Towne Club Root Beer (#45 - Rated 8.0 out of 12)

This Michigan-based brand is crafted using authentic cane sugar. Established in 1960 as a cost-effective alternative to prominent brands, it experienced a period of prosperity. However, its market share has declined, leading to widespread speculation that it may eventually cease operations altogether. 

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

Ingredients: Carbonated Water, Pure Cane Sugar, Caramel Color, Natural and Artificial Flavors, Sodium Benzoate (preservative), Citric Acid, and Phosphoric Acid.

Nutrition 16 oz serving (from the bottle)

180 Calories

40 mg Sodium.

50g (18%) of Daily Carbohydrates

0 mg Caffeine

Aroma and Flavor – 2.2 out of 3 mugs

Upon opening the screw-top bottle, a subtle aroma wafts.

Initially, I found the taste pleasant, but it lacked distinctiveness. It is comparable to Ramblin Root Beer, characterized by its sweet mid-range body. The sweetness is undeniable, and the flavor profile is challenging to replicate, which contributes to its higher rating. 

Head – 1.4 out of 3 mugs

The head is diminutive, characterized by exceedingly delicate bubbles that gradually dissipate. After 30 seconds, there was negligible or no residual.

Zip – 2.1 out of 3 mugs

The overall carbonation and flavor are satisfactory, but not exceptional. This beverage is not intended to be a premium brew, but rather an average commercial cane sugar beverage.

Post Consumption Impression – 2.3 out of 3 mugs

This commercial-style beverage is one that I would purchase again. It would be an excellent choice for a hot summer day when you desire a refreshing beverage or when paired with a bratwurst. However, root beer is not a social drink.

Would I recommend this at 8.0 out of 12 mugs?

As I increased my consumption of the beverage, my preference for it grew. While this did not significantly elevate the overall score, it is worth noting that if you grill bratwursts on a hot day, a Towne Club can be an excellent accompaniment to complete a satisfying meal.

Other Reviews

Eric’s Gourmet Root Beer 3 of 5 barrels

Saw-Whet Root Beers 5 out of 10

Anthony’s Root Beer Barrel 83 out of 100

Dublin Texas Root Beer (#44 - Rated 10.2 out of 12)

Dublin Bottling Works was established in 1891, but before that, in Waco, Texas, Wade Morrison’s Old Corner Drug Store pharmacist, Charles Alderton, recognized the appeal of the aroma emanating from the soda fountain. This observation led him to invent Dr Pepper. Subsequently, Bill Kloster, driven by intuition, elevated Dr Pepper to a leading producer in per capita consumption. Consequently, he earned the moniker “Mr. Dr Pepper” from the media.

At one point, economic considerations prompted the substitution of pure cane sugar with more cost-effective corn sweeteners. However, Bill Kloster steadfastly refutes any instances where Dr Pepper plants engaged in such practices, as they were in violation of his stringent standards for a beverage.

Bill Kloster consistently maintained a presence at the Dr Pepper plant. Tragically, his wife of 54 years passed away in 1995. Bill Kloster succumbed to a sudden illness on September 27, 1999, following a full day at the bottling facility. Despite the passage of time, history suggests that the company continues to prioritize the quality of its beverages over economic considerations. Nevertheless, Dr Pepper has since been discontinued from their product line. 

See YouTube videos about the history here: https://youtu.be/MPhXUv139mc, https://youtu.be/4asknRNmhHQ, and https://youtu.be/k64-Il4xvTw.

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

Ingredients: 

Carbonated water, pure cane sugar, caramel color, natural and artificial flavors, sodium benzoate (preserves freshness), phosphoric acid, citric acid.

Nutrition 12 oz serving (from the bottle)

160 Calories

30 mg Sodium.

42g (14%) of Daily Carbohydrates

0 mg Caffeine

Aroma and Flavor – 2.8 out of 3 mugs

Upon opening, the initial aroma of this brew was reminiscent of sweet root beer with a subtle wintergreen undertone. I was eagerly anticipating the experience of tasting this beverage. Upon the first sip, I recognized its appeal to Dr. Pepper enthusiasts. The drink presented as a smooth, creamy concoction, infused with a hint of caramel and a faint licorice note. I thoroughly enjoyed the beverage.

Head – 2.4 out of 3 mugs

The head, golden and frothy, reduced its average speed to a point where it was eliminated entirely.

Zip – 2.5 out of 3 mugs

Carbonation provides most of the beverage’s effervescence. The blend of spices is noteworthy and resembles those commonly found in the most popular root beers. Although this beverage scored slightly higher, it exhibits a typical root beer effervescence.

Post Consumption Impression – 2.5 out of 3 mugs

Although the carbonation and sodium levels are slightly elevated, I thoroughly enjoyed this beverage. Each subsequent sip enhanced my experience, and upon completion, I searched for a second bottle in the refrigerator, but unfortunately, I found none. Nevertheless, I am confident that I will not hesitate to purchase this product again.

 

Would I recommend this at 10.2 out of 12 mugs?

Please try the beverage. While I found it enjoyable, it was also quite a commercial root beer with similar carbonation and flavor. However, it was made using pure cane sugar.

Other Reviews

Eric’s Gourmet Root Beer 3 of 5 barrels

Cosmos Root Beer Review 5 of 10 caps

Robs Root Beer Review 8 out of 10

The Root Beer Garden C-

Anthony’s Root Beer Barrel 82 out of 100

NORKA, Akron backwards! (#43)

NORKA, a handcrafted sparkling beverage company based in Akron, Ohio, was founded by Jacob Paquin in 1924. After Prohibition, breweries commonly transitioned to producing soft drinks. As part of the competition, Paquin established NORKA, a factory that cleverly incorporated the word “NORKA” into its name.

During its peak production period, NORKA produced 24,000 bottles daily. However, the company ceased operations in 1962, marking the end of nearly four decades of soft drink history.

In 2022, Michael Considine, an Akron native, revived the brand. NORKA now produces a gluten- and caffeine-free beverage that is also low in sodium.

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

Ingredients: 

Carbonated water, Cane Sugar, Natural Flavor, Caramel Color, Lactic Acid, Potassium Sorbate (Preserves freshness), Sodium Benzoate (Preserves freshness).

Nutrition 12 oz serving (from the bottle)

170 Calories

15 mg Sodium.

45g (15%) of Daily Carbohydrates

0 mg Caffeine

Aroma and Flavor – 2.75 out of 3 mugs

This beverage had a subtle aroma. Initially, I was uncertain about its characteristics. Upon tasting, I found it to be quite enjoyable. However, I noticed an unusual aftertaste, which was almost bitter. This unexpected sensation prompted me to question the quality of the beverage. I decided to take another sip and experienced the same phenomenon. The beverage is creamy and smooth, with a distinct vanilla flavor that sets it apart from vanilla cream soda. Overall, I found it to be quite pleasant.

Head – 2.5 out of 3 mugs

The head was notably foamy and dissipated rapidly. I appreciate the balance achieved.

Zip – 2.5 out of 3 mugs

This distinctive beverage offers a unique sensory experience that differs from the initial sip, throughout the drink, and even after the final sip. The carbonation is meticulously balanced, resulting in a refreshing, crisp taste. While some may find the beverage's sharpness an acquired taste, I found it enjoyable.

Post Consumption Impression – 2.5 out of 3 mugs

This root beer was a complex beverage that elicited both positive and negative emotions. Despite its shortcomings, it left a lingering sense of curiosity and a desire for more. It is a noteworthy experience. Please explore others' opinions on this matter.

 

Would I recommend this at 10.3 out of 12 mugs?

YES, I WOULD!  I will look for this again.  Of the 45 root beers I reviewed, this is in the top 5!

Other Reviews

Eric’s Gourmet Root Beer 3 of 5 barrels

Anthony’s Root Beer Barrel 74 out of 100

Saw Whet Root Beers 8 out of 10

Brad’s Brew Review 8.5 out of 10

Meyers Avenue Red Root Beer (#42)

Not a root beer! That is all you need to read, but if you desire more information, please continue reading.

It took me longer than it should have to locate information on this beverage. Even the manufacturer's website failed to load (www.cripplecreekbrewing.com). I discovered that the name was trademarked in 2011 by Michael Lynn and subsequently abandoned in 2012.

The root beer store has a long history, but it seems exaggerated. Other reviews claim that this was an excellent beverage that altered recipes and ultimately destroyed them. One reviewer even compared the ingredients on two bottles (an older and a newer one) and found they differed, yet the company claimed there was no change. This is an unusual history and information. 

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

Ingredients: 

Carbonated Water, High Fructose Corn Syrup, Caramel Color, Natural And Artificial Flavors, Phosphoric Acid, Sodium Benzoate (Preservative), Potassium Sorbate and Molasses.

Nutrition 12 oz serving (from the bottle)

180 Calories

15 mg Sodium.

45g (15%) of Daily Carbohydrates

0 mg Caffeine

Aroma and Flavor – 1.25 out of 3 mugs (Docked 0.5 for HFCS)

Initially, the lid nearly detached due to a poor seal, resulting in a sour and sappy odor. Consequently, I was apprehensive about the first sip. Upon pouring, the beverage exhibited a pale color, reminiscent of cream soda.

The aroma is overpowering, and the taste is a combination of slightly fruity and sour notes. An undesirable aftertaste lingered. Notably, a cinnamon accent and molasses were discernible. Overall, the flavors are distinct but require improved integration. This soda leans more towards being a unique beverage rather than a traditional root beer. There is no discernible root-beer flavor. 

Head – 2.25 out of 3 mugs

This brew boasts an exceptional head. However, the head’s dissipation proved to be a significant drawback, as it was preferable to consume the brew after the head had dissipated. This factor slightly diminishes the overall score.

Zip – 1.25 out of 3 mugs

The carbonation level is low. The distinctive spice blend lacks the characteristic root beer flavor. 

Post Consumption Impression – 1.0 out of 3 mugs

This beverage was distinct from root beer. However, a combination of root beer, Coca-Cola, and iced tea could yield a similar outcome, potentially enhancing the overall taste.

 

Would I recommend this at 5.75 out of 12 mugs?

If you are seeking a distinctive soda without root beer flavor, this product may be of interest. However, the exceptionally low carbonation and sour aroma were not to my liking, and I will refrain from purchasing this beverage in the future.

Other reviews

Root Beer Reviews Grade F

Cosmo’s Root Beer Reviews  7 out of 10

Eric’s Gourmet Root Beer 1.5 of 5 barrels

Stark Raving Root Beer 2 of 5

Thirsty Dudes 4 out of 5 bottles

Saw Whet Root Beers  10 out of 10

Brad’s Brew Review 9 out of 10

Jack Black's Dead Red (#41 - Rated 9.0 out of 12)

The third time available in 420 Years? Really? I was unsure what to expect. I initially prepared the hyperlinks at the bottom and observed the scores scattered throughout. Does it suggest a love-hate relationship with root beer?

The presentation is a brown glass bottle adorned with a whimsical cartoon pirate and two swords on the dark label. The cap reads, “Once you’ve Jacked Black, you’ll never go back. Better dead red and just plain dead.” The overall presentation is somewhat eccentric.

Jack Black’s Dead Red Root Beer is caffeinated. The ingredients emulate an energy drink, incorporating Brazilian guarana, herbs, extracts, and, ultimately, cane sugar.

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

Ingredients: 

Carbonated Water, Cane Sugar, Caramel Color, Caffeine, Brazilian Guarana, Sodium Benzoate (Preservative), Phosphoric Acid, African Capsicum, Natural And Artificial Flavors, Red #40.

Nutrition 12 oz serving (from the bottle)

After a thorough 15-minute search online, I was unable to find any nutritional information on the bottle or its website. The product’s packaging indicated that I should contact the provided 1-800 number for nutritional guidance. However, when I attempted to reach this number, I encountered an unanswered line.

Aroma and Flavor – 2.5 out of 3 mugs

Upon opening, the anise, horehound, and vanilla flavors are immediately discernible. The beverage exudes a pleasant and inviting aroma. The blend possesses a subtle medicinal undertone. The initial sip reveals a harmonious blend of sweet and creamy vanilla, complemented by traditional root beer flavors. This combination aligns with my personal preferences. As the second drink is consumed, the intense guarana and other spices become more pronounced. The longer the beverage is savored, the more pronounced the medicinal flavor becomes.

Head – 2.25 out of 3 mugs

The head was frothy but diminutive. It took significantly more than a minute to completely dissipate.

Zip – 2.0 out of 3 mugs

The carbonation level is lower than anticipated. A well-balanced blend of spices makes this a distinctive and enjoyable beverage.

Post Consumption Impression – 2.25 out of 3 mugs

This beverage is a well-crafted brew, but it is advisable to exercise caution if you are sensitive to caffeine and to wait 30 minutes before experiencing its effects.     

 

Would I recommend this at 9.0 out of 12 mugs?

I comprehend the mixed reviews that this beverage has received. It is a distinctive concoction that I found enjoyable. However, if you prefer a vanilla cream flavor, this may not be the right choice.

This beverage is not suitable for consumption with meals. Its unique nature makes it more appropriate as a social drink. In that context, I rate it highly. Consequently, it has a higher score compared to other beverages. Specifically, it ties with four other beverages that also scored 9 (out of 41 tested).

Other Reviews

The Soda Jerks – No Score

Root Beer Reviews – Rated “D”

Root Beer Respect -  7 out of 10

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

Cosmo’s Root Beer Reviews -  6 out of 10

Anthony’s Root Beer Barrel 57 out of 100

Rob’s Root Beer Review – 6 out of 10

Brad’s Brew Review – 8.5 out of 10

Saw-Whet root beers – 9 out of 10

Steve’s Root Beer Journal – 5.5 out of 10