MINERAL WATER COMPARISON
Gerolsteiner vs Apollinaris: mineral water comparison
Two of Germany's most famous mineral waters, both from the Eifel volcanic region. Same neighbourhood, very different labels.
Side-by-side comparison
Direct comparison of the two waters using values from their official labels.
| Parameter | Gerolsteiner | Apollinaris |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed residue (mg/L) | 2479 | 2740 |
| Sodium (mg/L) | 118 | 470 |
| Calcium (mg/L) | 348 | 90 |
| Magnesium (mg/L) | 108 | 120 |
| Bicarbonate (mg/L) | 1816 | 1800 |
| Carbonation | Sparkling | Lightly sparkling |
| Country | Germany | Germany |
| Source | Gerolstein, Eifel | Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler, Eifel |
Values based on official label data.
Mineral profile differences
Both waters draw from the volcanic geology of the Eifel and reach high-mineralization status (over 1500 mg/L fixed residue). The total mineralization is comparable: Gerolsteiner at 2479 mg/L and Apollinaris at 2740 mg/L. Bicarbonate is also very similar (1816 vs 1800 mg/L), giving both waters a smooth mouthfeel that softens the perception of acidity.
The major differences are on calcium and sodium. Gerolsteiner delivers 348 mg/L of calcium - one of the highest values among widely available European waters - against just 90 mg/L for Apollinaris. The opposite is true for sodium: Apollinaris carries 470 mg/L versus Gerolsteiner's 118 mg/L. Magnesium is broadly similar (108 vs 120 mg/L), so both waters contribute meaningfully to magnesium intake.
Taste and use cases
Gerolsteiner has a pronounced mineral character, with the calcium and magnesium giving it real body. The high bicarbonate softens what would otherwise feel sharp, and the fine sparkle keeps it lively without being aggressive. It is a classic German table water, well suited to fuller meals and traditional dishes.
Apollinaris Selection has a distinctive saline edge from its very high sodium content, which is unmistakable on the palate. The medium carbonation feels lighter than Gerolsteiner's sparkle, and the high bicarbonate again rounds the finish. It is more polarising than Gerolsteiner - drinkers either love the assertive mineral profile or find it too strong for everyday hydration.
Which one to choose if…
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You're watching sodium intake → Gerolsteiner is much lower at 118 mg/L versus Apollinaris's 470 mg/L. Neither qualifies as low-sodium, but Apollinaris is among the highest-sodium mass-market waters in Germany.
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You want a calcium boost → Gerolsteiner delivers 348 mg/L of calcium versus 90 mg/L for Apollinaris - almost four times more, with bioavailability comparable to dairy.
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You want a magnesium-rich water → Both deliver substantial magnesium (108 vs 120 mg/L), among the highest values available in mass distribution.
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You're pairing with food → Gerolsteiner's calcium-led profile suits most cuisines; Apollinaris's saline edge and lighter sparkle work better with richer, fattier dishes that benefit from a contrasting mineral kick.
FAQ
Is Gerolsteiner healthier than Apollinaris?
Neither is healthier in absolute terms. Gerolsteiner contributes more calcium and far less sodium per litre, which is generally better aligned with current dietary guidance. Apollinaris contributes more sodium, which can be useful in specific situations but is less suitable for daily, high-volume consumption if you watch your salt intake.
Which has more sodium, Gerolsteiner or Apollinaris?
Apollinaris Selection has 470 mg/L of sodium versus 118 mg/L for Gerolsteiner Sprudel - almost four times more. Two litres of Apollinaris contribute close to 1 g of sodium, a meaningful share of recommended daily intake.
Are Gerolsteiner and Apollinaris from the same region?
Both come from the Eifel volcanic region in western Germany, but from different sources. Gerolsteiner is bottled in Gerolstein, in the Vulkaneifel district. Apollinaris comes from Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler in the Ahr valley. The geological context is similar but the mineral fingerprints are very different.
Which is better for everyday hydration?
Gerolsteiner is the more typical everyday choice in Germany thanks to its lower sodium and high calcium. Apollinaris Selection is often chosen as an occasion or meal water rather than primary daily hydration, especially if you watch sodium intake.
Are Gerolsteiner and Apollinaris naturally sparkling?
Both are naturally carbonated at source. Gerolsteiner Sprudel is bottled with strong carbonation. Apollinaris Selection is bottled at a lighter sparkling level (medium). Both are classified as natural mineral waters under EU regulation.