This root beer was a gift from Leslie and Taylor Guillory, who discovered it during their honeymoon in Bar Harbor. The Atlantic Brewing Company in Bar Harbor, Maine, produces Old Soaker Root Beer. Initially known as the Acadia Brewing Company in 1990, it was located within the Lompoc Cafe in downtown Bar Harbor. However, the establishment's limited capacity, which permitted only one barrel of brewing at a time, necessitated relocation. A few years later, the increased demand necessitated a move two doors down from the restaurant, expanding the capacity to seven-barrel batches. In 1998, the company outgrew its previous facility and relocated to its current location, 27 years after its inception. The new facility occupies a 19th-century Maine farmstead and utilizes native vegetation and local stonework.
The company, which asserts that its root beer is a “Bar Harbor favorite and cult classic,” uses an antiquated recipe crafted with natural quillaja extract derived from the bark of the yucca plant. While quillaja has historically been associated with foam, it also imparts an undesirable aftertaste.
The bottle emitted a subtle aroma, leaving me uncertain about the beverage’s characteristics. Upon consuming the first sip, I encountered a deviation from my expectations. Although it is a root beer, the taste resembled a combination of Cherry Dr. Pepper and root beer. This sweet and creamy beverage is distinguished by its caramel and vanilla notes. However, there was an unusual taste, which I attribute to the quillaja.
The head exhibits an average size, gradually dissipating and leaving a faint ring after several minutes.
In summary, I found the beverage enjoyable, but I would approach it differently from how others do. The quillaja aftertaste is causing the dryness in my mouth after each drink.
If you appreciate a complex flavor profile that leaves a dry mouth with a subtle bitterness, this brew may be of interest to you. However, I found the brew enjoyable and would consider drinking it again if it were the best option available.
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