Old Keg root beer

Background information: (from the website) "We’ve traced the Old Keg root beer back to 1941. The Excelsior Bottling Company in Reading, PA bottled beer, porter, brown stout, ginger ale, seltzer, and carbonated drinks. including root beers. The company was owned by T. J. Fessler and S. G. Dunkelberger. Not much is known of the distribution or other brand names and flavors. The Old Keg root beer is often praised for its classic, nostalgic taste, featuring a smooth, creamy texture with a good amount of carbonation, making it a beloved choice for those seeking a traditional root beer experience. Our Old Keg Root Beer, made with honey and brewed to have a full, smooth, rich flavor, will surely be one of your favorite root beers."

Product details: 12 fl. oz.  Old Keg is a trademark of Orca Beverage Inc., Mukilteo, WA 98275. 170 calories, 45g sugar. Glass bottle with pry-off top. https://www.orcabeverage.com

Ingredients: Carbonated Water, Cane Sugar, Caramel Colors, Brewed Natural & Artificial Flavors, Honey, Phosphoric Acid, Sodium Benzoate (A Preservative).

My thoughts: Orca beverages has been slowly acquiring various brands of soda under their manufacturing roof. It's hard to say if this is good or bad, as Orca has a pretty good distributor reach that smaller labels would struggle to achieve, making many of these available in places they otherwise wouldn't have. Bottling all at one bottler may remove some of the uniqueness, however, as processes are more corporatized. Whatever small changes may have been made, I hope these root beers are able to retain most of their core identities. Okay, enough of my corporate observations, you're here for the root beer itself.

Old Keg opens up with the smell of vanilla wafting out. It has a good rooty sassafras flavor up front with vanilla undertones. As those two basic flavors fade into the aftertaste, the honey flavor makes itself known, adding a little bit of complex sweetness that I find quite pleasant. I can't say I really detect any other spices hiding underneath the somewhat basic root beer flavor, so they're not swinging for the fences in flavor profile, but it is a solid root beer taste.

Carbonation is moderate, with bubbles that are both moderate in aggressiveness as well as quantity. This mellow level of carbonation is fine, even if I am a fan of slightly higher levels. Sweetness is excellent, combining both cane sugar and honey for an added benefit that shows up in the flavor, as mentioned above. I like what honey does in my root beers. Even though the sugar content is on the slightly high side at 45g, it never feels syrupy or like it's leaving an unpleasantly thick coating in my mouth. The moderate carbonation lends itself to a smooth drinking experience, though I do with it had a little more of a creamy froth to it.

For being such a basic root beer flavor with a simple spice profile, I think it's fairly good. The honey does a lot of the heavy lifting to add some flavor variation to this recipe and I think it pays off, even if it can't quite elevate the whole profile in a way that more spices can. That said, it's quite enjoyable a little better than a basic level, mid-tier root beer.

Rating: B-
flavor: C+
aftertaste: B+
sweetness: A
smoothness: B-

carbonation: C+

Deadworld Creeper root beer

Background information: (from the website) "Dead World Premium Zombie Soda is a premium craft soda beverage line conceived and marketed by Caliber Entertainment LLC, located in Michigan. Based on the Dead World comic book series published by Caliber Comics.

Currently, the Dead World Premium Zombie Soda beverages are available in FIVE flavors. What makes the zombie sodas unique is our partnership with various comic book artists who have provided their own creative spin to the bottle labels with depictions of various zombie images. Primarily based on the characters and events that take place in the Dead World comic book universe."

Deadworld used to be produced by Intrastate Distributors (who also made Frostie and Towne Club root beers) and came in 12 different flavors. Fast forward to today and they are now made by Orca Beverage and only come in 5 flavors. Orca is a pretty large conglomerate that houses many sub-brands under its roof.


Product details: 12 fl. oz.  Produced and bottled by Orca Beverages Inc., Mukilteo, WA 98275. 170 calories, 43g sugar.  Glass bottle with twist off top. http://www.deadworldzombiesoda.com/


Ingredients: Carbonated Water, Pure Cane Sugar, Natural & Artificial Flavors, Phosphoric Acid, Sodium Benzoate (A Preservative), Caramel Color & Blue #1.

My thoughts: This is the third Deadworld root beer I've tried, having already reviewed their Twilight Shuffler and Slow Decay vanilla root beers, both of which I liked. It appears both of those root beers have met their doom, however, and this new Creeper root beer has risen from their worm-infested corpses to live again.

This is a very strongly flavored root beer, though the actual sassafras rootiness isn't super prevalent, with a sweet vanilla and butterscotch-like flavor dominating the flavor profile. In a way, it reminds me a bit of a root beer vanilla ice cream bar. The vanilla/butterscotch taste holds over into the aftertaste, where there is little "root beer" to be be found. If you really like butterbeers, butterscotch, and vanilla profiles, then this hits all those notes.

As mentioned above, there's a sweet vanilla butterscotch flavor that gives this a kind of candied sweetness. Perhaps a touch sweeter and sugary feeling that I prefer, but it's not syrupy at all. The carbonation is good, with a fair amount of bubbling and it persists throughout the duration of drinking the whole bottle. I'm a big fan of super aggressive carbonation, which this is not aggressive, but I was still pleased with it. With the vanilla/butterscotch flavor comes the sensation of a creamy smoothness. It doesn't quite froth up as much as my very top tier rankings for smoothness do, but it offers a pleasant drinking experience.

With the old version of Deadworld root beers (produced by Intrastate Distributors) having been put in their graves, and this new one risen in their place, Creeper root beer, like its human zombie counterpart, has lost something in this death and zombification process, rising as a lesser version of its former self. While I still like it, it's a bit less of a "root beer" and more of a "sweet vanilla butterscotch treat" drink, so I have to knock the flavor score down a bit as this is a "root beer" review. But if I'm not confining it to just root beer, then it's a fine soda on it's own and one I would certainly not mind enjoying again.

edit: I went back and looked at my Slow Decay vanilla review from a decade ago and I see almost identical thoughts on the flavor, so I suspect this "Creeper" version is just a rebranding of the "Slow Decay vanilla" flavor they offered before, with very minor changes in formula (such as the 5g sugar increase). You may notice I gave Slow Decay vanilla an "A" at the time while this is getting a "B". While I'm guessing there isn't a big change in taste, I suppose the score drop reflects a change in philosophy that an "A" flavor drink doesn't necessarily make for an "A" level root beer, so consider my scores in that context.

Rating: B
flavor: B
aftertaste: B-
sweetness: B-
smoothness: B
carbonation: B

All Natural (Local 1860) root beer

Background information: This root beer is manufactured for Big Bear, CA based clothing retailer Local 1860. They have a very sparse website with no real info about their root beer on it, though their social media posts state that "Big Bears All Natural California Root Beer. Starts as a Root Beer ends as a cream soda."

Product details: 12 fl. oz.  Bottled under the authority of We Wandered West by LA Bottleworks, Montebello, CA 90640. 160 calories, 40g sugar. Glass bottle with twist off top. https://www.local1860.com/

Ingredients: Carbonated water, cane sugar, natural flavors, sodium benzoate (to preserve freshness), caramel color, phosphoric acid.

My thoughts: I didn't realize until going to review this "All Natural" branded root beer that it was one I've been intending to get from Local 1860 the next time I found myself out in Big Bear, CA (usually only once every few years). But apparently this is made specifically for this retailer and I just happened to find it at their Los Angeles based supplier/distributor.

I was surprised just upon opening up this bottle, as I was met with a thick, almost smokey-like scent that reminds me of molasses and brown sugar. My first taste reveals a strong flavor anchored by the molasses scents I first detected with some vanilla undertones. The aftertaste is a deep caramelized flavor that reveals a bit more of the vanilla and almost a butterscotch flavor.

The carbonation isn't too fizzy, relying more on a low-key effervescence that persists throughout the bottle, but doesn't necessarily tickle my tongue. It's a fairly sweet root beer and leaves a faint sugary coating, but not out of the ordinary for a soda. It does feel very smooth, though, with a very pleasant heaviness to the texture.

I'm very pleased with this and immediately after finishing the bottle, wished I had more. While it doesn't have the strongest rooty sassafras flavor, I really like what they are doing with the other flavors. It's an interesting take on root beer that may not line up exactly with what is traditionally expected, but not so far out that I would consider it to be a non-root beer. Like many others I've tried, I would have liked to see a bit more aggressiveness from the carbonation, but I do like mine with a little extra bite. This is certainly worth giving a try.

Rating: A-
flavor: A
aftertaste: A-
sweetness: B+
smoothness: A

carbonation: B-

Slice Prebiotics & Probiotics root beer

Background information: (from the website) "Since ‘84, Slice has been a household favorite. Now, we’re back with a new attitude. Real ingredients. Bold flavors. Gut-friendly benefits. We’ve kept the fizz, ditched the junk, and brought the fun. Slice is the OG soda with a modern twist."

"Prebiotics: Think of prebiotics as the snacks your gut’s good bacteria can’t get enough of. They’re like fuel for the party, keeping the probiotics energized and ready to work their magic. No prebiotics, no party—it’s that simple.

Probiotics: Probiotics are the cool crowd of good bacteria that live in your gut. They’re the ones keeping everything in check—helping with digestion, boosting your mood, and making sure your immune system stays sharp. Basically, they’re the MVPs of your microbiome.

Postbiotics: Postbiotics are the after-party vibes—what’s left after the probiotics have done their thing. These are the health-boosting byproducts that support your immunity, and keep you feeling amazing. Small but mighty, they’re the cherry on top of gut health!"

Product details: 12 fl. oz.  Manufactured for Slice, Oceanside, CA 92056. 30 calories, 3g sugar. Aluminum can. https://slicesoda.com/

Ingredients: Carbonated Water, Slice Gut Blend (Soluble Vegetable Prebiotic Fiber, Bacillus subtilis DE111, Bifidobacterium longum CECT 7347), Organic Cane Sugar, Organic Maple Syrup, Apple Juice (from Concentrate), Natural Flavors, Caramel Color, Organic Vanilla Extract, Stevia Leaf Extract, Citric Acid, Kosher Salt.

My thoughts: Yet another pre/pro/post-biotic root beer from the classic Slice brand. Slice used to be a lemon-lime soda (like 7-Up and Sprite) that closed up many years ago, but has been brought back as a "healthy soda" brand. While I'm not big on these types of root beers, I feel it necessary to test and review, so here we go.

This one has a more root beer taste than many of the similar products I've tried. While the rooty sassafras flavor is slightly weak, it isn't overwhelmed by the prebiotic flavored tinge nearly as much as others. There's a bit of vanilla in there as well, but the whole flavor profile -and especially the aftertaste- is a little overwhelmed by the Stevia, something I tend to find with most of the Stevia sweetened beverages. I really don't care for the taste of Stevia and try to avoid drinks with it.

I like that the top popped with the sound of bubbles and this doesn't disappoint in the carbonation department. The bubbles themselves are smaller and not too aggressive and, while I like super aggressive effervescence, this one is still satisfying. Unlike some other prebiotics, this one doesn't have a thick texture to it, feeling a bit more like a traditional soda. It's not particularly creamy, but smooth enough. As I mentioned earlier, it has a definite Stevia taste to it so, while appropriately sweet, I don't like the quality of that sweetness.

I'll admit, I'm a little disappointed in this. I got a few cans of other flavors of Slice a couple months ago just to try out since they were on sale for 50 cents (root beer wasn't yet available at that time), and I thought they were fairly decent. As a root beer, however, I don't think they quite deliver. If you're more Stevia tolerant than I am, then this is a root beer worth trying. For those of us on the anti-Stevia bandwagon, I'd say you should avoid this.

Rating: D+
flavor: D+
aftertaste: D+
sweetness: C-
smoothness: C+

carbonation: B+ 

Beehive root beer

Background information: (from the website) "The Beehive Pub & Grill is proud to serve Logan with crave-worthy comfort food, signature cocktails, and a place to gather. Come hungry, leave happy — Always Good Eats."

Product details: 24 fl. oz.  Made by The Beehive Pub and Grill, Logan, UT 84321. On tap. Paper fountain cup and plastic lid (as reviewed). https://thebeehivegrill.com/

Ingredients: N/A

My thoughts: This is another less traditional root beer review from me, as this is one only available at a small pub and sold as a fountain style drink, though you can buy an unsealed 64oz glass bottled "growler" and get it filled/refilled. Either way, I was excited to see a new root beer to try while out of town, so here are my thoughts.

The initial flavor is excellent, with a very strong rooty sassafras taste that is one of the boldest root beer flavors I've tried. It's not especially complex, with the usual vanilla notes and a very subtle wintergreen, but it is a really good one. The aftertaste didn't reveal any additional spices or flavors I was detecting in my initial impression, but it's such a pleasing taste that I don't mind.

Carbonation is decent, with bubbles that stick around through the whole 24 oz cup (a decent chunk of that was ice, as most fountain drinks tend to be). The bubbles aren't especially strong and I would have liked a little more aggressiveness from them, but it never felt flat. I thought the sweetness was dialed in and didn't leave me felling overly syrupy feeling. It does have a heavy creaminess to it, so felt smooth going down.

Overall, I'm pretty happy with this. The bold, up front flavor was very pleasing, even if it did lack some complexity. The carbonation was only a moderate letdown, though was never outright disappointing. It's too bad they don't offer this bottled for people to take home and enjoy at their leisure (though you can get it in that large, unsealed bottle I mentioned earlier) and they do also offer it in kegs. If you ever find yourself in Logan, UT, I think it's worth a stop to try out.

Rating: B+
flavor: A-
aftertaste: B+
sweetness: A
smoothness: A-

carbonation: C+

Rocky Mountain root beer (2026)

Background information: (from the website): "Rocky Mountain Root Beer was the idea that started it all.  We wanted to make the best flavored, all natural root beer available. We set out to create a flavor that evokes memories of the old West.  Think warm vanilla and caramel notes that glide along a creamy cloud of delicious sassafras flavor.  We also add a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg to give a grounded earthiness that ends with a spicy finish.  We hope you enjoy the end result of our quest to create the best root beer made.

Rocky Mountain Soda Company was created with one goal in mind, quality. We strive to make the most unique, best tasting, highest quality, all natural soda available. We achieve our goal by using only the finest all natural ingredients.

We custom craft each of our flavors in small batches and package every bottle by hand.  The benefit of our efforts is realized in every sip you take. We thank you for the opportunity to present our soda for your drinking pleasure. We hope you enjoy them as much as we do…Cheers!"

Product details: 12 fl. oz.  Rocky Mountain Soda Co, 4420 Glencoe Street, Denver, Colorado 80216.  140 calories, 36g sugar. Glass bottle with twist off top. http://www.rockymountainsoda.com


Ingredients: Sparkling water, organic cane sugar, natural flavor extracts, non-GMO citric acid.


My thoughts: I initially reviewed this root beer brand back in 2015, about ten and a half years ago. I recently picked up another bottle and noticed that the ingredients list has changed, so figured I should give the new formulation a try and a new rating to reflect the current offering.

Wow, this stuff is minty! There is so much wintergreen that it overwhelms the other flavors, barely tasting like a root beer at first. A little further into the bottle and the rootiness starts to surface, but the flavor is still dominated by mint. The aftertaste tastes of sassafras, vanilla, and I feel like the slightest hint of anise. Unfortunately, the mint continues to be the strongest flavor rather than just a supporting one.

My very first swig had a nice, fizzy effervescence that was delightful. My second swig, less so. By the fourth, it was basically flat, with hardly any carbonation. Very disappointing. Sweetness is great, with this being sweetened with cane sugar rather than corn syrup. Zero complaints there. It's hard to say if this drink is inherently smooth since there is no carbonation to speak of.

Overall, two things really kill the score for me: over the top wintergreen and dead carbonation. I think the flavors and spices they use are great and that this would be a far better root beer if they dialed back the mint. I shouldn't feel like I'm drinking toothpaste. The total lack of carbonation only a few swigs into the bottle is a total fail. I almost never have one go so flat that fast. This is a bummer, as Rocky Mountain was a pretty solid root beer before, but now I can't recommend it any longer.

Rating: D+
flavor: D-
aftertaste: C
sweetness: A
smoothness: C
carbonation: F+

Island root beer

Background information: (from the website) "Experience the island’s award-winning root beer, handcrafted with all-natural ingredients and plenty of aloha. Our non-alcoholic Island Root Beer is brewed with cane sugar, local honey, and rich Hawaiian vanilla, creating a smooth, authentic flavor that captures a taste of the islands. Sip it straight from the can or enjoy it over Macadamia Nut ice cream for an island-style root beer float."

• Naturally Caffeine Free

• No Artificial Colors or Flavors

• No High Fructose Corn Syrup"

Product details: 12 fl. oz.  Brewed and canned by Maui Brewing Co. Kihei, Maui Hawaii 96753. 160 calories, 39g sugar. Aluminum can. https://mauibrewingco.com/

Ingredients: Carbonated purified water, cane sugar, local honey, natural root beer flavor, Hawaiian vanilla extract, citric acid, potassium sorbate (preservative).

My thoughts: More root beer in a can, but this time it comes all the way from Hawaii, where it is sweetened (partially) with honey. I'm looking forward to this one.

This is one of the more interestingly flavored root beers I've tried. It has a good rooty flavor, but even up front there is a very interesting side flavor that I can only presume comes from the honey they use. It has a strange taste to the drink that reminds me of something...maybe malt? It's not necessarily pleasant, but nor is it bad. It reminds me of the chocolate float soda I had earlier this year (that was awful, this one is better). There's some vanilla in there as well, but it's a bit buried beneath the main flavor, and maybe a hint of wintergreen, though that's more felt from the cooling sensation than it is the flavor.

The carbonation is solid, with a decent frothiness and bite to the bubbles. It maintained that level of carbonation through the whole can. It is a fairly sweet soda, with the double hit of cane sugar and honey. It did leave me feeling a little sugared out and my tongue and mouth felt a bit coated. It does have a fairly creamy, smooth texture to it, which I like

I had a bit higher expectations from this. As I think through my score, it comes out a little above the bog-standard average canned A&W root beer you find in the store, if for no other reason than it's fairly unique flavor profile. On the other hand, it reminds me of that chocolate float soda I tried earlier this year and ended up tossing out, but fortunately this is a better version of that flavor. Who knows, maybe I'll try this on a different day and will decide I love it. I do think it's certainly worth a try.

Rating: C+
flavor: C
aftertaste: C+
sweetness: C+
smoothness: B

carbonation: A-