What is club soda supposed to taste like?

Club soda is known for its slightly tart, effervescent, and refreshing taste. It's often described as having a "bite", which comes from the carbonation.

Here's a breakdown of the flavor profile:

* Tartness: This comes from the dissolved carbon dioxide (CO2) that gives club soda its fizz. The CO2 reacts with water to form carbonic acid, which provides a slightly sour flavor.

* Effervescence: This refers to the bubbly, fizzy texture of club soda. The bubbles burst on your tongue, providing a refreshing sensation.

* Minimal sweetness: Unlike soda, club soda doesn't contain any sugar, so it's completely unsweetened.

* Saltiness: Some brands of club soda contain small amounts of minerals like sodium bicarbonate and sodium chloride, which can add a subtle salty note to the taste.

Ultimately, club soda's taste is very subtle and can be easily masked by other ingredients. It's often used as a mixer because it can enhance the flavors of spirits, juices, and other beverages without adding any sweetness.