Tag: Hard root beer

While many assume root beer is completely alcohol-free, historically, some early recipes could produce up to 2% alcohol content through natural fermentation. This lingering association with alcohol, combined with the name, has led to a common misunderstanding about whether or not root beer counts as alcohol today.

The biggest surprise for many drinkers is that Not Your Father's Root Beer, despite its sweet and nostalgic taste, is officially classified as a flavored malt beverage (FMB), not a liquor-based cocktail. This distinction explains why it's sold alongside beer and not in the spirits aisle, a key element of its identity that shaped the entire hard soda category.

Historically, early root beer recipes were mildly alcoholic due to a natural fermentation process. However, the vast majority of commercial root beers available today are non-alcoholic, qualifying as soft drinks. This definitive guide will help you navigate the nuanced history and modern-day variations to answer the question: Is root beer alcoholic or non-alcoholic?