Black Bear Root Beer - #100, 7 out of 12 mugs

This is another brew by Sprecher Brewing Company. Black Bear is a root beer brand that was acquired by Sprecher Brewery in 2021. Sprecher now produces Black Bear Root Beer using its signature fire-brewing process, which involves using real Wisconsin honey and natural ingredients to create a rich flavor. The brand is presented with a "legend" of a black bear and is available alongside other Sprecher sodas. 

Ingredients:

Carbonated Water, Glucose Syrup, Natural and Artificial Flavors,  Caramel Color, Gum Arabic, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate as a Preservative, Phosphoric Acid, Yucca Extract, and Propylene Glycol Alginate

Glucose Syrup, an ingredient I had never encountered before, is made from potatoes, wheat, barley, rice, and cassava.  Industrial fermentation uses glucose syrup containing over 90% glucose, while confectionery syrups vary in their glucose, maltose, and oligosaccharide content, typically ranging from 10% to 43%.  Its primary uses in food include sweetening, softening texture, and adding volume.

Nutrition 12 oz. serving (from the bottle)

 

140 Calories

30 mg Sodium.

35 g (13%) of Daily Carbohydrates

Aroma and Flavor – 2.25 out of 3 mugs

Upon opening, a rich aroma of root, vanilla, and sweetness fills the air. This delightful blend of ingredients evokes the taste of a low-carbonated Sprecher Root Beer. However, there’s a subtle hint of wintergreen and a touch of licorice that distinguishes it from Sprecher. It was enjoyable, yet for my preference a little low on carbonation.

Head – 2.0 out of 3 mugs  

 

The head is small yet dissipated slowly.  Remnants around the ice cubes remained after a few minutes.

 

Zip – 2.25 out of 3 mugs  

There is no significant zip, yet a tantalizing blend of ingredients yields a higher score.

Post Consumption Impression – 2.5 out of 3 mugs  

I enjoyed the brew.  Yet it is not ranked the highest; it is one I would enjoy anytime.

Would I recommend this at 7.0 out of 12 mugs (5 out of 9 mugs without head)?

This brew can be enjoyed alone or with a meal. The low carbonation and type of sweetness blend into a smooth beverage.

OTHER REVIEWS

Anthony’s Root Beer Barrel – 50 out of 100  

Cosmo’s Root Beer Review – 7 out of 10 

Eric’s Gourmet Root Beer – 3 of 5 barrels 

Soda Jerk