Understanding Hard Kombucha: Health Benefits, Making, and Taste

Are you enamoured by the tangy, fizzy charm of kombucha? But despite its bold flavour and lauded health benefits, do you yearn for a stronger kick in your fermented tea? Enter hard kombucha, the boozier sibling that perfectly fills this gap. It has turned the heads of health enthusiasts, offering a spirited alternative that doesn't stray too far from its health-conscious roots.

This blog explores the world of hard kombucha, from its nutritional profile and unique taste to whether it's a healthier alternative to other alcoholic beverages. Let's see if hard kombucha fits your lifestyle and becomes your next go-to drink for social gatherings or quiet home evenings!

What is hard kombucha?

Hard kombucha is a fermented drink intentionally brewed to have a higher alcohol content than its traditional counterpart. Like its non-alcoholic sibling, it is made by fermenting sweetened tea with a Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast (SCOBY). But how is it different from regular kombucha? Let's look at the key differences:

• Secondary fermentation: If regular kombucha undergoes secondary fermentation to infuse it with additional flavours, hard kombucha introduces extra sugar and another yeast strain in this stage to increase the alcohol content.

• Alcohol content: Regular kombucha typically contains less than 0.5% ABV (alcohol by volume), making it a non-alcoholic beverage. On the other hand, hard kombucha boasts a significantly higher ABV, generally ranging from 3% to 8%, giving it a distinct identity as an alcoholic drink. It is subject to the same regulations as traditional alcoholic beverages like beer and wine.

• Fermentation duration: It takes about 7-14 days for traditional kombucha to ferment. However, hard kombucha is left to ferment for longer, typically between 18 to 30 days, to elevate the alcohol levels.

Though hard kombucha's added fermentation increases alcohol levels, it retains the fermented tea's unique flavour profile.

Are you curious about how hard kombucha gets that extra boozy oomph? Let's see how it's made!

How is hard kombucha made?

The journey from regular kombucha to its boozy cousin, hard kombucha, begins with a familiar process but takes a detour into extended fermentation. While the initial stages mirror traditional kombucha brewing, the subsequent steps give hard kombucha its signature kick. Let's break down the process:  

• Initial fermentation: Begin by brewing black or green tea and adding sugar. Once the mixture cools, introduce the SCOBY and starter tea. Allow it to ferment for 7-14 days. This primary fermentation creates the base kombucha, which has a characteristic tangy flavour, bubbly texture, and trace amounts of alcohol. 

• Secondary fermentation: Once the initial kombucha is ready, remove the SCOBY. Add more sugar and a specialised yeast strain to the kombucha. Reseal the batch with an airlock lid to encourage another round of fermentation at room temperature for another 7 to 10 days. This is when the magic happens—yeast feasting on sugar in an oxygen-free environment produces the alcohol content that elevates it to hard kombucha.

• Flavouring: Flavoring is an optional yet popular step in making hard kombucha unique. Infuse the fermented tea with fresh fruit juices, herbs, spices, or other natural ingredients. Add dried flowers of the hop plant to achieve a more bitter taste like beer.

• Bottling and carbonation: Once the desired flavour profile is achieved, hard kombucha is filtered to remove any remaining sediment or yeast. It is then carbonated naturally through continued fermentation or by adding carbon dioxide to create its signature fizz.

Finally, the finished hard kombucha is refrigerated to slow down the fermentation process. Properly stored, hard kombucha can be enjoyed for up to two months. The brewing process might take around three weeks from start to finish, and depending on the yeast and sugar ratio, the alcohol content can vary from 3% to 8% ABV.

Are you not sure what happens during fermentation? Watch the video below from The Good Bug to understand more about this process.

Now that you know the brewing secrets, let's relish the taste of hard kombucha!

What does hard kombucha taste like?

Hard kombucha offers a unique and intricate flavour profile that distinguishes it from traditional alcoholic beverages. It is a delightful fusion of familiar kombucha tang with a boozy twist. To truly appreciate its complexity, let's explore the underlying tastes that make hard kombucha so captivating:

• Tanginess: The fermentation process imbues the drink with a signature tangy and tart essence, similar to traditional kombucha. This is due to the production of acetic acid during fermentation. 

• Subtle sweetness: Unlike other excessively sweet alcoholic beverages like wine, hard kombucha has a gentle, underlying current that complements the more robust, tangy notes.

• Boozy: The alcohol content in hard kombucha often introduces a boozy warmth and subtle depth. The continued fermentation can develop and mature the taste as the drink sits, offering a dynamic sipping experience.

• Effervescent: The natural effervescence not only adds a fizzy delight but also accentuates the refreshing qualities of the drink, making it appealing during a crisp afternoon or as a light evening companion.

Hard kombucha might taste bitter for inexperienced drinkers, but it will surely grow on you. One of the most appealing aspects of hard kombucha is its incredible diversity of flavours. From vibrant fruity blends like berry and citrus to more sophisticated herbal and spiced varieties, there's a hard kombucha to tantalise every taste bud.

After exploring all those tasty notes, let's see if it brings any of its original probiotic perks to the table!

Does hard kombucha contain probiotics?

Regular kombucha is known for its potential probiotic content, but the probiotic landscape in hard kombucha is significantly different. Compared to traditional kombucha, hard kombucha generally contains a much lower count of live probiotic bacteria. This is primarily due to the following reasons:

• Higher alcohol content: The increased alcohol levels in hard kombucha create a less hospitable environment for many probiotic strains. Alcohol is, after all, a natural preservative.

• Extended fermentation process: The extended fermentation needed to get the higher ABV also means that the yeast is more dominant, and the bacteria that make up the probiotic cultures are less dominant.

• Filtering and pasteurisation: Some hard kombucha brands may filter or pasteurise their products to stabilise the beverage and prevent further fermentation. These processes can further reduce or eliminate the presence of live probiotics.

While hard kombucha might contain trace amounts of probiotics, its primary appeal lies in its boozy nature and potential as a 'better-for-you' alcoholic alternative. If you're looking for a probiotic boost, stick to regular kombucha or other probiotic-rich foods.

But is it really a healthier choice, or just a deliciously deceitful indulgence?

Is hard kombucha healthy?

Let's be clear: Hard kombucha is an alcoholic beverage, so it shouldn't be considered a health food. However, it can be a better alternative to other alcoholic drinks. Hard kombucha often retains some beneficial compounds in regular kombucha, such as antioxidants, vitamins, acids, enzymes, and probiotics. So, it can be considered healthier than other alcoholic beverages:

• Potential gut health benefits: If the probiotics survive the higher alcohol content, hard kombucha may benefit gut health. Probiotics, or beneficial bacteria, support your gut microbiome, improve digestion, and enhance nutrient absorption. This reduces the risk of bloating, gas, and other digestive troubles.

• Reduce oxidative stress: Hard kombucha contains antioxidants derived from its tea base. These compounds help fight free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body.

• Lower calorie and sugar content: Hard kombucha tends to be lower in calories and sugar than many traditional alcoholic drinks, making it an attractive choice for those mindful of calorie intake.

• Gluten-free: Unlike beer, which is made from wheat or barley, hard kombucha is gluten-free. This feature makes it a suitable alternative for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, who often have limited choices in the alcoholic beverage aisle.

• Diverse range of flavours: Hard kombucha offers various flavours you won't typically find in other alcoholic beverages. Whether you prefer to drink it as it is or use it as a cocktail mixer, hard kombucha allows for a more exciting drinking experience.

• Sustainable and eco-friendly production: Some hard kombucha brands prioritise sustainable practices by using organic, non-GMO ingredients, embracing local sourcing, and committing to recyclable packaging. This environmentally conscious approach contrasts with the resource-heavy production methods of conventional alcoholic beverages.

But remember, hard kombucha is still an alcoholic beverage. While it may offer health-friendly perks over other options, moderation is key. The 'better-for-you' label should not overshadow its nature as an alcoholic drink.

So, how does hard kombucha really stack up against the usual suspects at your local bar?

Hard kombucha vs. other alcoholic beverages

You've likely heard that hard kombucha is a better alcoholic beverage for guilt-free indulgence. But how does it truly compare to the familiar contenders in the world of alcoholic drinks? To give you a clear and unbiased perspective, let's take a closer look at the nutritional profiles of hard kombucha and other popular alcoholic beverages, such as beer, wine, and cocktails.

Hard kombucha strikes a unique balance by offering a lower-calorie, lower-sugar option with a moderate alcohol content compared to other alcoholic drinks. Also, the potential presence of probiotics and antioxidants sets it apart from traditional beer, wine, and cocktails. Always check labels, as nutritional values vary by brand.

How much is too much hard kombucha? Let's move on to its boozy potential!

Can hard kombucha get you drunk?

Hard kombucha is not your typical fizzy tea. Unlike its non-alcoholic counterpart, hard kombucha contains a significantly higher alcohol content. Therefore, sipping 4-5 glasses of hard kombucha daily will surely get you drunk. This can lead to impaired judgment, coordination, and other effects associated with intoxication.

The effects of hard kombucha will depend on several factors:

• Specific ABV of the beverage: The alcohol by volume (ABV) of the beverage varies across different brands and styles. Some hard kombuchas have an ABV comparable to that of beer or wine, making it entirely plausible for someone to feel its intoxicating effects.

• Individual tolerance: Your experience with hard kombucha will also be influenced by personal factors like your body's alcohol tolerance, weight, and metabolism. Just like with any alcoholic drink, how quickly and how much you consume—along with whether you've eaten recently—play significant roles in determining how hard kombucha affects you.

As you sip your way through the world of hard kombucha, do not be swept away by its 'healthier alternative' allure. It is still an alcoholic drink but with a lower calorie and sugar content. It is wise to limit the intake of hard kombucha to one drink per day for women and two for men. Enjoy it in moderation, be mindful of your limits, and prioritise your well-being.

If you wish to savour the unique flavours of kombucha, look no further than The Good Bug. Discover our selection of high-quality, craft-brewed kombucha options tailored to your taste and lifestyle. Visit our website to embrace this gut-friendly goodness and start your wellness journey!

References

https://www.health.com/food/hard-kombucha

https://equinoxkombucha.com/blog/lifestyle/what-is-hard-kombucha/

https://drinkhoochbooch.com/blogs/news/5-reasons-to-choose-hard-kombucha-over-other-alcoholic-beverages

https://juneshine.com/blogs/news/what-is-hard-kombucha-does-it-taste-good