Tuesday, February 7, 2017

Red Arrow (#65 Rated 6.5 of 12)

Red Arrow Root Beer is another retro root beer brand developed by Orca Beverage, based in Mukilteo, Washington. Orca Beverage also produces Brownie, Fristie, Dad’s, Earps, and other beverages.


Although the beverage has been re-created by Orca, the original trademark for Red Arrow Root Beer originates in Michigan. Memorabilia with Red Arrow Bottling, Detroit, MI, notations can still be found. Although the exact origins of the original name and concept are unknown, based on the timing and logo reference, it is strongly assumed that they are correlated with the Red Arrow Brigade, formed in 1967. The Red Arrow infantry brigade is a unit of the United States Army National Guard and consists of three battalions of light infantry, as well as support and engineer units.


According to Orca Beverage President Mike Bourgeois, “The logo used on Red Arrow Root Beer is similar to the arrow tip on the original Red Arrow Brigade shoulder patch. The arrow has an elongated triangular tip with downward sloping outer tips.” He acknowledges that the logo is not a definitive link but finds it interesting.



Ingredients: 

Carbonated water, cane sugar, natural and artificial flavors, caramel color, phosphoric acid, extract of wintergreen and licorice, sodium benzoate (a preservative)

Nutrition 12 oz. serving (from the bottle)

160 Calories
65 mg Sodium.
43 g (14%) of Daily Carbohydrates
0 mg Caffeine

Aroma and Flavor – 1.5 out of 3 mugs

The aroma and flavor were both sweet, with a hint of wintergreen and a subtle black licorice flavoring. While it was not particularly unpleasant, it was average at best. There was a creamy aftertaste that I generally enjoy, though the excessive sweetness diminished it.


Head –1.5 out of 3 mugs

A robust head but lacking in staying power. It was consumed within less than 30 seconds, leaving no trace. 


Zip – 1.75 out of 3 mugs

The beverage is characterized by its watery consistency and sweet taste, complemented by a subtle, commercial-like root beer flavor. This suggests that the flavor profile was likely developed in a laboratory setting, utilizing chemical compounds to create a fabricated taste rather than relying on natural ingredients. Additionally, a faint anise flavor is present, accompanied by an elusive aftertaste that remains difficult to identify.


Post Consumption Impression – 1.75 out of 3 mugs

I would appreciate it if the sugar content were reduced by half. While I would consider purchasing it again, there are several other brands that I prefer over Red Arrow.

 
Would I recommend this at 6.5 out of 12 mugs?

If you prefer a sweet root beer with artificial flavoring, you may want to consider trying it. Otherwise, you can explore other options available on the aisle.


OTHER RATINGS
  – 5.9 out of 10 

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