Canned alcoholic beverages have only grown in popularity over the last few years. The budding category has exploded into craft hard seltzers, while ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails (especially those with tequila) are expected to trend through 2023. What better combination of the two than a canned version of the oh-so-popular Ranch Water? “It seems the younger crowd is still on White Claw and Truly, but customers seem to be gradually changing to canned cocktails with actual spirits like vodka and tequila,” says Kaylee Feldoot, the buyer and bartender at The Lantern in Naperville, Illinois. Jessica Bush, the lead bartender at the Acme Bar in Nashville, adds that sales of canned beverages like Ranch Water have increased two-to-one for guests over poured cocktails. “I think people like [canned Ranch Water] for the flavor,” says Bush. “It's not as sweet. It's a clean, crisp and refreshing beverage instead of something too sugary. And of course, good weather also plays a big part in these sales.” But are there Ranch Water cans worth picking up? We asked the experts. What Is Ranch Water? At its core, Ranch Water is a simple tequila highball. It’s a mixture of tequila, lime juice and sparkling water, making it a tequila-based Rickey. Most recipes recommend using the Mexican mineral water brand Topo Chico for the most authentic flavor. It’s rumored to have been invented by West Texas ranchers, but Ranch Water has grown in popularity over the last year throughout the U.S. In fact, it was Wine Enthusiast’s most popular cocktail recipe of 2022. But whatever the true history of the drink, it’s a typically sugar-free, refreshing cocktail perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. What Is Ranch Water in a Can? Just like other canned cocktails, canned Ranch Water is everything you love about a sparkling, citrusy Ranch Water, but in a convenient can that’s ready for picnics or pool days. The ingredients vary, but typically include lime flavoring or juice, sparkling water and some kind of alcohol. The Best Canned Ranch Waters RANCH2O Painted Donkey Current Spirits Ranch Rider Spirits Topo Chico Lone River Javi’s Waterbird Spirits Madre Mezcal FAQs Where Can I Buy Ranch Water? You can shop anywhere canned cocktails or canned seltzers are sold. Many southern states tend to be better stocked in these brands, because a majority of them are produced in the South. But, many online retailers offer nationwide shipping. Just be sure to know your state’s liquor laws around mailing alcohol. How Do You Make a Ranch Water? The classic Ranch Water is made with tequila, lime juice and sparkling water. Traditional recipes often use Topo Chico as the chosen brand of Mexican mineral water, but you can check out our carbonated water guide for some more ideas. You can also try our classic Ranch Water recipe. Which Ranch Water Is the Best? This is up to you and depends on what kind of flavor profile you’re looking for. Do Ranch Water Cans Have Tequila in Them? This depends on the specific brand. Some brands, like Lone River and Topo Chico, are malt-based and fermented similarly to beer. Others, like Ranch Rider and RANCH20, are tequila-based. You can read more about how hard seltzers are made and what’s really in your canned cocktails. How Much Alcohol Is in a Can of Ranch Water? The total abv varies based on the brand. Most fall between 4% and 7% abv, though some brands can reach as high as 10%.