What cities have the best tasting tap water in the world?
Water is life. It’s the most essential element for our survival, and yet, it’s something most of us take for granted. But not all tap water is created equal. Some cities have the privilege of offering their residents water that’s not just safe to drink but is also a delight to the taste buds.
Today, we’re diving into the world of H2O to discover the top 10 cities and regions with the best tasting tap water, what makes it so good, and how you can replicate that crisp taste at home.
1. Zermatt, Switzerland
Nestled in the Swiss Alps, Zermatt’s tap water is as pure as it gets. The water comes directly from the ancient glaciers, and the minimal treatment preserves its natural minerals, giving it a refreshing and crisp taste.
Note on PFAS in Switzerland: There are reports of PFAS being detected in Swiss groundwater, which could potentially affect tap water quality.
2. Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland’s water is legendary. Sourced from natural springs, it undergoes geothermal purification, which not only makes it safe but also infuses it with a unique taste that’s both clean and slightly sweet.
3. Munich, Germany
Germany takes its beer seriously, and good beer needs good water. Munich’s tap water comes from the Mangfall Valley, where it’s naturally filtered through gravel beds, resulting in a soft and pleasant taste.
Note on PFAS in Munich: A study screened German drinking water for PFAS, indicating their presence, but specific data for Munich was not detailed.
No specific reports indicating the presence of microplastics in Munich’s tap water were found. However, European studies suggest that microplastics are generally present in drinking water at low levels.
4. Vancouver, Canada
The rainforests of British Columbia are the starting point for Vancouver’s water. It’s collected from the Capilano, Seymour, and Coquitlam reservoirs, and the minimal chlorination doesn’t detract from its natural, earthy flavor.
Note on Microplastics in Vacouver: Research is being conducted on filtering microplastics from water, indicating their presence in the environment, which could include tap water sources.
5. Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne’s water is sourced from protected catchment areas in the Yarra Valley, and it’s so good that it’s often used in barista competitions. The secret? A careful balance of minerals that enhances its taste.
Note on PFAS and Microplastics in Melbourne:
6. Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm’s water comes from Lake Mälaren. It’s so pure that minimal treatment is required, which means it retains its natural taste – a taste that’s often described as ‘soft’ by water connoisseurs.
Note on PFAS and Microplastics in Stockholm: PFAS have been found in low concentrations in Lake Malaren. Microplastics have also been reported to be found in several tap water sources around Stockholm.
7. Oslo, Norway
The fjords of Norway are more than just a stunning sight; they’re also the source of Oslo’s delicious tap water. It’s soft, with a low mineral content, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Note on PFAS in Norway: PFAS have been found in lake Tyrifjorden which is a potential source for tap water.
8. Vienna, Austria
Vienna’s water travels from the Alpine springs through ancient Roman aqueducts. It’s naturally high in calcium and magnesium, contributing to its renowned taste and quality.
9. New York City, USA
The Big Apple’s water is sourced from the Catskill Mountains and is so well-regarded that it’s even been bottled and sold. It’s naturally filtered through limestone, which gives it a distinctive, smooth taste.
Note on PFAS in New York:
About 50% of New York’s public water systems have detected some level of PFAS contamination, and about 250 public water systems have exceeded the state’s PFOA and PFOS drinking water standards or maximum contaminant levels (MCLs).
Note on Microplastics in New York tap water:
Microplastics have been found in New York tap water.
10. Helsinki, Finland
Finland’s capital boasts water that’s drawn from Lake Päijänne. It’s so clean that it requires minimal treatment, and the result is water that’s pure, refreshing, and invigorating.
What Makes Water Taste Good?
The taste of water is influenced by its mineral content and the way it’s treated. Minerals like calcium and magnesium can enhance the flavor, making the water taste “softer.” On the other hand, high concentrations of iron or sulfur can result in unpleasant flavors. The treatment process also plays a role; for example, over-chlorination can leave a chemical aftertaste.
The Connoisseur’s Perspective
Professional water tasters, much like wine sommeliers, look for balance in mineral content and a clean, pure taste. They often prefer water with a neutral pH and no single overpowering element. The best-tasting waters are usually those that are naturally filtered and have a well-rounded mineral profile.
Achieving Great Tasting Tap Water at Home
Not everyone can live in the cities with the best tap water, but you can still improve the taste of your home supply. Water filters are the key. 5-stage nanotechnology filters by Tappwater can remove chlorine and 100+ other substances that may affect taste, odor and health. Reverse osmosis systems by e.g. Bluewater are even more thorough, removing a wider range of contaminants, including dissolved solids that can affect taste.
In Conclusion
The cities listed above have set the standard for delicious tap water, thanks to their pristine sources and careful treatment. But no matter where you live, a good water filter can provide you with a taste of the pure, refreshing experience that these top 10 cities offer every time their residents turn on the tap.
Remember, the journey to the perfect glass of water starts with understanding what’s in it. So, get to know your water, and don’t be afraid to invest in a filtration system that suits your taste and your local water supply.
Cheers to hydration!
Source of the top 10 cities with the best tap water
The criteria for choosing these particular top 10 cities of best tap were:
-
Berkeley Springs International Water Tasting (BSIWT):
- The BSIWT, often called the “Academy Awards of Water,” is the largest water tasting competition in the world. It evaluates tap water from various cities based on taste and odor profiles.
- Winners of this competition are considered to have some of the cleanest and best-tasting tap water.
-
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Regulations:
- The EPA regulates tap water quality in the United States through the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA).
- The SDWA sets national health-based standards for drinking water quality and establishes maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) that water systems must meet.
- Water systems are required to monitor and test their water regularly, provide public reports on water quality, and take corrective actions if standards are not met.
-
American Water Works Association (AWWA) Taste Tests:
- The AWWA conducts annual “Best of the Best” drinking water taste tests, where water experts and industry leaders evaluate tap water samples.
- Cities that perform well in these taste tests are recognized for their high-quality tap water.
-
University of Cincinnati Study:
- The University of Cincinnati conducted a study evaluating drinking water in major cities.
- This study considers factors such as natural resources, water source, treatment processes, and testing to assess tap water quality.
-
Contaminant Levels and Monitoring:
- The number of contaminants detected in local water, as well as adherence to national standards, plays a role in determining tap water quality.
- Water systems that consistently meet or exceed quality standards are likely to have better-tasting tap water.
Remember that great-tasting tap water doesn’t always require sourcing from pristine rivers or natural springs. It’s about meeting quality standards, low levels of contaminants, and a pleasant taste for consumers.
