June has arrived, summer is knocking at the door, and it's the perfect time to start something new. Every month seems to come with a challenge. Dry January. No-Spend February. Step Challenges. Planks. Push-Ups. Meditation streaks. But this June, here at The Droplet, we're introducing something much simpler:
The June Water Source Challenge
For the next 30 days, we challenge you to drink at least one bottle of natural source water every day. Not purified water. Not flavored water. Not water enhanced with powders or additives. Just natural water from a real source.
The goal isn't necessarily to drink more water (although that's never a bad thing). The goal is to become more aware of what you're drinking and where it comes from. Think about it. Many of us can tell you where our coffee comes from. We know where our wine comes from. We know where our vegetables are grown.
But when it comes to water, most people simply turn on a faucet or grab a bottle without ever thinking about the source. This month, let's change that. Let's explore the world through water. And for the first stop on our June journey, we're heading to Spain.
Meet 22 Artesian Water
One of my favorite waters to introduce to people is 22 Artesian. Not just because it's beautiful. Not just because it's delicious. But because the story behind the water is fascinating. 22 Artesian originates in the Rioja region of northern Spain, an area famous for vineyards, rolling hills, and centuries of agricultural tradition. Hidden beneath this landscape is an artesian aquifer where water has been naturally filtered through layers of rock for years before emerging under pressure. Unlike many waters that require pumping, artesian waters are naturally pushed upward by underground pressure. It's one of nature's most incredible examples of patience and geology working together. Even more unique? The water emerges at a constant temperature of approximately 22°C (71.6°F) year-round, which is where the brand gets its name. No matter the season. No matter the weather. The source remains remarkably consistent. Nature has its own thermostat.
What Does It Taste Like?
If you've never tasted a higher-mineral water before, 22 Artesian can be an eye-opening experience. Its Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) sit around 660 mg/L, placing it in the medium-to-high mineral category. For comparison, many mainstream bottled waters contain fewer than 100 mg/L. What does that mean for your palate? Texture. Character. Presence. 22 Artesian has a fuller mouthfeel than many low-mineral waters. The water feels substantial without being overwhelming. Many people notice subtle mineral notes and a smooth finish that lingers longer than expected. It's one of those waters that reminds you that water actually has flavor.
Why Water Sommeliers Love It
As a certified water sommelier, I often explain that water is much like wine. The source matters. The geology matters. The minerals matter.The journey matters.22 Artesian stands out because of its balance. It contains beneficial minerals including calcium and magnesium while remaining low in sodium. Its naturally alkaline pH of approximately 7.7 makes it approachable and easy to enjoy throughout the day. It's also a fantastic dining water. The still version pairs beautifully with seafood, salads, fresh vegetables, and lighter meals. The sparkling version is one of my favorite alternatives to Champagne for those choosing not to drink alcohol. The bubbles are elegant, lively, and surprisingly refined.
Your June Challenge
Here's how to participate.
Week 1: Discover Your Source
Pick one natural source water and learn where it comes from. What country? What type of source? Spring? Artesian? Naturally sparkling? Start paying attention.
Week 2: Taste Mindfully
Spend one day actually tasting your water. What do you notice? Is it crisp? Creamy? Mineral-rich? Soft? Most people are surprised by how different waters can be.
Week 3: Water Pairing Week
Pair your water with food. Try a still water with lunch. Try a sparkling water with dinner. Notice how the experience changes.
Week 4: Share Your Journey
Tell someone what you've learned. Introduce a friend to a new water. Host a small tasting. Post a photo. Spread the message that water is far more interesting than most people realize.
The Bigger Picture
At Salacious Drinks, we often say that water is not just water. Every bottle tells the story of geology, climate, time, and place. Some waters spend years underground. Some spend decades. Others have traveled through volcanic rock, limestone, granite, or ancient aquifers before ever reaching a bottle. When you drink a natural source water, you're experiencing a piece of the landscape itself. That's what makes this month's challenge so exciting. It's not really about drinking more water. It's about becoming curious. It's about slowing down. It's about discovering that the world's most consumed beverage still has stories left to tell. So this June, join us. Pick up a bottle of 22 Artesian. Learn about the source. Taste the minerals. Share the experience. And see if one bottle of water a day changes the way you think about hydration. Happy June, everyone.
— Ashley, The Waterlady