Root Beer vs. Sarsaparilla: The History of These Root Based Beverages

When it comes to a beverage that is as satisfying in flavor as it is refreshing, you can’t go wrong with a bottled root beer. Historically, root beer was created using the root of the sassafras tree while sarsaparilla used the sarsaparilla vine as it’s main ingredient. Sarsaparilla is known for having a more bitter flavor, which led to the creation of root beer for a more sweet and enhanced flavor. The traditional ingredients are no longer used but brewmakers have created similar flavors using ingredients such as sarsaparilla root, vanilla, wintergreen, liquorice root, molasses, and a variety of spices. The modern versions of root beer and sarsaparilla are nearly identical, the difference lies in the combination of ingredients and brewing technique. Each brand has a unique combination of ingredients and techniques to ensure a satisfying sip.

Stewart’s Root Beer

You can’t go wrong with a classic. A name synonymous with the title beverage, Stewart’s has perfected their root beer recipe since 1924 and hasn’t looked back! Taking a sip will bring you back to the days of sitting outside the drive-in with a burger in one hand and a draft in the other. The old-fashioned recipe uses cane sugar so every sip is sweet and satisfying.

Boylan’s Root Beer

If you’re looking for a flavor that is true to its “roots” then Boylan’s has a beverage for you. Bottling since 1891 with beverages that use real cane sugar, Boylan’s Root Beer is the choice for craft soda connoisseurs. With a rich sassafras flavor of cinnamon, sweet birch, vanilla, and wintergreen oil, you are in for the true root beer experience.

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Virgil’s Zero Root Beer

Looking for flavor that’s light on calories? Virgil’s zero sugar root beer has perfected the art to create an all-natural, full-bodied flavor root beer with zero calories. Using a proprietary blend of natural sweeteners, they have created a flavor that is satisfying without the guilt.

Saranac Root Beer

Saranac knows brewing. Using only top quality ingredients, their recipe is known for its rich creamy texture and notes of fresh vanilla and licorice. With a recipe that has been used for over one hundred years you’ll know it’s a quality beverage as soon as you taste it.