Mike’s Hard Lemonade is not made with vodka. When the brand first launched in Canada in 1996, it did contain vodka along with natural juices and soda water. However, when it made its way to the United States in 1999, the recipe was changed and the vodka was swapped out for a malt base.
The decision to switch from vodka to a malt base was likely made for a few reasons. First, using a malt base allows Mike’s Hard Lemonade to be classified as a flavored malt beverage rather than a distilled spirit, which may have regulatory and tax advantages. Additionally, using a malt base makes the product more accessible to a wider audience, as some people may prefer the taste of malt over vodka.
Malt beverages are made by fermenting grains like barley, whereas vodka is typically made through distillation. This difference in production methods results in different flavors and characteristics. Vodka is known for its neutral taste, while malt beverages often have a sweeter, maltier flavor profile.
It’s worth noting that the term “hard lemonade” is often used to refer to alcoholic lemonade beverages, regardless of whether they contain vodka or a malt base. Mike’s Hard Lemonade was one of the pioneers in this category, and its success has led to a variety of other brands offering similar products.
Mike’s Hard Lemonade is not vodka. While it initially contained vodka when it launched in Canada, the recipe was later changed to use a malt base when it entered the US market. This change in ingredients likely allowed for regulatory and taste considerations.