Dog n Suds (#12 - Rated 9.0 out of 12)

This root beer originated from an in-car (A&W style) drive-in restaurant. The first Dog n Suds was opened in 1953 in Champaign, Illinois. Two University of Illinois music teachers, James Griggs and Don Hamacher, founded the chain. The chain expanded, and a training center was established in Champaign, named “Rover College” after the dog on the restaurant sign. At its peak, there were over 500 restaurants.

In the early 1970s, the franchise was sold, leading to the abandonment of the business. Approximately a dozen Dog n Suds restaurants still exist in Illinois and Ohio. The Dog n Suds brand of root beer was subsequently sold to a private bottler, who currently bottles it for Clover Club Bottling Corporation in Illinois.

Click here for a list of all root beers tested and rating criteria.)

Ingredients: 

Carbonated Water, High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS), Caramel Color, Phosphoric Acid, Sodium Benzoate (as a preservative), Natural and Artificial Color

Nutrition information from the label (Per 8 0z):

• 110 Calories  (13.75 per oz)
• 30mg Sodium.  (3.75 mg per oz)
• 30g sugar  (10%) of Daily Carbohydrates (3.75 g per oz)

Aroma and Flavor -- 2.2 out of 3

The use of high fructose corn syrup caused me to lower the score by 0.5. (So, it's really a 2.7 because I did not like the HFCS use.)

Upon opening the bottle, the aroma is immediately reminiscent of solid root beer. However, to my disappointment, there is no discernible vanilla scent. Upon the first sip, I found the beverage to be rich and creamy. It possesses a subtle vanilla flavor with a more pronounced caramel flavor. The overall flavor profile is unremarkable, comparable to many mass-produced root beers. While the lighter carbonation is characteristic of HFCS-based mass-produced root beers, which are typically excessively carbonated, the syrupy texture is easily noticeable and tends to linger for an extended period after consumption. 

  

Head -- 2.5 out of 3

The head of a drive-in root beer is characterized by its substantial sudsiness, which is a desirable attribute. However, the carbonation balance plays a crucial role in shaping the overall experience, and I particularly appreciate the head’s contribution to this balance.

Zip -- 1.9 out of 3

In this category, the beverage falls short. While its carbonation is slightly higher, it fails to compensate for the absence of a creative flavor profile. Achieving this balance is challenging, and based on my preferences, the beverage could be improved.

Post Consumption Impression -- 2.4 out of 3

This beverage would be an excellent accompaniment to a hot dog. While the name may suggest otherwise, it offers a unique experience by combining the flavors of a chili dog with the refreshing taste of root beer. However, it failed to quench my thirst and left a lingering syrupy aftertaste that caused dryness in my mouth. While I would not hesitate to try this beverage if it were available, there are other options that I find to be my personal favorites.

Would I recommend this at 9 out of 12 mugs?

The Aftertaste also possesses a commendable quality. This root beer is undeniably enjoyable, although it could potentially be enhanced. It is reasonable to assume that it significantly differed from the commercial brand I encountered today when it was initially produced. 

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