Johnnie Ryan

The Pooj salutes a patriot.*

(Rocket Fizz Ventura, February 2011)

Just in time for St. Patrick’s Day, we present Johnnie Ryan Root Beer. Apparently, Johnnie Ryan Beverages was originally the Keystone Water Company at its inception 1934, and later the Extra Bottling Company in 1935, finally settling on their current name in 1942 because the owners thought that having an Irish-sounding name would attract more business. They also apparently have as many logos and slogans as they do company names: logo-wise, there’s some sort of crest/shield/crown/horses thing on the front, and a top hat and cane on the neck/cap/back; slogan-wise, they are “First for Thirst,” a “Real Refresher,” and also a “Family Favorite.” So apparently they are multi-cultural, of good pedigree, rather dapper, and somewhat schizophrenic…

However you spin it and whatever you call it, though, they certainly make a dang good root beer. All the requisite root beer flavors are there – sassafras, birch, licorice, and then some – and blend together quite well in the initial taste. It’s just sweet enough to not fight with the herbs and still keep the overall beverage from being bitter. There’s also a good root-y smell with hints of vanilla, and a slightly clove-y aftertaste that lingers for a bit longer. On top of that, the carbonation is just right to give a good fizz without masking flavor.

Good show, Johnnie Ryan – I give it a high 4.

*Johnnie Ryan = John Ryan = John Patrick Ryan = Tom Clancy’s Patriot Games = Get it? Nevermind.