With Virgil’s, I’m reinvigorated. After the first few duds, Virgil’s really gave me the fire I needed to continue this little delve into the world of root beer. Okay, let’s give it another shot, and for today’s article I’ve chosen something that I’ve had my eye on for quite a while. Brownie Caramel Cream Root Beer. Now, to be fair, I’m not a big fan of caramel, but I’m not going into this thinking Brownie is glorified Werther’s Original candies. With something that’s been in production this long, if caramel is the way to explore root beer flavors, I’m interested to see what’s under this delightfully attractive bottle cap.
What can Brownie do for you?
Brownie Caramel Cream Root Beer, at first glance, oozes tradition. We’ve got a dark bottle with prominent orange, cream, and white packaging. Centered is an early 20th century logo and design, which definitely piques my interest. At this point, I’m expecting a solid, good, and traditional root beer. I want that flavor to take me back in time. Embedded in the label is a description about what I’m here to enjoy, a “mischievous and delicious blend of root beer & caramel.” Alright, I’m intrigued.
Background
Brownie is actually a brand from 1929, currently under ownership of the Orca Beverage Soda Works. Their motto is, “take a sip down memory lane.” While they had originally started outside of the root beer game, Orca eventually moved into re-energizing the production, of what they call, “old-time brands.” Their entire production line, according to them, consists of “over 100 retro and specialty” brands of pop. There’s not much room for disappointment here, so I’m expecting their production of Brownie to be enjoyable.
Ingredients
- Carbonated Water
- Pure Cane Sugar
- Natural and Artificial Flavors
- Caramel Color
- Phosphoric Acid
- Citric Acid
- Sodium Benzoate (a preservative)
Contains Milk
There are two things from this ingredient list that I absolutely need to touch on. First… really? Natural and artificial flavors? Ugh. I don’t even want to get into it again. Listen, food companies: just because you’re not legally obligated to tell us what’s inside your little products, doesn’t mean we don’t want to know. Second, contains milk? Well then, this should be interesting, because now I’m thinking of a root beer float.
First Taste
I’ll start off by saying that Brownie is interesting. This flavor isn’t what I expect when I think of a traditional root beer, but it’s not unpleasant. It’s dark, but definitely creamy. The flavor is subtle but cannot be missed. Sweet, not bitter. Well carbonated, and not overwhelming so. That caramel-like flavor is there, but it’s not the same as eating caramel. It’s different. Very different. The combination of this caramel and traditional root beer elements creates something new; almost like a strange, liquidated ice cream.
This is the closest I’ve come to tasting a root beer float in bottle form, and quite honestly, it’s not repulsive. It’s just different. I can definitely see how some people would find this attractive. It’s pleasant, but curiously so. I’m finding myself drinking it more, but not because I find it unendingly delicious, but because I’m intrigued by what I’m experiencing.
After Time
After forty minutes, Brownie retains most of the same characteristics of its original experience. With a slighter lower carbonation comes a more abundant flavor. Unfortunately, it becomes quite clear how unsavory the after taste is. I believe this is the first time I’ve noted my displeasure of an after taste. Despite its use of sugar, this brew sticks to everything, and that’s problematic. The longer I spend drinking Brownie, the less satisfied I become, and after time, I’m starting to regret my choice. This brew needs to be chilled, and it definitely needs its carbonation. Don’t drink it flat, or anywhere close.
Conclusion
In all, I would say Brownie isn’t terrible, but it isn’t a traditional brew. It’s strange. Interesting, but strange. If you’re a big fan of caramel, ice cream, or root beer floats, I think you might enjoy this. If you don’t like unexpected experiences, this isn’t for you. Take into consideration, however, that this is sweet. Creamy, but sweet. This is probably the sweetest brew I’ve tried. I will say that it’s much better at first, and not nearly as enjoyable over time, at least for me. Because of how unique it is, I would suggest giving it a try; but don’t get your hopes up. I’m not disappointed by this, it was certainly fun.
Rating: ♛♛♛♕♕ – 3/5
I feel pretty much the same way you do about this particular brand. It seems like somebody in 1929 was trying to come up with a new spin on root beer and decided to use some leftover caramel they had lying around. You’re right, it tastes a lot like a liquid Werther’s. The aftertaste is pure caramel.
It’s not the best root beer for floats although it’s ok. We have been making root beer for years and often buy different kinds just for a change. Ah well, c’est la vie
Hello! Thank you for the comment. There are definitely different root beers out there to try; I know, I’ve tried a lot! Definitely give some others a go. If you’re into floats, I hear 1919 and Dr. Brown’s are good!