The 10 Best Cranberry Juice Brands, Ranked Worst To First
Cranberry juice — the often-overlooked, underappreciated drink that deserves its moment in the spotlight. It's a beverage choice that's tart, tangy, and a little bit sassy. But don't let its slightly bitter taste fool you because when paired with the right foods, cranberry juice can bring a deliciously sweet and sour punch to any meal. Sure, it's not as flashy as orange juice or as trendy as kale smoothies, but cranberry has its own unique appeal, whether it's being sipped straight up or mixed into a cocktail.
However, cranberry juice can be a bit polarizing. Some people swear by it, while others cringe at the mere thought. We're here to bridge that gap and unite juice drinkers everywhere with our comprehensive ranking. We've gone on a juicy adventure, tasting our way through the world of cranberry juice to bring you the ultimate guide. From big-name brands to the hidden gems of the juice aisle, from the overly sweet to the downright bitter, we've tasted it all, so you don't have to. And let's be real, who doesn't love a good ranking?
10. Apple & Eve
As a long-standing brand in the world of juices, Apple & Eve has built a reputation for delivering top-notch beverages that families have relied on for over 40 years, but let's get one thing straight: cranberry juice should taste like cranberries. It's not a complicated concept. Yet, when we poured ourselves a glass of Apple & Eve's cranberry blend, we were left scratching our heads in confusion. There was absolutely nothing cranberry about it, and it literally tasted like apple juice.
We understand Apple & Eve is known for its apple-centric creations, but if you're going to call it cranberry, at least give us a hint of that tart and tangy goodness. In terms of nutrition, Apple & Eve stays true to its commitment to healthy options. The cranberry blend boasts no artificial sweeteners or added sugar, which is commendable. It's also certified non-GMO, another point in their favor. However, these qualities alone couldn't save this particular juice from its cranberry identity crisis.
With 110 calories and 27 grams of sugar per 8 fluid ounces, it's essential to consider how much you drink if you're watching your calorie or sugar intake. While the numbers themselves aren't astronomical, it's worth noting. So, in the overall rankings of cranberry juices, Apple & Eve's cranberry blend falls disappointingly short. If you're seeking a true cranberry experience, you're better off looking elsewhere. However, if you're perfectly content with apple juice masquerading as cranberry, this may be right up your alley.
9. 365 Whole Foods Market
365 by Whole Foods is a trusty brand for health-conscious consumers. With its commitment to organic, non-GMO, and sustainable ingredients, it's no wonder that its products have become a go-to choice for those who value transparency and quality. However, not all flavors can be winners, as we discovered when we embarked on the quest for its organic cranberry juice.
In the realm of cranberry goodness, 365's organic cranberry juice missed the mark. We're still scratching our heads, wondering what this concoction truly tastes like. Cranberry? More like a confusing blend of apple and raspberry flavors that hijacked our taste buds. To add insult to cranberry-less injury, the juice's appearance didn't exactly scream cranberry either. With a light, almost pink hue, it left us questioning whether the cranberries in this juice had ever truly met a cranberry bog, on top of the fact it had that dreaded fake sugar taste.
On the nutritional front, 365 remains true to its commitment to organic goodness with the USDA organic seal. However, it's worth noting that this cranberry misadventure comes with 110 calories and 28 grams of sugar per 8 fluid ounces. If you're watching your calorie or sugar intake, this may give you a moment of pause.
Of all the cranberry juice brands, 365's organic cranberry finds itself on the lower rungs of the ladder. While we appreciate its dedication to organic ingredients and responsible sourcing practices, this particular flavor wasn't a top choice.
8. R.W. Knudsen
R.W. Knudsen is the purveyor of natural juices that have graced our taste buds for over six decades. With its commitment to pure ingredients and a wide range of flavors, it has become a household name in the juice industry. Let's talk about Just Cranberry Juice. This juice is bitter, and it's like a punch in the taste buds that keeps on giving. You take a sip, and that tart taste lingers with you all day long, reminding you that cranberries are not to be trifled with.
However, we have to give credit where credit is due. At least this juice tastes like cranberry. But this option isn't just for sipping. It's a versatile little number that can be a star player in healthy smoothies and other cranberry recipes. If you're feeling adventurous and want to incorporate some cranberry tanginess into your culinary creations, this juice has got your back.
In terms of nutrition, Just Cranberry Juice keeps things in check, with 70 calories and 8 grams of sugar per 8 fluid ounces. Plus, it's 100% juice, which is perfect for those who prefer to skip the additives. Non-GMO Project Verified, R.W. Knudsen's commitment to quality and sustainability shines through.
In the grand scheme of cranberry juice rankings, R.W. Knudsen is not for the faint of heart. It's a bold, unapologetic experience that will make your taste buds stand up and take notice. If you're up for a tart adventure, give it a go. But be warned, bitterness awaits.
7. Old Orchard
Welcome to the world of Old Orchard Brands. For over three decades, this Michigan-based company has been crafting delicious juices and blends that tickle our taste buds and satisfy our cravings. But how does its Healthy Balance Cranberry Juice fare in the land of health-conscious beverages?
First things first — the taste. This juice isn't off-putting for those watching their health, but there's no denying that distinct fake sugar flavor. That pesky aftertaste leaves a not-so-pleasant residue on your tongue. We know it's meant to be a low-calorie option, but we can't help but wish for a more flavorful sweetener.
Speaking of taste, let's talk cranberries. Or should we say cranberry-ish? Old Orchard leans more towards a berry blend than an authentic cranberry experience. While it may not satisfy the die-hard cranberry purists out there, it still offers a pleasant fruity flavor.
In terms of nutritional information, this option is the healthiest on the list, with only 6 calories and a mere 1 gram of sugar per 8 fluid ounces. Plus, it's sweetened with sucralose, a no-calorie sweetener, giving you that hint of sweetness without the added guilt. And there are no artificial flavors or preservatives lurking within this bottle.
In the tapestry of cranberry juices, Old Orchard's Healthy Balance may not take center stage, but it certainly holds its own in the chorus. While it may not deliver an authentic cranberry experience, it offers a berry flavor that can be enjoyed by those seeking a healthier alternative.
6. Lakewood
Lakewood, the Florida-based juice virtuosos who've been crafting liquid wonders for over 50 years. With its unwavering commitment to organic goodness, it has captured the hearts and taste buds of health-conscious juice enthusiasts everywhere. We tried its Pure Cranberry juice, and it didn't hold back. This juice is a tart explosion of cranberry with a smooth aftertaste. Unlike some other healthy options, Lakewood manages to leave you with a pleasant finish.
Visually, this juice is a sight to behold. Its deep, rich color is a testament to the pure cranberry goodness within. This isn't your run-of-the-mill fruit juice — it's a liquid powerhouse of cranberry awesomeness.
Lakewood takes pride in its commitment to purity. Its Pure Cranberry juice contains no added sugar or preservatives. Plus, they deliver it in a BPS, BPA, and DEHP-free container, so you can sip with peace of mind. Regarding nutrition, Lakewood brings 80 calories and 11 grams of sugar per 8 fluid ounces to the table. While it may not be the lowest on the calorie or sugar scale, it's important to remember that this is the natural sweetness of cranberries at play — no added sugars needed.
Lakewood's Pure Cranberry juice reigns supreme in the world of health. It's a top choice for those seeking a nutrient-rich, tangy elixir that packs a punch. Just be warned, this is not your everyday refreshing beverage. It's more of a special treat, an experience to be savored and enjoyed on occasions when you crave that tart cranberry goodness.
5. Market Pantry
Market Pantry is a Target-owned brand that caters to the savvy shoppers of the world. Known for its affordable and no-frills approach, it offers a range of grocery items that satisfy the taste buds without breaking the bank. We tried its Cranberry Blend Cocktail, and upon pouring a glass, we couldn't help but notice the lack of a vibrant, rich color that we typically associate with cranberry. Instead, we were greeted with a pale, almost timid shade of pink. But hey, looks can be deceiving.
We soldiered on, and to our surprise, the taste didn't quite match the color. It started off with a touch of bitterness, which gave us a moment of concern. However, just as we were about to give up hope, the flavor transformed and ended on a sweet note.
In the grand pantheon of cranberry blends, Market Pantry's offering falls into the realm of mediocrity. It's not mind-blowingly delicious, nor is it a total disappointment. It's just average — a pleasantly mediocre mixer that gets the job done without any fancy frills or fireworks. But this blend brings 110 calories and 28 grams of sugar per 8 fluid ounces to the party. We also can't ignore the fact that this blend contains lots of added ingredients and flavors. So, if you're looking for a pure cranberry experience, you might want to keep moving down the aisle.
4. Northland
Over 30 years old, Northland offers a variety of juice blends made from premium quality fruits, free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. We took a deep dive into its regular cranberry option to see where it lands in the realm of cranberry juices.
As we poured our first glass, we couldn't help but appreciate the normal coloring and fruity scent that wafted up to our eager noses. Alas, the aroma proved to be more of a tease than anything else. The taste, while not unpleasant, didn't quite live up to our fruity expectations, but the flavor, although somewhat bland, managed to maintain a hint of cranberry essence. It leans more towards a traditional cocktail blend rather than standing out as a true cranberry champion.
Despite this mild disappointment, Northland's cranberry made amends for its lack of aftertaste. It offered a pleasant and straightforward sip that didn't overstay its welcome. Northland serves up 110 calories and 21 grams of sugar per 8 fluid ounces. It's not the leanest option in the juice aisle, but hey, we're dealing with cranberries here. And yes, we can't overlook the fact that this blend contains a fair share of added ingredients.
If you're seeking a purist's paradise, you might need to look for another option. Overall, this brand offers a decent cranberry drink. It may not send your taste buds on a wild adventure, but it delivers the cranberry taste you crave without any unpleasant surprises.
3. Welch's
Welch's, with over 150 years of experience, has mastered the art of crafting high-quality juices. And while grape juice might be its main squeeze, it sure knows how to play the cranberry game. The Cranberry Juice Cocktail hit the sweet spot between smoothness and a zingy flavor that will make your mouth and heart dance. The first sip of this crimson elixir reveals a light, refreshing taste that's like a summer breeze on your tongue.
It's the kind of juice that makes you want to close your eyes and imagine yourself lounging on a tropical beach with a cold mixed drink in hand. And fear not, friends, for there's no bitter aftertaste to spoil the fun. This cranberry option is a solid choice. What sets Welch's Cranberry Juice Cocktail apart from the crowd is its commitment to quality. Made with simple, natural ingredients, this juice is a guilt-free pleasure that won't leave you with a sugar-induced headache. Well, maybe just a tiny sugar rush.
Speaking of sugar, buckle up for a wild ride because each 8 fl oz serving of this elixir boasts a generous 32 grams of sugar. We know the real reason why it tastes so good. Let's not dwell on the numbers. Instead, let's focus on the fact that Welch's has managed to strike the perfect balance between sweet and tart. It's a must-try, taking the third-place spot on our cranberry list.
2. Ocean Spray
Coming in second is the more recognizable bottle of cranberry brands — Ocean Spray. This top pick has been satisfying taste buds for over 90 years, and it's no wonder why. Its Cranberry Juice Cocktail is a delightful mix of sweet and tart that hits all the right notes. The first thing you'll notice is that beautiful coloring — a vibrant red that just screams cranberry juice. And the smell is pure nostalgia. Close your eyes, take a whiff, and you might find yourself transported back to a plane ride or even a wild night at the club.
This juice goes down so smoothly, especially when poured over ice. It's the perfect balance of sweet and tart zing, creating a harmonious flavor profile that's simply irresistible. What makes Ocean Spray even more appealing is its commitment to quality and health. Its Cranberry Juice Cocktail contains no high fructose corn syrup, no artificial flavors, and no preservatives. It also offers 100% vitamin C packed into each serving. Just be mindful that said serving has 110 calories and 25 grams of sugar per 8-fluid ounces.
It's clear that Ocean Spray knows what it's doing, and its long-standing reputation in the industry speaks for itself. Whether you're looking to relive childhood memories, create new ones, or simply enjoy a tasty and refreshing beverage, Ocean Spray Cranberry Juice Cocktail is the way to go. It's a classic that never gets old and will always leave you with a smile on your face.
1. Langers
Move over other cranberry juices because Langers has entered the ring and claimed the title of the cranberry juice champion. This juice is the real deal, and it's time to buckle up for a flavor experience that will leave you wanting more.
Langers has been perfecting its craft since 1960, and it shows in every sip of its Cranberry Juice Cocktail. The first thing you'll notice is the beautiful color that's just right. It's the Goldilocks of cranberry, hitting that sweet spot that's visually appealing and gets your taste buds excited. But the taste is the real reason it places first. Langers is a symphony of flavors that dance on your tongue. It's not too bitter, and it's not too sweet — it's the elusive balance that so many other brands struggle to achieve.
Langers also has a commitment to quality products. Its Cranberry Juice Cocktail is made with simple, natural ingredients, free from artificial flavors and colors. Plus, there's no high fructose corn syrup in sight — just pure, unadulterated cranberry goodness. While the nutrition profile ties with the others at 110 calories and 27 grams of sugar in an 8-fluid-ounce serving, you still know you're in good hands with its ingredient list.
When it comes to cranberry juice, Langers has a flavor explosion that will leave you wondering why you ever settled for anything less. Don't settle for less than this top pick next when your next cranberry craving kicks in.