Thomas Kemper Small Batch (#10 - Rated 7.8 out of 12)

Since 1989, the Thomas Kemper Brewing Company, one of the Northwest's first Microbreweries, has held an annual Oktoberfest celebration at its brewery. Starting out as a small event, the Thomas Kemper Oktoberfest soon added thousands of extra people to Poulsbo, WA, each autumn. Andy Thomas and Will Kemper first brewed Thomas Kemper Soda as an alternative to Oktoberfest beer in 1990. 

The bottle reads, “One honey of a Root Beer.  This wonderfully rich and complex Root Beer was first brewed for our Oktoberfest company in 1990.  It quickly became such a hit that we invented Novemberfest.”

Click here for rating criteria and a table of all brews reviewed.

Ingredients: carbonated water, cane sugar, maltodextrin, honey, caramel color, natural flavor, sodium benzoate (for freshness), gum acacia, phosphoric acid, salt, and vanilla extract.

  

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

• 160 Calories  (13.75 per oz)
• 45mg Sodium.  (3.75 mg per oz)
• 40g sugar  (10%) of Daily Carbohydrates (3.75 g per oz)

Aroma and Flavor - Scores 2 out of 3 mugs (average of 3 aroma and 1 for flavor)

This beverage exudes a distinct and inviting aroma, initially evoking the impression of aver, upo uponting, I e encounteredlight disappointment. The body of the drink is somewhat soft, characterized by a dominant honey and fruit-like flavor profile. It resembles a root beer-flavored juicy fruit gum beverage, akin to Juicy Fruit gum. While it offers a pleasant initial experience, its flavor diminishes rapidly.

Head - Scored 2.8 out of 3 mugs

Upon pouring into a glass, the head is characterized by its exceptional height and frothy texture. This is the most esteemed aspect of the beverage.

Zip - Scores 1.5 out of 3 mugs

Although this root beer is exceptionally flavorful, it lacks a distinct bite and fails to provide a long-lasting sensory experience. The carbonation is minimal, and beyond the honey and fruitiness, there is little to appreciate.

Post Consumption Impression - Scores 1.5 out of 3 mugs

The beverage begins with a strong initial impression, but upon further consumption, it fails to deliver a truly remarkable experience. While I may consider drinking it again if faced with a choice between commercial brands such as Barq’s or A&W, the latter’s offerings do not provide a compelling alternative.

Would I recommend this at 7.8 out of 12 mugs (5 out of 9 without head)?

I highly recommend this beverage if you prefer a taste of honey and fruity root beer. While I would not rush to purchase it, I would not hesitate to enjoy it over any High-Fructose Corn Syrup option.

Other Reviews

• Eric’s Gourmet Root Beer –  3 of 5 barrels
• Anthony’s Root Beer Barrel – 91 out of 100