes it closer to a vodka-soda you’d mix at a bar.
How many calories and carbs are in a can?
Each 12 oz can of Black Cherry White Claw Vodka + Soda contains 100 calories, 0 grams of sugar, and 0 grams of carbohydrates.
This positions it as one of the lowest-calorie options in the spirits-based RTD segment, on par with competitors like High Noon (100 calories) and below Cutwater Vodka Soda (roughly 110 calories).
Is Black Cherry White Claw Vodka + Soda gluten-free?
Yes. The vodka is distilled from corn, and the distillation process removes gluten proteins, making the final product gluten-free.
White Claw markets the entire Vodka + Soda line as gluten-free, consistent with TTB guidelines for distilled spirits made from gluten-containing grains.
Where can you buy Black Cherry White Claw Vodka + Soda and what does it cost?
It is available nationwide at major retailers including Total Wine, BevMo, Walmart, Target, and most grocery chains with a spirits or beer-and-wine license.
A standard 8-pack of 12 oz cans typically retails between $15.99 and $19.99 depending on the market. It can also be found in variety packs alongside other White Claw Vodka + Soda flavors like Peach, Wild Cherry, and Pineapple.
What food pairs well with Black Cherry White Claw Vodka + Soda?
The tart cherry profile and dry, carbonated finish make it a strong match for charcuterie boards featuring aged cheddar, prosciutto, and fig jam, where the fruit note complements the savory richness.
It also pairs effectively with grilled poultry, barbecue sliders, or dark-chocolate desserts—the cherry acidity cuts through fat while the zero-sugar base avoids competing sweetness.
Serve it well-chilled at 35–38°F for the crispest pairing experience.
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- All Alcohol Guides
- White Claw Official Product Page (2024)
- TTB – Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, Beverage Alcohol Manual (2024)
- FDA – Code of Federal Regulations Title 21: Food Labeling of Ingredients (2024)
- USDA FoodData Central – Vodka Nutrient Profile (2024)
- NIH NIAAA – What Is a Standard Drink? (2024)
- CDC – Alcohol Use and Your Health (2024)
- PubMed – Ethanol Metabolism and Health Effects (Cederbaum, 2012)
- Cornell University – Flavoring Compounds in Cherry Fruits (2005)
- Alcohol Research: Current Reviews – Calories and Alcohol (2015)
