Goose Island

Today we try another craft brew from the Chicago brewing powerhouse of Goose Island. This root beer's reputation precedes it, and it's been sitting in the refrigerator for a long time--about 9 months.  Now is the time to find out what all the honking is about.

John:  Good right off the bat.  Crisp, cool, refreshing, sweet and strong.  Fizzes like a cold root beer float and the zesty vanilla sizzles on your tongue.  Good to sip or gulp down.  A top notch brew, worth seeking out.  ****

FRED: GOOD ROOT BEER. LITTLE DIFFERENT TASTES  REFRESHING AND SATISFYING.  ****

Tommyknocker

Tommyknockers were mean little elves who harrassed workers in the gold mines, according to Colorado superstition. In 1859 they got into the Root Beer business and this brew was born! These elves do things a little differently, brewing with such exotica as pure maple syrup and Tahitian vanilla extract. Can these little half-pints measure up?

JOHN: A strong nose of maple syrup is immediately apparent, which also lands on the tastebuds. A tangy, slightly fruity flavor mixes with the maple, which is not altogether pleasing. Only a hint of the Tahitian vanilla extract, but a mother lode of maple syrup aftertaste. It might taste better on Pancakes. **

FRED: DOES NOT TASTE LIKE A ROOT BEER. TOO MUCH VANILLA AND MAPLE SUGAR TASTE. *

Avery's

Well, well, well, a Connecticut Root-Beer has found its way into our court. Avery's seems to go for the "less-is-more" approach in their label. I like the label; will I like the root beer??

JOHN: Not unlike the label, there's a lot missing here. Quite watery, not sweet, just a hint of anise. The taste is pure, but elusive. Not much there, but what is there, is not objectionable. **

FRED: GOOD ROOT BEER. EASY TO DRINK. TOUCH OF ANISE. WEAK BUT REFRESHING. THE AFTERTASTE LINGERS THOUGH. **