Saturday, February 13, 2016

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. 



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.


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