The Difference Between Club Soda and Sparkling Water

The Difference Between Club Soda and Sparkling Water

Approaching holidays and entertainment opportunities are imminent. Hosting often entails bar tending where knowledge of specific refreshment ingredients is critical. Mostly, it is important to know what is critical and what is not. What would not make a difference if used as a substitute and what would make a big difference. Also important is why seemingly insignificant things are so meaningful when it comes to tending bar or serving guests. Knowing the difference between club soda and sparkling waters will please guests and give amateur bartenders a great opportunity to strut their stuff. 

Although club soda on the rocks looks the same as an unflavored sparkling water on the rocks, many can tell the difference in taste. Club soda is carbonated water, potassium bicarbonate and potassium sulfate. Some club sodas are “sodium free” but still contain potassium bicarbonate and those who care will notice a faint taste of baking soda that is said to give club soda a little “zip.” Many do not notice any difference. A defining characteristic of club soda is the way it is carbonated. Club soda is carbonated by a pump impregnating the water with fixed air. Bartenders impregnate water with fixed air by using a soda siphon which pumps air into the water and makes it fizz. Club soda connoisseurs prefer the more mild carbonation of club soda over other sparkling waters. 

Sparkling water is water carbonated either naturally or artificially and is also known as seltzer water, soda water or just carbonated water. Natural sparkling waters receive their effervescence naturally from carbon dioxide that is in the spring where the water originated. Natural sparkling waters have a mineral or earthy flavor noticed by some and these waters are also called mineral waters.

Naturally induced sparkling water has effervescence which is caused by a natural process that must be induced by human behavior. Natural inducement can happen with the fermentation process of yeast mixing with sugar and creating a gas which would carbonate the water and also add other flavors. Sparkling water that is compared with and used in place of club soda would not be naturally induced, it would either be natural carbonation from carbon dioxide in spring water or artificially carbonated. 

Both club soda and sparkling water are interchanged all the time. Carbonated waters are a pleasant way to stay hydrated and the carbonation aids digestion and soothes upset stomachs with the activity created by the gas bubbles. The sodium content in club soda is so minimal that it is not worth mentioning except in taste. 

A well-equipped bar would include both club soda that is bottled and unflavored sparkling water either bottled or from a dispenser. Club soda is a t raditional mixer for cocktails known as “highballs” which are mixed drinks with an alcoholic spirit and a large amount of nonalcoholic mixer, most often club soda or sparkling water. The large amount of mixer calls for a taller glass which is why these cocktails are named highballs. The original highball was most likely scotch whiskey and carbonated water which is now commonly ordered as a “Scotch and Soda,” either tall or short. 

Also included in a well-equipped bar would be sparkling soda that is not flavored but can be presented in a more festive manner with a cherry, lemon slice or lime twist. A special sparkling water is a wonderful way to refresh and indulge without calories or alcohol. Imported sparkling waters served with the bottle and a glass of ice is common if the sparkling water is a special variety. 

For those who really care about the difference between club soda and sparkling water, a knowledgeable host or bartender is impressive.  

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