GUS Root Beer - #72, 5.5 out of 12

Grown Up Soda (GUS) was established in 2003 by Steve Harsh and Jeannette Luoh, a former real estate attorney. The company’s website states that the founders and their friends sought a beverage that was not overly sweet, unlike the prevalent options at the time.

Following the collapse of the company for which Mr. Harsh worked in 2001, the consumer packaged goods industry veteran sought to re-enter the field. After nine months of extensive searching, he only secured one job interview. Frustrated and uncertain about his future, Mr. Harsh rekindled a childhood interest in selling his food product. He had always desired hot sauce, and in 2003, he released four of the eleven flavors that he and Ms. Luo had created in their kitchen.

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

Ingredients: 

Purified sparkling water, cane sugar, birch oil, and other natural flavors, caramel color (from sugar), quillaja, citric acid.

The label is crooked.

Nutrition 12 oz. serving (from the bottle)

98 Calories

10 mg Sodium.

24 g (8%) of Daily Carbohydrates

0 mg Caffeine

Aroma and Flavor –  1.0 out of 3 mugs

This low-calorie soda is described as “dry.” I have encountered the ingredient “quillaja” in my reviews of Boots Sarsaparilla and Tree Fort (both of which received low ratings). Still, I am uncertain about its purpose or flavor profile.

Upon opening the bottle, I was pleasantly surprised by the sweet aroma. After consuming the first sip, I realized that Mr. Harch might appreciate this beverage. It resembled the root beer stevia drops commonly used in seltzer water. While it was satisfactory, it lacked any complexity or memorable qualities. It had a slightly medicinal undertone, which was due to the Quillaja.

Head – 2.5 out of 3 mugs  

The beverage produced a substantial foam and exhibited a slow rate of dissipation. Notably, this is the sole positive aspect of my review.

Zip – 1.0 out of 3 mugs

The beverage lacks a distinct flavor profile. It is characterized by its simplicity and smoothness, complemented by a refreshing carbonation that provides a subtle zing. 

Post Consumption Impression – 1.0 out of 3 mugs

This beverage is a commendable attempt at creating a low-calorie carbonated drink, though it falls short of my preferred choices among a wide variety of options.    

 

Would I recommend this at 5.25 out of 12 mugs?

This is your beverage if you grew up with mineral water or seltzer in juice and desire it slightly higher in carbonation. If you are looking for a solid flavor mix that tantalizes your tongue, I would suggest others. While it scores 5.25 out of 12, if you remove the head score, this brew in in the bottom 10 on the list of reviews to date).

OTHER RATINGS

Derek Janiak – 0.1 out of 10 

Root Beer Reviews – D-

Eric’s Gourmet Root Beer 1.5 of 5 barrels