Rocky Mountain (#11 - Rated 7 out of 12)

I really had a hard time finding much information about this brand.  There is no real cool history on the webpage, not the wiki page, and no historical names to search.  From the websitehttp://www.rockymountainsoda.com/rocky-mountain-root-beer/

“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.”

They also say,” 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!”

NOTE: This was not a twist-off top; even with an opener, it took work to open!

Click here for rating criteria and a summary table of all brews reviewed.

Ingredients: 

Carbonated Colorado water, Rocky Mountain beet sugar, natural flavors, and potassium sorbate as a preservative

Nutrition information from the label (Per 12 oz):  

• 135 Calories  (11.25 per oz)
• 36g sugars (12%) of Daily Carbohydrates  (3 g per oz)

Aroma and Flavor - Scored 1.5 out of 3 mugs

This beverage exudes a robust aroma, reminiscent of medicinal wintergreen and licorice. While I am not particularly fond of licorice, I was cautiously optimistic about this drink. Upon taking a sip, I detected vanilla, but the initial sensation was predominantly the tingling of wintergreen, which was slightly overpowering. The carbonation level is moderate, but the spices effectively offset it. The drink is difficult to identify and could easily be mistaken for an exceptional mouthwash.

 

Head - Scored 2 out of 3 mugs

The head is average, which is becoming commonplace for root beers I have tested. It was gone in less than a minute. It was just light foam, not bubbly like some heads.

Zip - Scored 1.7 out of 3 mugs

The taste is spicy, with a dominant licorice and wintergreen flavor, though you can also taste vanilla. The licorice and wintergreen almost overwhelm my tongue.  It is rather hearty!

 

Post Consumption Impression -  scores a 1.8 out of 3 mugs

One thing I noted is that root beer lists the distinction of being made with “Colorado Water.” Maybe I am getting some flavors from minerals in the water? I also love the claim that it’s “All Natural,” yet it lists potassium sorbate. I had no clue that neutralizing sorbic acid with potassium sorbate was natural. (Sarcasm intended!)  But then, just like most “all-natural foods,” they know most consumers won't notice the difference. 

I am uncertain about this brew. The beet sugar flavor is different yet pleasing, and I can’t compare it to any other.

Would I recommend this at 7 of 12 mugs (5 of 9 mugs without head)?

This beverage would be suitable for social occasions. However, its flavors are so strong that I would avoid eating it with a meal. The combination of ingredients may be unconventional. I would reconsider this brew in the future.

Other reviews

• Eric’s Gourmet Root Beer –  2.5 of 5 barrels
• Anthony’s Root Beer Barrel – 81 out of 100
• Root Beer Respect –  5 out of 10
• Cosmo’s Root Beer Review – 3 out of 10
• Reviews by ZP - 7 out of 10
• Steve’s Root Beer – 6 out of 10
• Kyle’s Root Beer Galacticus - B+
• Thirsty Dudes - 4 or 5 mugs