Dark Wolf Sorbet Seltzer, formerly known as Dark Horse, is a fantastic local creation brewed by Crow and Wolf Brewing Co. in Clovis. While the name has changed over the years, the beverage’s appeal has not. When most people think of a hard seltzer, they picture something relatively dry, lightly flavored, and not particularly sweet. Frankly, those who prefer adult beverages that are more approachable and fruit-forward may struggle to enjoy many of the standard offerings from brands like White Claw. Dark Wolf, however, is a different animal entirely.
Classified as a Sorbet Seltzer, Dark Wolf helps separate itself from the pack. This is not your ordinary hard seltzer, but rather a creamy, decadent beverage that drinks more like a premium wine cooler or a Mike’s Hard Lemonade than the sparkling waters that dominate the seltzer market. The growing use of the term “Sorbet Seltzer” feels especially appropriate because it distinguishes beverages like Dark Wolf from traditional hard seltzers in both flavor and overall drinking experience.
Sweet without becoming overwhelming, Dark Wolf delivers bold fruit flavors (black currant and vanilla) backed by just the right amount of kick. A pleasant touch of tartness keeps the sweetness in check, while a subtle hint of spice rounds everything out and prevents the beverage from becoming one-dimensional. The result is a balanced drink that remains easy to enjoy from the first sip to the last. Fans of House of Pendragon’s Dark Magic, which I reviewed previously, will find plenty to like here. Both beverages lean toward the sweeter end of the spectrum while offering a more dessert-like experience than what most people expect from a hard seltzer. For those looking for something beyond the usual dry and sparkling offerings, Dark Wolf stands out as one of the more unique alcoholic beverages being produced locally.
Try it at Crow & Wolf in Clovis (526 Spruce Ave, Clovis, CA 93611), or if you’re feeling brave, go ahead and just buy a 4 pack, on location or online.
