Always Ask for Avery's - 1st Review (Rated 2 of 12)

       I first noticed that the ingredients are not listed anywhere on the bottle.  They write, “Avery’s has been making old-fashioned flavored gourmet soda for over 100 years using real cane sugar and the finest quality ingredients.”  I scoured the web to find the ingredients: Carbonated Water, pure cane sugar, natural flavors, Citric Acid, caramel color, and Sodium Benzoate.

Click here for rating criteria information and a summary chart of root beers rated.

Aroma and Flavor - 1 out of 3 mugs

The anticipated aroma and flavor profile of root beer are notably absent. It evokes a distinct scent reminiscent of the atmosphere encountered upon entering a recently renovated restroom in a century-old gas station situated in the heart of Nebraska. While not unpleasant, the source of this aroma remains elusive. Consequently, I refrained from finishing this beverage.  

Head - 0 out of 3 mugs

The beverage had minimal head and low carbonation. It was relatively flat, with a head that disappears upon blinking. 

Zip - 0 out of 3 mugs

This beverage lacks any discernible zip. It exhibits a subtle sweetness, devoid of vanilla notes, and a faint caramel flavor. Given its superior quality compared to muddy water, it is not deserving of a score of zero out of three..  

Post Consumption Impression - 1 out of 3 mugs

The most accurate description of the soda is leaving a bottle of Barq’s or A&W open overnight and consuming it in the morning. This experience closely resembles the taste of the newly opened bottle of Always Ask for Avery’s. Notably, the soda does not leave a foul aftertaste, which positively impacts the overall impression.

  

Would I recommend this at 2 out of 12 mugs (2 out of 9 mugs without head)?

No, unless you like stale, day-old Barq's or A&W. The most disappointing part was the label's blatant misrepresentation. They once made this with real cane sugar, but the second ingredient is misspelled as corn syrup. I also wonder if this is a case of root beer going bad, as others have rated it this high.

OTHER REVIEWS

Cosmo's - 5 of 10
Root Beer Respect - 6 of 10
Anthony's - 90 of 100

Derek Janiak – 3.9 out of 10