Most mainstream ginger ale brands on the market today, including names like Canada Dry and Schweppes, have historically used very little, if any, actual ginger. Instead, they achieve their mild flavor profile and clean appearance with a combination of 'natural flavors' and extracts. A pivotal lawsuit against Canada Dry brought this deceptive practice into the public eye, revealing that its product contained an almost imperceptible amount of ginger compound, leading to a settlement and the removal of the "Made from Real Ginger" claim from its labels. However, this doesn't mean all ginger ale is a sham; several craft and premium brands pride themselves on using actual ginger root to deliver a more authentic and potent flavor experience.
The Deception of Commercial Ginger Ale
The reason for the minimal or artificial ginger content in mass-produced sodas comes down to cost and consistency. Using real, fresh ginger can be expensive and its flavor can vary, making it difficult to maintain a uniform product on a massive scale. Manufacturers instead turn to highly processed flavorings, often listed vaguely as "natural flavors". These flavorings can be derived from non-ginger sources to mimic the taste and aroma, but they lack the full-bodied, spicy bite of the real root. Furthermore, these commercial products are artificially carbonated by injecting carbon dioxide, which produces large, fast-fizzing bubbles.
How to Spot a Real Ginger Ale
Identifying a true ginger ale requires a little detective work, starting with the label. Be wary of phrases like "natural flavorings" and look for specific mentions of "ginger root" or "ginger juice" high up on the ingredient list. A naturally brewed or handcrafted ginger ale might also have a slightly cloudy appearance, as it's made with fresh, pressed ginger. Another simple trick involves pouring the soda into a clear glass. Naturally fermented beverages will often have tiny microbubbles clinging to the bottom, whereas artificially carbonated ones feature larger bubbles that quickly fizz to the surface.
Brands That Use Real Ginger
- Reed's Real Ginger Ale: A favorite among many, Reed's is known for its classic, Jamaican-style ginger ale, made with pressed organic ginger and sweetened with cane sugar. The cloudiness of the product is a visual cue of its genuine ginger content.
- Blenheim Ginger Ale: With a loyal, cult-like following, Blenheim has been making spicy ginger ale since 1903. It's available in several varieties, including an intensely spicy version known as "Hot".
- Fever-Tree Ginger Ale: A premium mixer brand, Fever-Tree sources ginger root oils from various regions to create a complex and sophisticated flavor. It's less aggressively spicy than some other craft options, offering a smoother, more refined taste.
- Q Mixers Ginger Ale: This brand focuses on creating high-quality mixers, and their ginger ale is no exception. It’s made with a blend of ginger, rose oil, and cardamom, resulting in a crisp, sharp flavor profile with a significant bite.
- Bruce Cost Ginger Ale: Known for its unfiltered nature, this ginger ale is made with fresh ginger and cane sugar, giving it a vibrant, natural flavor.
A Comparison of Ginger Ales
| Feature | Commercial Ginger Ales (e.g., Canada Dry, Schweppes) | Craft/Premium Ginger Ales (e.g., Reed's, Blenheim) |
|---|---|---|
| Ginger Content | Minimal or none; uses extracts and "natural flavors". | Substantial; uses real, fresh ginger root or cold-pressed juice. |
| Flavor Profile | Mellow, mild, and often very sweet; lacks a true ginger spice. | Robust, spicy, and complex; offers a distinct ginger bite and aroma. |
| Appearance | Clear and transparent. | Often cloudy due to real, pressed ginger. |
| Carbonation | Artificially force-carbonated; large bubbles. | Can be naturally fermented or force-carbonated; fermented versions have smaller, more persistent bubbles. |
| Sweetener | Often uses high-fructose corn syrup. | Typically uses cane sugar or honey. |
| Health Benefits | Negligible; mostly sugar and carbonated water. | Provides some mild digestive benefits from real ginger. |
Making Homemade Real Ginger Ale
For those who want complete control over their ingredients and flavor, making ginger ale at home is a simple and rewarding process. The basic recipe involves creating a simple syrup by simmering fresh ginger and sugar (or honey) in water, then straining and chilling the concentrate. This concentrate is then mixed with carbonated water or club soda to taste. This allows you to control the level of spice and sweetness, ensuring you get a truly authentic, real ginger experience. You can even experiment with other additions like lemon or lime juice to brighten the flavor.
Conclusion
It is certainly possible to find a ginger ale with real ginger in it, but a careful examination of the label is necessary. While big-name brands typically use minimal or artificial flavorings, a growing market of craft and premium sodas offers genuine, robust ginger flavor derived directly from the root. Brands like Reed's, Blenheim, and Fever-Tree are excellent choices for an authentic ginger experience. For maximum control and freshness, making your own at home from fresh ginger root is the best way to ensure your soda is the real deal. Always read the ingredient list to avoid the artificially flavored imitations and enjoy the truly spicy and complex notes of a real ginger ale. For more information on the distinctions between different soda types, see this Epicurious guide.
