Pop Shoppe (#31 - Rated 5.75 out of 12)

The Pop Shoppe, a Canadian establishment founded in 1969 in London, Ontario, aimed to differentiate itself from conventional retail outlets by adopting unconventional marketing strategies. The company’s success was evident as it expanded its product line to include 30 distinct flavors across North America.

However, the competitive landscape shifted in the 1980s, leading to a decline in sales. Consequently, the Pop Shoppe closed its doors in 1983. Despite this closure, some small soft drink bottlers in the United States have utilized the millions of bottles and cases left behind to continue selling Pop Shoppe beverages.

In 2004, the company made a significant comeback by reintroducing many of its original flavors. Furthermore, in 2012, The Pop Shoppe announced a positive change by replacing corn syrup with cane sugar in all its beverages. This decision was met with approval, as evidenced by the bottle I purchased, which indicated that it was bottled in Las Angeles, California.

See more information at http://www.thepopshoppe.com/about/.

Click here for the rating criteria and a summary table of all the root beers tested.

Ingredients: 

Water, Cane Sugar, Caramel Color, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate (preservative), Propylene Glycol, Natural and Artificial Flavor, and Phosphoric Acid.

Nutrition 12 oz serving (from the bottle)

180 Calories

20 mg Sodium.

46g (15%) of Daily Carbohydrates

0 mg Caffeine

Aroma and Flavor – 1.5 out of 3 mugs

The aroma was a blend of indistinct scents. Upon initial consumption, a creamy sensation accompanied a subtle fruity undertone. Juicy Fruit gum possesses a more pronounced fruity flavor. This beverage deviates from the traditional definition of root beer, exhibiting characteristics reminiscent of stale Barq’s and Dr. Pepper. Although it carries a faint root beer essence, the aftertaste is more akin to a poorly made Coca-Cola. 

Head – 1.5 out of 3 mugs

The head exhibits a frothy texture with exceedingly fine bubbles. It rapidly diminished to a diminutive quantity near the rim, which persisted for an extended period. Based on my subsequent research (conducted through a web search), could the propylene glycol be the distinguishing factor?

Zip – 1.25 out of 3 mugs

Zip is remarkably flavorless, as I am unable to ascertain the specific flavor blend used in this beverage. The peculiar aftertaste was a significant deterrent. It possesses a distinctly chemical taste with reduced carbonation.    

Post Consumption Impression – 1.5 out of 3 mugs

This is a soda. I am unable to determine its specific variety, but as a diverse range of flavors, I did not identify any common origin, such as vanilla or caramel.

Would I recommend this at 5.75 out of 12 mugs?

It is worth a try, but I will pass on it unless there are a few options.

Other Reviews

Eric’s Gourmet Root Beer – 3.5 of 5

Root Beer Reviews  B-
Alliray Review 2.5 out of 5

Dorothy's Isle of Pines (#30 - Rated 5.0 out of 12)

Dorothy Molter, residing in Ely, Minnesota, is the originator of this distinctive root beer. As a North Dakota native, I had long heard of the “Root Beer Lady” but never had the opportunity to visit her establishment. However, several years ago, an acquaintance gifted me a bottle of her root beer (before her passing), which I found satisfactory. While it may not have been the finest, it possessed a unique flavor profile that was not overly artificial.

Upon examining the bottle, I immediately discerned that this would not be the same. Since Dorothy’s passing, it appears that the beverage has been commercialized and adulterated with High Fructose Corn Syrup and other artificial ingredients. This is a regrettable development. 

Click here for the rating criteria and a table of all the root beers tested.

Ingredients: 

Water, Sugar and High Fructose Corn Sweetener, Natural and Artificial Flavor, Caramel Color, Sodium Benzoate (preservative), Citric Acid, Acacia and Quillaia Extract

Nutrition 12 oz serving (from the bottle)

160 Calories

18 mg Sodium.

46g (15%) of Daily Carbohydrates

0 mg Caffeine

Aroma and Flavor – 1.5 out of 3 mugs

Upon opening the bottle, I was immediately struck by a distinct commercial root beer aroma, reminiscent of Barq’s. The initial sip presented a mixed experience, oscillating between enjoyment and disappointment. A peculiar aftertaste lingered, evoking a memory of a similar sensation I had encountered in the past. Upon further investigation, I discovered that this aftertaste was characteristic of Acacia, a beverage also offered by Big Bens. Notably, Acacia received a score of 4 out of 12.

As I grappled with the mixed emotions surrounding my positive impression of Big Bens, I found myself equally conflicted about this particular brew. It left me more perplexed than disappointed or exhilarated.

Head – 1 out of 3 mugs

The head was not particularly noteworthy. It vanished within less than 15 seconds, leaving no indication of its existence, even at the rim. This may be an excellent root beer for a float.

Zip – 1.0 out of 3 mugs

There is nothing particularly distinctive or unique about a spice blend or carbonation. In fact, I prefer the lower end of carbonation. At best, the Acacia is the only notable spice. Even the stated caramel flavor is quite subtle.

Post Consumption Impression – 1.5 out of 3 mugs

This root beer lacked any distinctive characteristics. Regrettably, the individual who acquired the rights to the beverage utilized HFCS, which alone compromised its flavor profile. 

Would I recommend this at 5.0 out of 12 mugs?

Although I recommend you try it, I suggest doing so with the purchase of a single bottle. You may find yourself missing the rest of a six-pack.

Other reviews

Eric’s Gourmet Root Beer – 2 of 5

Root Beer Reviews  C+

Cosmo’s  4 of 10 IBC’s

Thirsty Dudes 3 of 5