Monday, May 30, 2016

Not just any old root beer! (#36 - Rated 6.75 out of 12)

Joe’s Root Beer is a unique beverage produced by Joseph James Brewery, located in Henderson, Nevada, a suburb of Las Vegas. Joseph James, a beer connoisseur, ventured into the root beer industry, much like many other breweries. Established in 2008, the brewery has a relatively short history, with limited information available online.



Ingredients: Carbonated Water, Cane Sugar, Color and natural flavors, Honey and Vanilla.

Nutrition 12 oz serving (from the bottle)

190 Calories
35 mg Sodium.
57g (19%) of Daily Carbohydrates
0 mg Caffeine
Calcium 4%

Aroma and Flavor – 1.5 out of 3 mugs

Upon opening the bottle, I anticipated a solid root beer. However, the aroma is more reminiscent of beer than root beer. Upon tasting, it is evident that carbonated water, vanilla, and honey are the primary ingredients, with minimal other components. This is expected given that these are two of the five total ingredients.


While the beverage is enjoyable, the flavor profile I associate with root beer is lacking. While I appreciate the vanilla flavor, it is not without the distinct root flavor of a well-crafted sarsaparilla. Notably, this beverage has a higher sodium content, ranking second among the root beers I reviewed, even though it is natural.


Head – 2.5 out of 3 mugs  

The head was indeed thought-provoking and remarkable, but its existence was brief. Within a mere 30 seconds, it had diminished to a mere fragment of its former perfection.


Zip – 1.25 out of 3 mugs  

This beverage is simple in its ingredients, with minimal carbonation. If the carbonation were increased, I would likely perceive it as a vanilla- and honey-flavored seltzer.


Post Consumption Impression – 1.5 out of 3 mugs  

This was not terrible, but it was not worth another try for me.
 
Would I recommend this at 6.75 out of 12 mugs?

If you prefer a bland root beer with low carbonation and honey and vanilla, try it.

Sunday, May 22, 2016

The Three Stooges Wise Guy (#35 - Rated 6.75 out of 12)

This is another creation from Rocket Fizz, a soda maker known for producing numerous varieties of soda. While Rocket Fizz is primarily recognized for its diverse candy line, which some estimate has over 4,000 varieties, its unique sodas represent a niche market. A web search revealed that Rocket Fizz has produced over 500 soda varieties throughout its history, although not all are directly under the Rocket Fizz parent company’s umbrella. I already reviewed Judge Wapner's Root Beer and Gene Aurty’s Root Beer.


A quote from Robert Powell, President and Co-Founder of Rocket Fizz Soda Pop and Candy Shops, encapsulates the excitement surrounding the launch of “The Three Stooges Wise Guy Root Beer.” Powell, who recently appeared as the “undercover boss” on the CBS hit television show “Undercover Boss,” expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration. He stated, “Rocket Fizz is beyond excited to bottle ‘The Three Stooges Wise Guy Root Beer.’ The Three Stooges brand is a natural fit for us. The Three Stooges is an iconic and nostalgic American brand, and Rocket Fizz prides itself on being all about Americana. And we all love The Three Stooges!”




Ingredients: Spring Water, Cane Sugar, Citric Acid, Ester Gum, Caramel Color, and Natural Flavors.

Nutrition 12 oz serving (from the bottle)

170 Calories
25 mg Sodium.
43g (14%) of Daily Carbohydrates
0 mg Caffeine

Aroma and Flavor – 1.5 out of 3 mugs

Upon opening, a strong wintergreen aroma was immediately detected. The scent was somewhat overpowering, accompanied by a subtle molasses or licorice aroma. After consuming my first sip, the beverage revealed a relatively simple flavor profile. It lacked a distinct overall taste and seemed watered down. Notably, it had a unique flavor that deviated from traditional root beer. Could the presence of Ester Gum be the source of this distinct flavor? I was unfamiliar with the composition of Ester Gum.


Interestingly, upon searching online, I discovered that Ester Gum is commonly used in paints, lacquers, and varnishes. However, it is widely recognized as an ingredient to avoid in beverages. One individual expressed skepticism, stating, “People who believe this could not be further from the truth. Through extensive and meticulous research, I have come to the conclusion that it is, in fact, a remarkable substance with transformative and healing properties.” While I acknowledge the individual’s claims, I must exercise caution due to the additional assertion that they have successfully injected individuals with severe injuries, such as broken legs, and expedited their recovery. 


Head – 2.5 out of 3 mugs

This beverage exhibits an exceptionally foamy texture, with its head persisting for approximately one minute before gradually dissipating, although it never entirely disappears.


Zip – 1.5 out of 3 mugs

This beverage lacks any distinct flavor profile beyond licorice or wintergreen. A faint hint of vanilla is also discernible. The carbonation level was light to moderate, resulting in a somewhat diluted sensation. Additionally, the sodium content was noticeable, which was the first time I perceived a beverage with a higher sodium concentration.


Post Consumption Impression – 1.25 out of 3 mugs  

Although not exceptional, the beverage did not stand out either. My evaluation of the beverage was slightly below average. The only factor contributing to its higher score was the presence of a substantial, long-lasting foamy head.

  
Would I recommend this at 6.75 out of 12 mugs? (4.25 without the head!)

I recommend trying this beverage, but only if you are willing. It did not appeal to my taste preferences. While I enjoy caramel, root flavors, and a well-crafted vanilla punch, the Three Stooges is not a suitable beverage for me.

Other Reviews