Filberts (#6 reviewed - Rated 7 of 12)

Root beer is a real family business product. Ronald Filbert and his wife Karen continue to run the family business, which started in 1926 when George Filbert and his family delivered milk, ice, and coal to homes in the Bridgeport neighborhood by horse-drawn wagon. The family added root beer when it became popular during Prohibition. It was manufactured in half barrels and supplied mostly to taverns across five nearby states. Known best for its namesake root beer, Filbert’s also produces 17 flavors of soda.

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Ingredients: Carbonated Water, sugar and/or corn sweetener, caramel color, natural and artificial flavors, sodium benzoate (as a preservative)

Aroma and Flavor -1.5 out of 3 mugs

When I open the bottle, there is not much to notice other than this is one of the darkest root beers I have seen.  Carbonation is not noticeable and the aroma is faint.  The brew has a sweet taste, more like a root beer barrel candy.  While I did not dislike the brew, it was just there.  There is a taste I cannot identify yet it is slightly smooth.  A slight hint of sugar and vanilla, but it is nowhere near enough for my liking.  I also think Cane Sugar for part of the sweetener may be what is missing?  I really am beginning to tell the difference in sweeteners. 

Head - 2.4 out of 3 mugs

 The head is solid with a good deal of froth.  I really resemble a real draft head.  Would make a great float!

Zip - 1.4 out of 3 mugs

 This is really a bland root beer. The carbonation is slightly above the low side. The flavor is great for washing down a meal, but it lacks the overall sensation one gets from a solid brew.

Post Consumption Impression - 1.7 out of 3 mugs

This root beer would be okay in a restaurant or at the dinner table. However, to balance out the flavor, it needs to be enjoyed with food. It would be a 2.4 with food and a 1 as a stand-alone.

Would I recommend this at 7 out of 12 mugs (4.6 out of 9 mugs without head)?

I really do not like it when they put “sugar and/or corn sweetener” in the ingredients.  Why the “or” as opposed to just picking one or the other, or both?  Overall, I would recommend this for a root beer float or with a nice burger.  I would not suggest the brew if you are just sitting out on a cool autumn night, enjoying nature, or looking for a refreshment after a hot day outside.

OTHER REVIEWS:

Eric's - 3.5 of 5

Derek Janiak – 4.7 out of 10