In 1935, during the Great Depression, the Janik brothers (Stephen, Walter, and John) established the Johnnie Ryan Bottling Company in Niagara Falls, New York. Initially, they bottled water under the moniker Keystone Water Company in five-gallon containers for nearby plants and offices during a period when Niagara Falls was a thriving electrochemical industrial hub.
One of the brothers, Walter, was employed as a Coca-Cola delivery truck driver. In 1935, the Coca-Cola Company discontinued its line of multi-flavored beverages to focus on the cola business. This decision led the Janiks to enter the local bottle-flavored soda market.
As a marketing strategy, the brothers opted to sell their soda in 10-ounce bottles rather than 7-ounce bottles. They renamed the company Extra Bottling Company. Subsequently, John Janik decided to give the company an Irish name to enhance its appeal and attract more business. After considering various name options, he selected “Johnnie Ryan,” which incorporated the names of both of his eldest sons.
The ownership was passed to a second generation, consisting of a second John Janik (who died in 1994), Ron Janik, and their brother Paul, the father of the current owners.
Johnnie Ryan beverages are produced entirely on-site in Niagara Falls. The workforce comprises Paul, John, and two additional employees. John is responsible for preparing the syrup mixture and overseeing warehouse and production operations. Paul manages sales, product development, and vendor relations.
Johnnie Ryan beverages have gained popularity for their commitment to quality and use of premium ingredients. The company’s website states that Johnnie Ryan root beer is still crafted with the finest extracts and flavorings available, and is sweetened with 100% pure cane sugar.
The syrup emanating from the bottle possessed a strong odor and exhibited a slight bitterness. However, the immediate scent gradually diminishes, giving way to a licorice and wintergreen aroma.
The most prominent flavors are honey and vanilla. A distinct medicinal element is discernible. While the traditional wintergreen and licorice flavors are robust, a subtle hint of honey and vanilla is present. This is a pure cane sugar-based soda, and its origin is unmistakably evident. It is characterized by its sweetness and a diverse array of flavors. I have assigned this soda a score of 1.5, as I prefer a reduced amount of wintergreen and a more complex flavor profile.
Upon being poured into my tall, frosty mug, a tall head dissipates rapidly within seconds.
Medium-low carbonation levels offer a harmonious blend of smoothness and a subtle bite. The diverse range of flavors contributes to its distinctive sensory experience. Personally, a slight reduction in the wintergreen flavor would have enhanced the overall beverage.
Initially, I anticipated a medicinal horror. However, the peculiar aroma resulted in a delectable yet unusual root beer. I appreciate its smoothness, albeit with a pronounced medicinal undertone. It harmoniously blends honey and vanilla with the wintergreen and licorice flavors. This is an ideal choice for those who enjoy smooth root beers with diverse flavor combinations.
If you enjoy smooth root beers with diverse flavor combinations, this product is a suitable choice. However, it had a medicinal taste. Nevertheless, I would consider purchasing it again over most commercial brands such as Barq’s, A&W, or Dad’s.
Anthony’s Root Beer Barrel – 77 out of 100
Cosmo’s Root Beer Review – 2 out of 10
Eric’s Gourmet Root Beer – 3.5 of 5 barrels
Root Beer Respect – 8 out of 10
Reviews for the rest of us – B-
Steve’s Root Beer – 6.56 out of 10
Thirsty Dudes – 3 out of 5
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