Reeds Ginger Beer: Authentic Flavor Explained

Reeds Ginger Beer is a premium, non-alcoholic beverage made with real ginger root, known for its bold, spicy flavor profile and artisanal brewing process. Unlike many commercial ginger beers, Reeds uses a traditional fermentation method with fresh ginger, resulting in a more complex taste with noticeable heat and authentic ginger character.

When exploring craft beverages, few non-alcoholic options command the respect that Reeds Ginger Beer has earned in the specialty drinks market. Created in 1985 by Brooklyn-based entrepreneur Tom Timmons, Reeds established itself as a pioneer in the premium ginger beer category, setting standards for quality that many competitors still strive to match.

The Artisanal Production Process

What truly distinguishes Reeds ginger beer ingredients from mass-market alternatives is their commitment to traditional brewing methods. While most commercial ginger beers rely on ginger flavoring or extracts, Reeds uses actual ginger root in significant quantities. The production begins with fresh ginger that's peeled, grated, and combined with water, sugar, and yeast for fermentation.

This natural fermentation process, which takes several days, creates the beverage's characteristic carbonation and complex flavor profile. Unlike ginger ales that often taste predominantly sweet with minimal ginger presence, Reeds delivers a genuine ginger bite that builds on the palate. The fermentation also produces trace amounts of alcohol (less than 0.5%), though it's classified as a non-alcoholic beverage.

Taste Profile Analysis

Understanding the Reeds ginger beer taste profile requires experiencing its multi-layered flavor journey. When poured, the beverage displays a deep amber color with vigorous carbonation. The initial aroma features prominent fresh ginger with subtle citrus undertones.

Upon tasting, Reeds presents a distinctive progression:

• Initial impression: Sweetness balanced with immediate ginger spice
• Middle palate: Intensifying ginger heat with citrus notes emerging
• Finish: Clean, spicy aftertaste that lingers without artificial aftertaste

This complexity makes Reeds particularly valuable for mixologists seeking authentic ginger flavor in cocktails, as the genuine ginger character doesn't get lost when combined with other ingredients.

Feature	Reeds Ginger Beer	Standard Ginger Ale	Other Premium Brands
Ginger Content	Real ginger root (high concentration)	Artificial flavoring	Varies (often ginger extract)
Production Method	Natural fermentation	Carbonated water + flavoring	Mostly forced carbonation
Heat Level	High (authentic ginger bite)	Low to none	Moderate
Sweetness Level	Moderate (balanced)	High	Varies
Alcohol Content	<0.5% (non-alcoholic)	0%	Typically 0%

Practical Applications and Pairings

While many consumers enjoy Reeds as a standalone beverage, its versatility makes it valuable for various applications. The best cocktails with Reeds ginger beer leverage its authentic ginger character without overwhelming other ingredients.

Mixologists particularly appreciate Reeds in classic cocktails like the Moscow Mule, Dark and Stormy, and Kentucky Mule, where its genuine ginger flavor enhances rather than masks the spirit. Unlike weaker ginger beers that require additional ginger syrup, Reeds often stands alone in recipes.

For food pairings, Reeds complements dishes with bold flavors:

• Spicy Asian cuisine (balances heat)
• Rich barbecue dishes (cuts through fat)
• Seafood with ginger-based sauces
• Sharp cheeses as a palate cleanser

Availability and Product Range

Understanding where to buy Reeds ginger beer requires knowing its distribution channels. While initially a niche product, Reeds has expanded significantly and is now available in:

• Specialty grocery stores (Whole Foods, Wegmans)
• Liquor stores with premium mixer sections
• Online retailers (Amazon, specialty beverage sites)
• Select restaurants and bars focusing on craft cocktails

The brand offers several varieties including Original, Extra Ginger, Blood Orange, and Cream Soda, though the Original remains the most popular for cocktail applications. When selecting Reeds, look for the distinctive brown glass bottle which helps protect the beverage from light degradation.

Considerations for Consumers

Those exploring Reeds ginger beer nutritional information should note that while it contains real ingredients, it does have sugar content typical of premium ginger beers. A standard 12oz bottle contains approximately 45g of sugar, though this is balanced by the significant ginger content that provides digestive benefits.

Unlike many beverages marketed as ginger beer that contain minimal actual ginger, Reeds delivers on its promise of authentic ginger flavor. This makes it particularly valuable for those seeking the potential digestive benefits associated with real ginger consumption.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Reeds Ginger Beer alcoholic?

Reeds Ginger Beer contains less than 0.5% alcohol by volume, which qualifies it as a non-alcoholic beverage. This trace alcohol results from the natural fermentation process using real ginger root, sugar, and yeast. The fermentation creates the beverage's characteristic carbonation and complex flavor profile without producing significant alcohol content.

How does Reeds Ginger Beer differ from regular ginger ale?

Reeds Ginger Beer uses real ginger root in substantial quantities and undergoes natural fermentation, resulting in a bolder, spicier flavor with authentic ginger heat. Most ginger ales use artificial ginger flavoring, contain significantly less actual ginger, and are simply carbonated water with sweeteners. Reeds has a more complex taste profile with noticeable heat that builds on the palate, while ginger ales tend to be predominantly sweet with minimal ginger character.

What makes Reeds Ginger Beer suitable for cocktails?

Reeds Ginger Beer's authentic ginger flavor and substantial heat make it ideal for cocktails because its flavor profile doesn't get lost when mixed with spirits. Unlike weaker ginger beers that require additional ginger syrup, Reeds often stands alone in recipes. Its natural fermentation process creates complex flavor notes that enhance rather than mask the primary spirit in cocktails like Moscow Mules and Dark and Stormys.

Does Reeds Ginger Beer contain artificial ingredients?

No, Reeds Ginger Beer prides itself on using only natural ingredients. The original variety contains filtered water, pure cane sugar, fresh ginger root, natural flavors, and yeast. It does not contain artificial colors, preservatives, or high fructose corn syrup. This commitment to real ingredients is what gives Reeds its distinctive, authentic ginger flavor and sets it apart from many commercial ginger beers.

How should Reeds Ginger Beer be stored for best quality?

For optimal flavor and carbonation, Reeds Ginger Beer should be stored upright in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. The brown glass bottle helps protect against light degradation, but refrigeration after opening is essential to maintain quality. Unopened bottles maintain best quality for 9-12 months, while opened bottles should be consumed within 5-7 days with the cap securely closed to preserve carbonation.