Ever cracked open a root beer, expecting that classic, creamy flavor, only to be met with… something else? It’s a common frustration! The world of root beer is vast, and finding your “perfect pour” among the many brands can feel like a treasure hunt without a map. You want that satisfying, nostalgic sip, but the sheer variety—from spicy sarsaparilla notes to deep vanilla undertones—can make choosing a simple refreshment surprisingly complicated.
That’s why we are diving deep into the best of the best: Rated Root Beer. We’ve tasted, compared, and ranked the top contenders so you don’t have to waste money on disappointing bottles. By the end of this post, you will know exactly which root beer deserves a permanent spot in your fridge.
Get ready to ditch the guesswork. We are breaking down the flavor profiles, ingredients, and overall experience of the top-rated root beers available today. Let’s find your new favorite!
Top Rated Root Beer Recommendations
- Includes 12 (12 fl oz) cans of Mug Root Beer
- Everything about Mug Root Beer appeals to the senses: the rich foam, the unique aroma and the feeling of ice-cold refreshment
- It's the perfect drink for the whole family.
- The taste you crave
- Caffeine-Free
- Since 1898 barq's root beer hs had a simple slogan - drink barq's it's good
- After more than a century, it's (still) good
- Makes for a sweet and creamy soft drink beverage
- Perfect size for drinking with meals, on the go, or any time
- Twelve pack of 12 fl oz cans
- REAL INGREDIENTS: Our Root Beer only uses the best ingredients. Crafted with real vanilla and sugar it is a difference you are sure to taste! Our draft root beet is full-bodied, creamy, and naturally caffeine-free.
- CELEBRATE WITH ROOT BEER: Whether it’s graduation, birthday parties, sporting events, or just a summer day, 1919 Root Beer is the perfect treat. Paired with ice cream to make a root beer float or ice cold on its own, it will not disappoint!
- A SIZE FOR EVERYONE: 1919 comes in 3 sizes: 12-Pack of 16oz cans, 10-Pack of 7.5oz cans or our 5-Liter pony keg. So whether it is for a party or just to have as a treat in your own fridge, we have the perfect size for you!
- PERFECT FOR EVERY AGE: 1919 Root Beer is versatile. Kids and adults love it alike. Looking to jazz up your root beer? 1919 pairs well with a variety of alcohol to make fun cocktails, whether you’re at a backyard BBQ or out on the boat.
- TASTE TRADITION: 1919 Root Beer started during prohibition when breweries were forced to either close or make something new. Owned and operated by a family for over 50 years, 1919 is made in the USA.
- FIRE-BREWED CRAFT ROOT BEER WITH REAL HONEY – Handcrafted in gas-fired kettles and sweetened with real Wisconsin honey for a rich, smooth flavor and creamy mouthfeel not found in mass-produced sodas.
- AUTHENTIC OLD-FASHIONED ROOT BEER TASTE – Delivers a bold, nostalgic root beer flavor with balanced sweetness and classic spice character that root beer fans love.
- MADE WITH REAL HONEY – Made with pure honey for a naturally smooth sweetness and fuller taste compared to typical root beer sodas.
- GLUTEN-FREE AND CAFFEINE-FREE SODA – Crafted without gluten or caffeine, making it a refreshing craft soda option for all ages and any time of day.
- SMOOTH, CREAMY, SODA FOUNTAIN FINISH – Fire-brewed for a creamy mouthfeel and satisfying finish that delivers a classic root beer experience in every sip.
- Perfect for baking, flavoring drinks and more
- Delivers real root beer flavor in a concentrated form
- perfect for baking or making ice cream floats
- Non-GMO, Gluten Free, Corn Syrup Free, Kosher
- Crafted in the USA
- ROOT BEER: Classic American root beer with a sweet, indulgent taste and smooth, creamy finish
- CAFFEINE FREE: Sweet treat doesn’t contain caffeine so you can enjoy it day or night
- ICE CREAM FLOATS: There’s nothing that can top a classic A&W Root Beer Float unless you prefer a Campfire, Brownie Sundae, or Salted Caramel version.
- TRUSTED SINCE 1919: A&W Root Beer has been an American classic since it was first sold at a roadside stand in California in 1919
- FAMILY FUN: Make Family Night more fun with the great taste of A&W Root Beer
- Kosher Diet Soda: This soda is made with kosher ingredients and is suitable for those following a kosher diet.
- Root Beer Flavor: The soda has a classic root beer flavor that is refreshing and delicious.
- 12 Pack: This 12 pack contains 12 bottles of soda, perfect for stocking up your fridge.
- 12 Fl Oz Bottles: Each bottle contains 12 fluid ounces of soda, providing a lot of soda for the price.
- Light Caffeine Content: The soda has a moderate amount of caffeine, making it a good choice for those who want a little energy boost without too much jitters.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Rated Root Beer
Root beer is a classic, bubbly drink. But not all root beers taste the same! “Rated Root Beer” offers a unique flavor experience. This guide helps you choose the best bottle or can for your taste buds.
Key Features to Look For
When you pick up a bottle of Rated Root Beer, check these things first. These features tell you a lot about the quality inside.
Flavor Profile
- Sassafras Level: Real root beer uses sassafras bark for its main flavor. Some brands use artificial flavors instead. Look for descriptions mentioning “real sassafras extract” if you want that authentic taste.
- Sweetness Balance: Does the label say it’s “bold” or “lightly sweetened”? Too much sugar hides the root flavor. Find a balance that suits you.
- Spice Notes: Good root beer often has hints of vanilla, wintergreen, or licorice. See if the description highlights these secondary flavors.
Carbonation Level
The fizz matters! Some people love strong, biting bubbles. Others prefer a smoother, gentler sip. Check reviews to see if Rated Root Beer is known for its aggressive carbonation or its mellow bubbles.
Important Ingredients and Materials
The ingredients list shows you what makes up your drink. High-quality ingredients usually mean better taste.
Sweeteners Used
- Cane Sugar vs. High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS): Most craft root beers use pure cane sugar. This generally creates a cleaner, richer sweetness. HFCS is cheaper but some people notice a difference in flavor.
- Natural Sweeteners: Some premium versions might use honey or maple syrup. These add complexity to the flavor.
Natural vs. Artificial Components
The best Rated Root Beer often relies on natural extracts. If you see long chemical names where simple ingredients should be, the quality might be lower. Always prioritize drinks listing recognizable spices and extracts.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one batch of Rated Root Beer better than another? It often comes down to how it is made and stored.
Brewing Method
Small-batch brewing often improves quality. This process allows brewers to carefully control the fermentation or mixing process. Mass-produced root beers sometimes rush this step, which reduces depth of flavor.
Packaging Matters
- Glass Bottles: Glass does not react with the soda, keeping the flavor pure over time.
- Cans: Cans protect the soda from light. Light can sometimes change the taste of root beer, especially if it contains natural extracts.
If a bottle has been sitting in bright sunlight on a store shelf for months, the flavor might be slightly diminished.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to drink your Rated Root Beer affects which type you should buy.
The Perfect Pairing
Consider what foods you enjoy. A very sweet root beer works well with salty snacks like pretzels. A spicy, less sweet version pairs perfectly with rich foods like barbecue or burgers.
Root Beer Floats
If you plan to make floats, you need strong carbonation. The bubbles need to hold up against melting ice cream. Choose a highly carbonated version for the best float experience.
If you plan to sip it slowly on a hot day, a smoother, more balanced flavor profile is better.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Rated Root Beer
Q: Is Rated Root Beer usually made with real sassafras?
A: Many premium versions of Rated Root Beer use real sassafras extract, but you must check the specific label. Some budget lines might use artificial flavorings.
Q: How can I tell if the root beer is too sweet?
A: If the flavor of sugar overpowers the spice and vanilla notes, it is too sweet for many root beer fans. Look for descriptions mentioning “balanced sweetness.”
Q: Does the container (can vs. glass) change the taste?
A: Yes, slightly. Glass usually keeps the flavor the most consistent. Cans protect against light, which can also degrade flavor over long storage periods.
Q: What is the best temperature to serve Rated Root Beer?
A: Most people agree that root beer tastes best when it is very cold, just above freezing (about 35-40°F). This keeps the carbonation sharp.
Q: Can I use any Rated Root Beer for a float?
A: You should use one with strong carbonation. Weak fizz will go flat quickly when ice cream is added.
Q: What does “small-batch” mean for quality?
A: Small-batch means the company makes smaller quantities at one time. This usually allows for better quality control and more time dedicated to developing the flavor.
Q: Are there caffeine-free options in the Rated Root Beer line?
A: Most traditional root beers do not contain caffeine. However, always read the nutrition label to be absolutely certain if you are avoiding caffeine.
Q: What ingredient gives root beer its unique “bite”?
A: The bite usually comes from wintergreen oil or the specific combination of spices used alongside the main sassafras flavor.
Q: How long does an unopened bottle of Rated Root Beer last?
A: If stored in a cool, dark place, an unopened bottle or can can last for many months, often past the printed “best by” date, though the carbonation might weaken slightly over time.
Q: If I prefer a creamy flavor, what should I look for?
A: Look for bottles that specifically mention high amounts of vanilla extract or cream in their description. This signals a smoother, less spicy profile.