As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to explore and taste various brands of hard soda. This emerging category of alcoholic beverages has gained popularity in recent years, offering a unique twist on traditional soft drinks. Let's delve into some of the notable brands in the market:
1. Not Your Father's Root Beer: This brand is credited with igniting the hard soda trend. It gained a cult following with its distinct root beer flavor combined with a noticeable alcoholic kick. Not Your Father's Root Beer has since expanded its range to include other flavors like vanilla cream ale and ginger ale.
2. Henry's Hard Soda: Henry's offers a variety of hard soda flavors, including orange, ginger ale, grape, and cherry cola. These beverages are known for their smooth and refreshing taste, making them popular choices among hard soda enthusiasts.
3. Coney Island Brewing Company: This brand takes inspiration from the famous Coney Island amusement park in New York. Their hard soda lineup features flavors like root beer, orange cream, and ginger ale. Coney Island Brewing Company aims to capture the nostalgic essence of classic boardwalk treats in their beverages.
4. Best Damn Brewing Co.: The Best Damn Root Beer is a standout in this brand's lineup, providing a rich and full-bodied taste reminiscent of traditional root beer. Best Damn Brewing Co. also offers other flavors like cream soda and black cherry cola, catering to a wide range of palates.
5. Sprecher Brewing Co.: Known for their craft sodas, Sprecher Brewing Co. has ventured into the hard soda market with flavors like root beer and ginger ale. These beverages are crafted using natural ingredients, resulting in a bold and authentic taste.
6. Small Town Brewery: This brand focuses on creating unique and flavorful hard sodas. Their flagship product, Not Your Mom's Apple Pie, combines the nostalgic taste of freshly baked apple pie with a hint of cinnamon. Small Town Brewery also offers other creative flavors like strawberry rhubarb, ginger ale, and lemonade.
7. Seagram's Escapes: While primarily known for their malt beverages, Seagram's Escapes has also introduced a line of hard soda flavors. Their lineup features popular flavors like root beer, orange cream, and cherry cola, providing a familiar and enjoyable drinking experience.
These are just a few examples of the brands that have embraced the hard soda trend. It is worth noting that the market is constantly evolving, with new brands and flavors continuously emerging. Exploring the world of hard soda can be an exciting and flavorful journey, allowing you to discover unique combinations and indulge in the nostalgic taste of classic soft drinks with a grown-up twist.