Foxon Park Root Beer (#48 tested - Rated 7.5 out of 12)

In 1922, in East Haven, Connecticut, Matteo Naclerio, an Italian immigrant, established Foxen Park. The name derives from the street on which Mr. Naclerio resided when he initiated the business. Initially, it operated as a home delivery service. Notably, the company never engaged in sales; instead, it was passed down through generations.

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

Ingredients: 

Carbonated Water, Sugar, Natural and Artificial Flavors, Caramel Color, and Sodium Benzoate Preservative.

Nutrition 12 oz serving (from the bottle)

130 Calories

75 mg Sodium.

35g (12%) of Daily Carbohydrates

0 mg Caffeine

Aroma and Flavor – 2.25 out of 3 mugs

Upon initial consumption, the beverage exudes a pleasant aroma reminiscent of Barq’s. Notably, it is the lowest-calorie drink I have evaluated to date. With a caloric content of 130 per 12-ounce serving, it ranks among the lowest in my testing. The other contenders include Red Ribbon, Bawls, and Sassy Lil Lass, all of which received lower ratings in my reviews.

The initial sip was refreshing. While the beverage was enjoyable, it lacked smoothness. The caramel flavor was discernible. The ingredient list is relatively concise, suggesting that the “natural and artificial” flavors on the bottle are not composed of many ingredients. However, a subtle aftertaste did diminish the overall enjoyment of the beverage. 

Head – 1.5 out of 3 mugs

A head with giant bubbles is present, but it dissipates quickly. After approximately 30 seconds, the presence of a head on the brew becomes imperceptible.         

Zip – 1.75 out of 3 mugs

I assume the zip is primarily sodium.  Only Henry Leonhard’s Draught Style had equal sodium.  It is a shame as the beverage has a tantalizing appeal, and I again attribute it to its high sodium content.

Post Consumption Impression – 2.0 out of 3 mugs

This is a good beverage with a meal.  Because of the aftertaste, I would not suggest this beverage for a social activity.

 

Would I recommend this at 7.5 out of 12 mugs?

Certainly, although not with the utmost enthusiasm. The low-calorie content is a positive aspect, given that this is a lovely beverage. 

OTHER RATINGS

Root Beer Respect 6 out of 10

Eric’s Gourmet Root Beer 3 out of 5 barrels

Brad’s Brew Review 6.5 out of 10

Mason’s Keg Brewed (#47 - rated 6.25 out of 12)

Mason’s, a beverage originating in Chicago in 1947, was produced by Falsetto until 1970. In 1975, PepsiCo Inc. acquired the brand through a hostile takeover. However, the Federal Trade Commission intervened, citing excessive brand ownership by PepsiCo, and compelled the company to divest some of its brands. In 1978, Monarch Beverage Company acquired Mason’s. Monarch also produced Dad’s Root Beer and Mason’s. Currently, Mason’s is available in limited markets.

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

Ingredients: 

Carbonated water, sugar, caramel color, sodium benzoate (to preserve), citric acid, natural and artificial flavors

Nutrition 12 oz serving (from the bottle)

160 Calories

50 mg Sodium.

40g (13%) of Daily Carbohydrates

0 mg Caffeine

Aroma and Flavor – 1.5 out of 3 mugs

Upon initial inspection, the beverage appears to be a commercial root beer. While it is difficult to articulate, there is a subtle artificiality to its flavor profile. The initial taste is enjoyable, yet it has a chemical quality. I am unable to provide a precise description of this sensation. The beverage lacks a harmonious blend of flavors. A faint cherry undertone suggests that it may be a cola-based version of a shrilly temple. Notably, there is no discernible caramel flavor present.

Head – 1.75 out of 3 mugs

The head is substantial, and the initial portion dissipates rapidly. The final half-inch portion has a longer duration than the average.     

Zip – 1.25 out of 3 mugs

The sole exception is when the carbonation is slightly higher than average. In that case, it would be a flat, lightly flavored sugar water without the carbonation. However, I prefer a smooth blend of flavors, which does not align with that preference.

Post Consumption Impression – 1.75 out of 3 mugs

This beverage is satisfactory, although it does not rank among the finest. I would consume it if one of my preferred options were unavailable. It resembles a slightly flat root beer, reminiscent of a father’s beverage.

 

Would I recommend this at 6.25 out of 12 mugs?

Mason’s Root Beer is worth trying, but I would not make a special effort to get it.

OTHER RATINGS

Cosmo’s Root Beer – 6 out of 10 caps

Vintage Soda – 4 out of 5 stars

Root Beer Reviews – Grade C

Handy Father – 3 out of 5

Anthony’s Root Beer Barrel – 71 out of 100

Fireman's Brew (#46 - rated 8.4 out of 12)

In December 2000, two firefighters, Rob and Ed, established their own beverage company, Fireman’s Brew. While extinguishing a brush fire above the Glendale Mountains, they sought a refreshing beverage to quench their parched throats. These two Los Angeles natives subsequently crafted beer and root beer. A portion of their profits is dedicated to “The Fallen Firefighters Foundation,” situated in Emmetsburg, Maryland. The company’s tagline reads, “Extinguish your thirst.”

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

Ingredients: Artesian spring water, pure cane sugar, caramel color, natural flavors, and citric acid.

Nutrition 12 oz serving (from the bottle)

180 Calories

25 mg Sodium.

45g (15%) of Daily Carbohydrates

0 mg Caffeine

Aroma and Flavor – 2.2 out of 3 mugs

Upon opening, the aroma is predominantly wintergreen, with a subtle licorice undertone. While these two flavors are not my personal favorites, the overall scent is not particularly exceptional. Although it may not be among the most outstanding options, it is not short of anything. My preference leans towards caramel and vanilla, which are only faintly present in this root beer. It is a generic, average root beer likely to appeal to a wide range of consumers. 

Head – 1.8 out of 3 mugs

The head was of average size and gradually dissipated. The bubbles were larger than average but not sufficiently thick to be noticeable while consuming the beverage.

Zip – 2.1 out of 3 mugs

The carbonation level is moderate, not excessively strong. It is a well-balanced blend. Is the zinginess derived from sodium? Additionally, I struggle to fully perceive all the flavors, despite their presence. The carbonation overpowers the subtle flavor combination.

Post Consumption Impression – 2.3 out of 3 mugs

This beverage is widely appreciated, yet surprisingly, it is not considered the preferred root beer choice for many individuals.

Would I recommend this at 8.4 out of 12 mugs?

I highly recommend trying the beverage. You will find it to be quite satisfying. While it does not induce an intense craving, it effectively fills the void left by root beer. As the saying goes, “Extinguish your thirst.”

Other reviews:

Root Beer Reviews B-

Cosmo’s Root Beer Reviews 7 out of 10

Eric’s Gourmet Root Beer 3.5 out of 5

Brad’s Brew Review 8.5 out of 10

Anthony’s Root Beer Barrel 90 out of 100