The World of Mineral Waters: What Makes Them Special & Top Brands to Try

Mineral water isn't just a fancy bottle on a restaurant table, it's a naturally sourced drink prized for its purity, taste, and potential health benefits. 

But what exactly makes mineral water different from the regular bottled water you see on supermarket shelves? And which brands are worth seeking out?

Let’s take a look.

What Is Mineral Water?

Mineral water comes from a naturally occurring underground spring, rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, sodium, and bicarbonate. These minerals are naturally absorbed as the water filters through rock layers over time — no artificial enhancements allowed.

To be legally classified as natural mineral water in the UK and EU, the source must be protected, pollution-free, and the water must be bottled at the source. It cannot be treated except for the removal of unstable elements (e.g. iron or sulphur).

Why People Choose Mineral Water

Many people opt for mineral water due to:

Taste: The mineral content gives each brand a distinctive flavour.

Health perks: High-calcium or magnesium waters may support bone and muscle health.

Digestive benefits: Some sparkling mineral waters aid digestion due to their bicarbonate content.

Leading Mineral Water Brands Around the World

Here are some of the top international and UK mineral water brands, known for quality, taste, and trust:

Evian (France)

Sourced from the French Alps

Light mineral content, smooth taste

Popular worldwide and seen as a premium choice

San Pellegrino (Italy)

Sparkling mineral water with a crisp, slightly salty taste

High in sulphates and calcium

Often seen in fine dining establishments

Gerolsteiner (Germany)

One of the world’s top-selling sparkling mineral waters

High in calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonate

Known for its strong fizz and mineral punch

Perrier (France)

Famous for its strong carbonation and green glass bottle

Often used as a mixer or served chilled on its own

Valser (Switzerland)

Bottled from alpine springs

High in minerals, clean and refreshing

Popular across Europe, now owned by Coca-Cola

Highland Spring (Scotland)

One of the UK's best-known mineral water brands

Naturally sourced from the Ochil Hills in Perthshire

Low in sodium and soft in taste

Buxton (England)

Comes from the Peak District

Now owned by Nestlé

Slightly higher mineral content than Highland Spring

Icelandic Glacial (Iceland)

Sourced from the Ölfus Spring in Iceland

Exceptionally pure and low in minerals

Packaged with a focus on sustainability

Hildon (England)

Natural mineral water from the Test Valley in Hampshire

Still and gently sparkling versions

Served at many premium hotels and airlines

Choosing the Right One for You

Low-mineral waters (e.g. Evian, Icelandic Glacial): Ideal for everyday drinking

High-mineral waters (e.g. Gerolsteiner): Great for athletes or people with mineral deficiencies

Sparkling options (e.g. Perrier, San Pellegrino): Perfect for meals or digestion

Local UK brands (e.g. Highland Spring, Buxton): Budget-friendly and widely available

Sustainability Note

Many brands are now making moves towards recycled packaging, carbon neutrality, and locally sourced bottling to reduce environmental impact. Look for brands with sustainability certifications if this is important to you.

Final Sip

Whether you’re after hydration with a hint of luxury or simply want to try something different from tap or filtered water, mineral waters offer a world of choice. From crisp and sparkling to smooth and still, there’s a bottle to suit every taste.

Why not try a few and find your favourite?