Capone (#9 - Rated 7.75 out of 12)

Today, I decided to sample the Capone Family Secret Root Beer. The name suggests its origin in Chicago. The bottle is dark in color and features a vintage label. 

I tried to find some background, and there is little on the web.  The only story I found was:

During the 1920's Capone's warehouses were raided by the police 137 times, eager to seize their inventory of illegal alcohol.  Only a few items were found on every raid, and it was not alcohol.  It was cases of the "Capone Family Secret" Soda.  After 80+ years, the "Secret" Soda was finally made public, so families can enjoy great sodas while experiencing a piece of history.

Upon opening the bottle, my initial thought was that this secret family recipe is safeguarded. I envisioned figures such as Vinnie Drucci, Bugs Moran, and Hymie Weiss engaged in a struggle to either protect or reveal the secret. However, I should simply open the bottle and gain a firsthand understanding of the Family Secret.

Ingredients: Carbonated Water, Sugar, Caramel Color, Sodium Benzoate (Preservative), Natural Flavor, and Citric Acid

Nutrition information from the label (Per 12 0z):

• 180 Calories  (15 per oz)
• 30mg Sodium.  (2.5 mg per oz)
• 30g sugar  (10%) of Daily Carbohydrates (2.5 g per oz)

FOUND THE FIRST SECRET… Sugar of an unknown kind is listed.  Could be they listed it generically as it is “a secret”.

Click here for rating criteria and summary table of all root beers reviewed.

Aroma and Flavor - 2.0 out of 3 mugs

Upon opening, the beverage presented a creamy aroma, subtly influenced by licorice and wintergreen. While this scent was pleasant, it was not overpowering and maintained a balanced profile. Upon taking my first sip, I also detected a medicinal undertone emanating from the bottle.

Describing the taste is a challenge. Initially, I perceived a bitter sensation, but this was not entirely accurate. The carbonation level is notably low, resulting in a sensation reminiscent of cough syrup on the tongue. I am unable to accurately compare this flavor to any other, as it possesses a highly unique character. My tongue experienced a complex array of sensations, including a spicy, light caramel flavor, a burst of vanilla, a distinctive wintergreen tingle, a dry sensation, a hint of honey, and a lingering medicinal aftertaste that prompted a desire for another drink.

This is the most difficult to score! One side gives it a 0.5 as it is so unique, yet the distinctive flavor and aftertaste make it a 3.  Since I am more inclined to try it again, it scores a 2.0 out of 3 for aroma and flavor.   

Head - 1.5 out of 3 mugs

This beverage has a compact head that is quickly consumed. It is recommended to drink it directly from the bottle.

Zip - 2.0 out of 3 mugs

This bottle contains exceptionally low carbonation. The zip mechanism is somewhat perplexing, yet it evokes a strong desire for another. Unlike any other root beer I have encountered, the zip is initially subtle but becomes the most enduring sensation of any beverage I have reviewed. Despite its lack of bite, it is surprisingly palatable.

Post Consumption Impression - 2.25 out of 3 mugs

The distinct sensation of the “secret recipe” impedes my ability to discern the specific beverage I am consuming. It appears that multiple beverages are present at any given moment. Notably, the dry sensation I experienced after drinking this root beer was quite unique. It left me feeling thirsty, which could be the primary reason for my desire to consume more. Initially, this root beer was an average beverage at best. However, as I continued to drink, I found myself savoring each sip more. This is a well-balanced brew that is designed to be enjoyed slowly, akin to a fine, dry wine.

Would I recommend this at 7.75 out of 12 mugs (6.25 out of 9 without head)?

If you seek a beverage that will provide an hour of enjoyment while engaging in conversation with friends, this is the ideal choice. Unlike other beverages that may lead to excessive calorie consumption, this drink is designed to be savored slowly, allowing you to fully appreciate its flavors and aromas. However, if you consume it quickly, you may miss out on the whole experience.  

OTHER REVIEWS:
Handy Father - 3 of 5
Fear No Root Beer - 1 of 5
Eric's - 4 of 5
Cosmo's - 3 of 9
Anthony's - 87 of 100
Root Beer Reviews - A
Thirsty Dudes - 4 of 5