In my previous post, nearly two years ago, I was prepared to commence rating. While COVID-19 did not incapacitate me, my work situation nearly did. We have experienced significant turnover, with 66% of the staff having held their positions for less than six months. For the past two years, I have had less than 30 days of paid time off (including weekends and holidays), and my average workweek has been approximately 60 hours. However, things are gradually stabilizing.
While visiting my son in Cary, North Carolina, I discovered Uncle Scott’s All Natural Root Beer. The beverage is produced nearby in Mooresville, North Carolina, just southwest of the Research Triangle and a few miles from my son’s residence.
In 2007, Scott and Suzanne Ramsey established the beverage company that produces the renowned Root Beer. Root beer is a traditional beverage made from natural ingredients, such as the roots and bark of the sassafras tree, as well as birch and cherry trees. Suzanne and Scott adapted an old-time Pennsylvania recipe to create this robust brew, crafted with cane sugar and natural flavors. The beverage is composed solely of pronounceable ingredients.
Suzanne says, “We really wanted to return to an old-fashioned flavor.” For me, it was an instant taste flashback to my grandfather’s home-brewed root beer from childhood.
The Ramsey family did not initially intend to generate a substantial income from root beer. Suzanne Scott and Jeff Fleenor established Carolina Country Provisions as a hobby to produce wine from organically cultivated grapes. They established a specialized vineyard of French and Spanish grape varieties. Root beer would serve as a secondary endeavor until the wine was ready for release. However, a freeze destroyed all 700 of their vines. Scott had a fondness for making root beer during her childhood. Consequently, they redirected their efforts to root beer production, which proved highly successful. Scott elucidates, “The process of making root beer is akin to brewing beer, and it is as intricate as the art of wine production.”
The name of the root beer was derived from the reaction of one of Suzanne’s nieces when Scott and Suzanne brought some of their root beer to her family’s residence in New Mexico. Her niece took a first sip and exclaimed, “Uncle Scott! This is the most delectable root beer I have ever tasted!” Suzanne recounts, “I responded, ‘And that is our name.’” She expresses astonishment at the prevalence of individuals with the surname “Scott.” “Occasionally, we encounter extraordinary moments.”
Ingredients:
Filtered carbonated water, pure cane sugar, vanilla, cinnamon oil, natural caramel, birch and cherry extract, licorice root oil, anise oil, and natural gum arabic. NO CORN SYRUP, ARTIFICIAL FLAVORS, OR PRESERVATIVES.
Nutrition 12 oz. serving (from the bottle)
180 Calories
15 mg Sodium.
41g - 14% of Daily Carbohydrates
0 mg Caffeine
Aroma and Flavor – 2.7 out of 3 mugs
Although the aroma was not particularly strong, it was a fundamental scent emanating from the bottle. The initial sip was exquisite, characterized by well-balanced carbonation and a smooth palate. There was no overpowering flavor, but a discernible root aftertaste was present. While some individuals may not appreciate this aspect, it was a unique and enjoyable experience.
Head – 1.8 out of 3 mugs
The head of the beverage is small, making effortless pouring possible. The use of essential natural ingredients and minimal carbonation generally reduces foam formation.
Zip – 2 out of 3 mugs
Although the blend of flavors may not be particularly distinctive, the overall experience is satisfactory. The brew lacks any overpowering elements, resulting in a smooth and enjoyable taste.
Post Consumption Impression – 2.8 out of 3 mugs
I thoroughly enjoyed the beverage, which possessed a distinctive taste and flavor that I had not encountered before. The woody aftertaste, attributed to the Birch extract, was particularly delightful.
Would I recommend this at 9.3 out of 12 mugs?
If you appreciate a fundamental flavor that imparts a smooth, woody aftertaste, consider trying this brew. As it is a local brew, obtaining it nationally may require some effort.
OTHER REVIEWS
- Anthony’s Root Beer Barrel – 81 out of 100
- Eric’s Gourmet Root Beer – 3 of 5 barrels
