Tree Fort Soda is a local beverage, originating from the metropolitan area where I reside. Eva and Sam Ducker expressed their desire to create a superior soda, contrasting it with the wine preferred by their adult family members. Currently, they offer four distinct flavors: Root Beer, Juicy Orange, Ginger Ale, and Classic Cola. The Root Beer is crafted with a blend of wintergreen, anise, cinnamon, sarsaparilla, marigold, peppercorn, and genuine honey, resulting in a subtle, rich brew that is particularly enjoyable when served from the bottle.
Eva Ducker, a 17-year-old student at Blake, a private school in Minneapolis, Minnesota, launched Tree Fort Root Beer in 2015 as part of her senior project. Her brother, David Duckler, and sister-in-law, Lily Duckler, who own a tea house and café in the Seward neighborhood, provided invaluable assistance in developing the brand. They offered their expertise, ingredients, and facilities to support Eva’s entrepreneurial aspirations.
Duckler aspired to develop a creamy, sweet, all-natural beverage distinct from conventional sodas such as Coke and Pepsi, which she perceived as “somewhat harsh.” According to Duckler, root beer is meticulously hand-brewed using herbs and flowers, including marigold and chicory, and vanilla and honey are incorporated into the concoction. She primarily creates flavors by “steeping a multitude of herbs using water extraction.” Notably, the soda deviates from the traditional root beer flavor profile, but Duckler acknowledges this distinction, asserting that it has a more “layered and balanced” taste. She remarks, “It is what I would like to believe root beer tasted like during its origins in the 1800s, when it was exclusively consumed made from roots!”
The aroma is distinctly medicinal, contrasting with my preference for the deep, dark root beer. The color is reminiscent of Crème Soda or Ginger Ale.
Initially, it may seem unconventional, but this beverage is not a traditional root beer. Instead, it is a blend of root beer and ginger ale. The honey is prominently featured, accompanied by a subtle wintergreen or cinnamon flavor. It evokes a sense of dandelion.
I am at a loss for words. While it is a decent soda, it does not truly resemble root beer. It has a unique, exceptionally dry flavor profile. After drinking the beverage, I experienced a dry mouth. Interestingly, I have the distinct impression of drinking carbonated tea infused with honey, akin to a soft drink.
While I appreciate the narrative of the young entrepreneur’s innovative breakthrough, as a root beer enthusiast, I would exercise caution before making a purchase. Nevertheless, if you are seeking a dry beverage that evokes the sensation of consuming a solid tea infused with honey, I recommend giving it a try.
