Hocus Pocus Hard Seltzer Puts a Spooky Spin on the Seltzer Craze

The Rise of Hocus Pocus Hard Seltzer

Hard seltzers have become incredibly popular in recent years. These fizzy, flavored malt beverages are lower in calories and carbohydrates than beer but can have a similar alcohol content. Major brands like White Claw, Truly, and Bon & Viv have made seltzers a go-to drink choice for many. Now, craft brands are getting into the mix with unique flavors and whimsical branding. One such brand is Hocus Pocus Hard Seltzer.

The Story Behind Hocus Pocus Hard Seltzer

Hocus Pocus Hard Seltzer was founded in 2021 by a husband and wife team in Pittsburgh, PA. They took inspiration from the classic 1993 Halloween film "Hocus Pocus" starring Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy as the delightfully wicked Sanderson sisters. With fun potion-themed flavors and gothic branding, Hocus Pocus Hard Seltzer aims to put a spooky twist on an already trendy drink category.

The founders were homebrewers and wanted to take their craft to the next level. After noticing the lack of Halloween-themed seltzers on the market, they saw an opportunity to fill that gap. Using natural flavors and a sessionable 4.5% ABV, they formulated the recipes for flavors like Black Flame, Witch's Brew, and Trick or Treat. The 12-ounce slim cans feature striking designs with the Sanderson sisters and other imagery from the cult classic film.

Why Seltzers Have Become So Popular

Hard seltzers are having a major moment right now for a variety of reasons. First, they are an easy-drinking, lighter alternative to beer, wine, and cocktails. Seltzers are around 100 calories per can, whereas a light beer may have closer to 150 calories. For health-conscious consumers looking to imbibe without going overboard on calories, seltzers are an appealing option.

The convenience factor also makes seltzers a hit. They are portable and come in slim cans that can be taken anywhere from the beach to barbecues to camping trips. No need for a bottle opener or glassware - just crack one open and enjoy.

Another big draw is the variety of flavors available. Major seltzer brands have expanded from old standbys like lime and grapefruit to more unique options like mango, cherry, passionfruit, and more. There are flavors for every palate so drinkers don't get bored. Craft seltzers like Hocus Pocus take it a step further with flavors inspired by favorite treats and cocktails.

Hocus Pocus Flavor Lineup

Currently, Hocus Pocus Hard Seltzer comes in a core lineup of five flavor "spells":

• Black Flame - A spooky blend of black cherry and toasted marshmallow.
• Witch's Brew - A bubbling cauldron of cranberry, pomegranate, and hibiscus.
• Trick or Treat - Childhood favorites orange creamsicle and root beer swirled together.
• Hallow's Eve - Sweet-tart apple pie with notes of cinnamon and nutmeg.
• Book of Spells - An enchanting mix of mixed berry, lemon, and sage.

Limited edition seasonal flavors are also in the works for release around Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. These special brews will showcase ingredients and profiles tied to each holiday theme.

Why Seltzer Fans Will Love Hocus Pocus

While the flavors are the star of the show, Hocus Pocus offers more than just innovative potion recipes. They've crafted an entire brand identity modeled after the mischievous Sanderson sisters who put a spell on viewers back in 1993.

For superfans of the film, the cans alone will give them a major dose of nostalgia. Each design prominently features one of the sisters along with memorable quotes, props, and locations from the movie. Even the flavor names are nods to iconic scenes and lines. Photos of the products posted online prove they make for prime Instagram and TikTok content.

Beyond the packaging, Hocus Pocus plans to fully lean into the Halloween theme all year long on social media and at live events. Followers can expect costume contests, themed trivia nights, cameo giveaways, and more spooky fun. Whether sipping Witch's Brew at home or at a branded party, fans can immerse themselves in the magical world of Hocus Pocus.

How Seltzer Lovers Can Get Their Hands on Hocus Pocus

For now, Hocus Pocus Hard Seltzer is only available in the Pittsburgh area at select bars, restaurants, and bottle shops. Local delivery is also available through their website for those located nearby. However, the founders hope to expand distribution if initial reception is positive.

Beyond Pittsburgh, out-of-state fans can get Hocus Pocus merchandise including t-shirts, tumblers, hats, and posters on the company's Etsy shop. They offer a fun way for people across the country to show their love of the boozy brand. The products all feature iconic imagery from the Hocus Pocus film to display your fandom.

For those not located in PA, the best way to try Hocus Pocus Hard Seltzer is to enter giveaways on their Instagram and Facebook pages. Leading up to Halloween, they plan to run several contests awarding a variety pack sampler to a few lucky winners. So if you can't find it nearby, social sweepstakes provide another chance to taste test the potion-inspired flavors.

What the Future Holds for Hocus Pocus Hard Seltzer

The response to Hocus Pocus Hard Seltzer so far from testers and early adopters has been positive. While a niche Halloween-themed seltzer may have seemed risky at first, the founders' instincts appear correct so far. Fans are embracing the Sanderson sisters-inspired brews and branding.

However, competing in the exploding seltzer marketplace still presents challenges. Hocus Pocus will need to find ways to differentiate itself beyond theming and make the liquid inside the cans stand out. One way they plan to accomplish this is by partnering with local organizations to give back to the Pittsburgh community.

Eventual expansion to more cities and states is not out of the question if production capacity allows. For now though, the focus remains on winning over drinkers in their home market first. Once established as a regional favorite, broader distribution could spread the spooky spirit coast to coast.

No matter what the future holds, Hocus Pocus Hard Seltzer has already succeeded in providing a new way for fans to connect with a cult classic film. Their passion for the movie inspires the potion-based flavors, sinister can art, and commitment to creating a fun and inclusive brand. While witchcraft isn't real, this magical hard seltzer has certainly cast a spell on its drinkers.

FAQs

Where can I buy Hocus Pocus Hard Seltzer?

Currently, Hocus Pocus Hard Seltzer is only available in the Pittsburgh, PA area at select bars, restaurants, and bottle shops. It can also be purchased online for local delivery through the Hocus Pocus website if you live nearby.

What flavors does Hocus Pocus Hard Seltzer come in?

The core lineup includes Black Flame, Witch's Brew, Trick or Treat, Hallow's Eve, and Book of Spells. Seasonal and limited edition flavors are released around Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

Where does the name Hocus Pocus come from?

Hocus Pocus Hard Seltzer takes its name and branding inspiration from the 1993 Halloween cult classic film Hocus Pocus starring Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy.

What is the alcohol content of Hocus Pocus Hard Seltzer?

Each 12 oz can of Hocus Pocus Hard Seltzer contains 4.5% alcohol by volume, which is standard for most hard seltzers on the market.

Does Hocus Pocus Hard Seltzer ship nationwide?

No, Hocus Pocus Hard Seltzer does not currently ship outside of the Pittsburgh area. However, they do ship Hocus Pocus merchandise like tumblers, shirts, and hats nationwide through their Etsy shop.