POINT Premium (#4 reviewed - Rated 9.4 out of 12)

My girlfriend is currently visiting her parents, leaving me with an energetic dog and an abundance of free time. Consequently, I have decided to conduct a second review of root beer for the weekend. While my son may express dissatisfaction, as he has advised me to limit my root beer consumption, this day was not disappointing. I selected a Wisconsin root beer called Point Premium Root Beer, which is manufactured in Stevens Point.

Stevens Point Brewery is honored to be the nation’s fifth-largest privately owned brewery. The company was established in 1857 by George Ruder and Frank Wahle. In 1864, the company provided its beer to the troops during the American Civil War. The brewery was subsequently sold to Andrew and Jacob Lutz in 1867. The Lutz family continued operations until it was sold to Gustav Kuenzel in 1897. Various other sales occurred until the current owners, real estate developers Joe Martino and Jim Wiechmann, acquired the brewery in 2002. They began producing soda. This brew was officially an award winner, having secured a Gold Medal from the Beverage Testing Institute in 2003.

Steven’s Point Brewery has a unique mascot: an older gentleman with a distinctive pointed head that would make the Coneheads envious. The cap features the image of the extraterrestrial brew maker.

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

Ingredients: 

Carbonated Water, pure cane sugar, high fructose corn syrup, maltodextrin, Wisconsin honey, caramel color, natural and artificial flavor, vanilla, phosphoric acid, and sodium benzoate as preservative.  

Nutrition 12 oz. serving (from the bottle)

180 Calories

40 mg Sodium.

45 g Sugar

0 mg Caffeine

Aroma and Flavor - 2 out of 3 mugs - deducted 0.5 for HFCS

The beverage commences with a robust root beer aroma, subtly complemented by hints of vanilla and spices. The initial sip offers a creamy, dreamy introduction, swiftly followed by a refreshing infusion of Wisconsin Honey. This harmonious blend of cane sugar imparts a mildly sweet, distinct flavor profile, which is effectively enhanced by a specific root beer extract. The amber bottle was consumed rapidly. This is the most exceptional root beer I have encountered to date, particularly in terms of aroma and flavor.

Head - 2.5 out of 3 mugs

Point has a medium frothy head that sticks around for a while.  The overall balance is the best I have seen in a long time.  The score is 2.5 out of 3 for the head; as I recall, a few were better in my younger days.

Zip - 2.4 out of 3 mugs

The "point" of this root beer is its delicious, sweet Body with all the right stuff. The carbonation is medium or slightly higher (which I prefer). It has a nice but not very spicy zip and a pleasant vanilla and honey aftertaste.  

Post Consumption Impression - 2.5 out of 3 mugs

Upon establishing clear standards for quality root beer, the producers recognized the significance of these guidelines. The characteristic smooth taste, moderate carbonation, and substantial head are attributes that I find particularly memorable. While I acknowledge the notable aftertaste associated with high-fructose corn syrup, I recognize it is an imperfect aspect of the product.

Would I recommend this at 9.4 out of 12 mugs (6.9 out of 9 mugs without the head)?

DEFINITELY WORTH A TRY!  In summary, the head was exceptional, frothy, and had staying power. The body is a creamy joy, with vanilla, honey, caramel, and a hint of sassafras. The finish is rich and delightful!

OTHER REVIEWS
Eric's Gourmet - 4 of 5
Brad's Brew - 9 of 10
Root Beer Rundown - 88 of 100
Thirsty Dudes - 2 of 5