Gravity Drinks has launched an RTD vodka and limoncello range that contains only 0.3 grams of sugar and 114 calories which is big news if you’ll looking to cut down on the sweet stuff while hitting the hard stuff. 

At 5 percent ABV, the blend of five-time distilled vodka drink is inspired by the Amalfi coast with lemon zest, light sparkling soda, and a low-calorie count. Why is this such a big deal? Well, because it’s nice to have a lemon-flavoured RTD that isn’t absolutely packed with sugar.

Not long ago, Hard Solo – an alcoholic version of the classic lemon-flavoured soft drink – caused a stir when it splashed onto the market. Not only was it so borderline in its marketing that a new name was required (it’s now called Hard Rated but in our hearts, we know the One True Name) but the sugar content of the drink left consumers shocked.

A can of Hard Rated contains 43.1 grams of sugar – a can of Coca-Cola contains 39 – a number that was hidden from customers until pressure was placed on the company to be more transparent amid its scandal. 

The sugar content wasn’t necessarily hidden by Solo for nefarious reasons though. In Australia, most food and beverage products require a Nutrition Information Panel (NIP) on packaging so that buyers can make informed decisions relating to their health. 

Alcoholic beverages are exempt from the NIP requirement because logic dictates that anything boozy probably isn’t going to be good for you, and that the presence of an NIP could mislead consumers about the nutritional value of alcoholic beverages.

Drink companies can opt-in to display a Nutrition Information Panel if they want to, and generally only will if they’re proud of their low sugar numbers.

Related story: 56 recipes that make the most of the magic of lemons

What type of alcohol is in limoncello?

Limoncello is usually made by steeping lemon peel in highly concentrated vodka or ethanol. Many recipes call for the peel to be steeped in the vodka for around two weeks before sugar is added and the limoncello is stored for another two weeks. Bellissima! Try our recipe here.

Gravity Vodka+Lemoncello Hard Soda is available now at major retailers and online.

Drink responsibly.

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