Baumeister (#40 - rated 8.5 out of 12)

Legend has it that this beverage originated in 1907. The website states, “It is still made today with that same local tradition and care.” However, it is believed that the original recipe used artesian water and did not contain High-Fructose Corn Syrup. While the beverage may taste similar, the ingredients have likely changed.

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Ingredients:  

Carbonated Water, High Fructose Corn Syrup and/or Sugar, Caramel Color, Artificial and Natural Flavors, Citric Acid, Gum Acacia, and Preserved with Sodium Benzoate

Nutrition 12 oz serving (from the bottle)

170 Calories

45 mg Sodium.

43g (19%) of Daily Carbohydrates

0 mg Caffeine

5% Iron

Aroma and Flavor – 1.75 out of 3 mugs (Docked 0.5 for HFCS use)

The initial aroma is unremarkable, with a faint cinnamon note and a subtle hint of wintergreen. Upon tasting, my expectations were confirmed. The beverage presented a harmonious blend of cinnamon, wintergreen, and a touch of licorice. Notably absent was any discernible vanilla flavor, which I found to be a pleasant aspect of the drink. The overall flavor profile was well-balanced and enjoyable. However, there is a faint aftertaste that I am unable to identify, which I find somewhat unpleasant.

Head – 2.2 out of 3 mugs

The head was charming and frothy, although it completely dissipated within 30 seconds. 

Zip – 2.25 out of 3 mugs

The beverage exhibits slightly elevated carbonation, which may contribute to a perception of a more pronounced bite than its flavor profile suggests. This is a well-balanced combination of carbonation and taste.

Post Consumption Impression – 2.25 out of 3 mugs

This brew exhibits a notable improvement in its overall quality compared to my usual assessments. Its distinctiveness and the diverse flavor profile contribute to a positive impression among most consumers. However, it is essential to emphasize that the brew does not reach the pinnacle of excellence.

 

Would I recommend this at 8.25 out of 12 mugs?

This beverage may be an ideal choice for a summer barbecue gathering. Its robust flavor profile complements a wide range of dishes, making it a suitable accompaniment to meals. However, it is not recommended for consumption without a meal.

OTHER RATINGS

Eric’s Gourmet Root Beer 3.5 out of 5 barrels

Cosmo’s Root Beer reviews 5 out of 10

Root Beer Reviews Graded B

Root Beer Rundown 82 out of 100

Thirsty Dudes 4 out of 5 bottles

Wild Spur Sarsaparilla (#39 - Rated 10.4 out of 12)

This beverage is a novel discovery, with no historical or background information available online. The bottle only mentions the distribution company based in Chicago. In fact, I am uncertain of its origin, as it could have been purchased from my girlfriend’s daughter, who acquired a sample pack during the Christmas season.

Upon conducting my search, I found only nutritional information on the website “My Fitness Pal.” Notably, this beverage has a higher sodium content and provides 5 percent of the daily recommended iron intake. This information is particularly significant given the limited background available. 

Click here for information on the rating criteria and a table of all the root beers tested or to be tested.

Ingredients: Carbonated Water, Cane Sugar, Caramel Color, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate, and Natural and Artificial flavors.

Nutrition 12 oz serving (from the bottle)

180 Calories

45 mg Sodium.

42g (19%) of Daily Carbohydrates

0 mg Caffeine

5% Iron

Aroma and Flavor – 2.75 out of 3 mugs

The aroma is reminiscent of root beer at its finest. The initial sip was satisfactory, offering a rich sarsaparilla flavor with a pronounced caramel undertone. However, if you prefer a flavor profile that extends beyond caramel, this beverage may not be to your liking. A subtle hint of vanilla would enhance the overall experience. While the absence of wintergreen or molasses flavors is not a drawback, these additional flavors would not have significantly improved the beverage.

Head – 2.5 out of 3 mugs

The head dissipated swiftly, yet it retained a certain persistence. These are indeed delicate bubbles. After 30 seconds, a minimal amount of head persists.

Zip – 2.4 out of 3 mugs

The beverage exhibits a well-balanced composition. While the carbonation is relatively low in the middle, the sodium content contributes to a heightened sense of effervescence.

Post Consumption Impression – 2.75 out of 3 mugs

Although I am certain that many individuals may not find this beverage to their liking, I enjoy it. I prefer intense root beer with caramel and vanilla flavors. As previously mentioned, the vanilla flavor is not particularly pronounced, but it still makes for an enjoyable beverage.

 

Would I recommend this at 10.4 out of 12 mugs?

I recommend that you try this beverage. It is smooth and refreshing, and it is truly unique. The only concern is where to purchase it. Please let me know if you find it.

Other Reviews

• No reviews found

Empire (#38 - Rated 6.0 out of 12)

Upon encountering the name “Empire,” my immediate association is with flooring products. The memorable advertisements that have left an indelible mark on my memory include the catchy slogan, “Call 800-588-2300, Empire Today.” However, it is essential to note that this is a beverage, not flooring.

Despite its existence since 1930, Empire has yet to gain mainstream media recognition. A comprehensive history of the company’s origins remains elusive, as no relevant information can be found online. While they maintain a Facebook page, it lacks substantial details. The page states that they are the exclusive distributor of the beverage, manufactured in Rhode Island. Beverages Direct further elaborates, saying, “The Company has been family-owned and operated since its founding in 1930 and has garnered the affection of several generations of Rhode Island residents.”

It is time to get a root beer review started!  (Click here for information on the rating criteria and a table of all the root beer tested or to be tested.)

Ingredients: Natural Artesian Spring Water, Cane Sugar, Natural and Artificial flavor extracts, Citric Acid, and Sodium Benzoate.

Nutrition 12 oz serving (from the bottle)

170 Calories

35 mg Sodium.

45g (19%) of Daily Carbohydrates

0 mg Caffeine

Aroma and Flavor – 1.75 out of 3 mugs

The aroma of this root beer is pleasant, with a subtle earthy undertone. The flavor profile is robust and dark, dominated by the distinct notes of sassafras and licorice, accompanied by a faint hint of wintergreen. Notably, there are no caramel overtones, and other unidentified spices are discernible. The aftertaste is characterized by a sticky blend of wintergreen and licorice that lingers for a long time.

Head – 0.75 out of 3 mugs  

The head was swift and diminutive. There is no further elaboration to be made on this matter.

Zip – 1.75 out of 3 mugs  

The beverage exhibits exceptionally low carbonation levels, a characteristic shared by other beverages crafted from artesian spring water. The flavor profile, however, deviates from conventional expectations, resulting in an unconventional and potentially unappealing experience.

Post Consumption Impression – 1.75 out of 3 mugs  

Although it may not be the most exceptional root beer I have ever tasted, it is certainly not the best.    

 

Would I recommend this at 6.0 out of 12 mugs?

I would not recommend this root beer to individuals who prefer heavy carbonation, vanilla, or caramel flavors, as it may be too flat and lacking in the desired taste. However, if you enjoy a woody taste and a subtle hint of high-quality dirt, this root beer may suit you.

Other Reviews

Cosmo’s Root Beer Reviews -  3 out of 10

Eric’s Gourmet Root Beer – 2.5 barrels out of 5

Anthony’s Root Beer Barrel 93 out of 100

Root Beer Respect -  5 out of 10

The Soda Jerks – “A”

Rob’s Root Beer Review – 6 out of 10

Penny Frosted - cute marketing (#37 - Rated 8.0 out of 12)

Penny Cola Company, established in 2013 in California, boasts a succinct history statement on its website: “Penny Cola was created in 2013 by some of us who were weary of consuming corn-based beverages. In essence, it is a concise and direct statement.”  Unlike others, they have a funky YouTube video.

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

Ingredients: Carbonated Water, Cane Sugar, Caramel Color, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate and natural flavors.

Nutrition 12 oz serving (from the bottle)

150 Calories

45 mg Sodium.

45g (19%) of Daily Carbohydrates

0 mg Caffeine

Aroma and Flavor – 2.25 out of 3 mugs

Upon examining the label, I observed a relatively high sodium content. I anticipated a pronounced salty taste from sodium. My initial olfactory perception was slightly medicinal, which diminished my expectations. Subsequently, I took my first sip. It deviated significantly from my expectations. It presented a harmonious blend of flavors that perplexed my palate. The sassafras and sodium aftertaste were distinct, almost excessive.

Head – 1.0 out of 3 mugs

The head rated at 1.00 is almost excessive. Despite its substantial foam, it completely disappeared from view within less than 10 seconds.

Zip – 2.25 out of 3 mugs

The beverage presents an enticing combination of flavors. Regrettably, its sodium content surpasses that of many I have encountered. Subtle notes of wintergreen and vanilla are discernible, complemented by a pronounced sassafras aftertaste.

Post Consumption Impression – 2.25 out of 3 mugs

This was a well-rounded experience. While it may not be the best, it will rank within the top 25 once I complete the 100 root beers in the pile.   

 

Would I recommend this at 8.0 out of 12 mugs?

It is worth a try as nothing is outstanding yet nothing terrible.

Other reviews

Eric’s Gourmet Root Beer – 3 of 5 barrels

Brads Brew Review – 9 out of 10