5 Alternatives to San Pellegrino

San Pellegrino is undoubtedly one of the world's most famous mineral waters. It embodies Italian elegance and subtle mineralisation. You can find the mineral water in many restaurants, hotels and bars around the world. However, if you want to learn more about water or simply try something new, I have put together a list of five fascinating Italian alternatives.

Below, I present five extraordinary mineral waters. They offer exciting alternatives to San Pellegrino thanks to their unique design, taste and origin.

1. Cedea

Cedea originates from the heart of the Dolomites in South Tyrol, with its source located at an altitude of 1,500 metres. The water flows at a constant pressure, is completely pure, and has a temperature of 6.9 °C. Its low mineralisation of 131 mg/l means it is classified as a low mineralised water. The water is available in still and slightly sparkling versions.

The design of the Cedea bottles is inspired by the Dolomites. The colours of the bottles are reminiscent of the 'alpenglow' of the Dolomites, the pink-red glow of the mountains at sunrise and sunset. This play of light occurs at sunrise and sunset, when the Dolomites glow with a bright reddish hue. The 'Sparkling' version is sky blue to reflect the sky. This design has already won several awards for the design, including the Red Dot Award..

2. Chiarella

Chiarella mineral water comes from the Dolomite springs of Monte Grona on Lake Como, and has been bottled there since 1964. This pure mineral water is bottled at 750 metres above sea level in the immediate surroundings of the mountain spring.

With a sodium content of just one milligram per litre, it is ideal for those on a low-sodium diet and for use in preparing baby food. Its total mineral content is 204 mg per litre. The bottle design of this water has also won several design awards.

3. Solé

Solé originates from the Italian Alps. More precisely, it comes from the Adamello Brenta Global Geopark. Its total mineralisation is 393 mg/l. The sodium content is also very low at just 3.1 mg/l.

4. Ferrarelle

Ferrarelle originates from a spring located at the foot of the dormant Roccamonfina volcano, situated in the Campania region. As it travels through various layers of rock, the water absorbs minerals. It finally returns to the earth's surface as a geyser in Riardo Springs Park. This mineral water has a total mineralisation of 1,328 mg/l. It is characterised by its high calcium (400 mg/l) and hydrogen carbonate (1,500 mg/l) content. The water is only available with carbon dioxide. Its special feature is that it contains its own spring carbon dioxide.

5. Marzia

Marzia is a real insider. The water bottled in Tuscany has a total mineralisation of 1,372 mg/l. Alongside its high calcium content (315 mg/l), it contains significant amounts of magnesium (100 mg/l). The mineral water is sourced from Sorgente SantElena S.R.L., which also operates a spa.

Here, you will also find an overview of the mineral content of the different mineral waters for comparison.

Conclusion: Italy has far more to offer than just San Pellegrino

While San Pellegrino is a classic, it is by no means the only exciting mineral water that Italy has to offer. Depending on the occasion, food or mood, there are other waters with unique qualities. I would like to encourage restaurants, hotels and bars around the world to be open to new things! The world of mineral water is more diverse than you think.

Best regards

Timo Bausch

Certified Water Sommelier

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About Timo Bausch

My fascination with mineral waters began in 2016 during my training as a Water Sommelier. Since then, I have been exploring the characteristics and diversity of water. In addition to pairing water with food, wine, coffee and other beverages, I offer the creation of water menus for restaurants and hotels. Furthermore, it is also important to me to draw attention to the importance of drinking water.