Root beer is one of those drinks that feels like a part of American culture—whether it’s served in a frosty mug at a diner or enjoyed in the backyard during a summer barbecue. But while many people are familiar with big-name root beer brands, Bangs Root Beer has a bit of a unique story.
With a history dating back to 1898, it’s a drink with roots (pun intended) that go way deeper than most modern sodas. Let’s take a look at Bangs Root Beer’s history and why it stands out today.
I personally drank it at the aport in Chuuk as part of the Least Visited Countries Tour.
The Origins of Bangs Root Beer
Bangs Root Beer has been around since 1898, making it one of the older root beer brands still in circulation today. The company was founded in the late 19th century by a man named George Bangs, who was determined to create a high-quality root beer that could compete with the popular beverages of the time. George’s goal was simple: craft a root beer that wasn’t just another sugary soda, but a drink that used real ingredients and tasted like it was made with care.
Back then, root beer was often brewed at home using roots, herbs, and spices, a tradition that dates back to Native American tribes who used plants like sassafras and sarsaparilla to create the drink. By the time Bangs came around, root beer had evolved into a commercial product, but George Bangs stuck to the old-school methods, making sure his root beer was made with natural ingredients like sassafras, vanilla, and a variety of other spices. This commitment to quality helped Bangs carve out a niche in a growing market of soft drinks.
The Taste: A Nod to Tradition
Bangs Root Beer’s flavor is a tribute to its origins. It’s got that smooth, sweet flavor you expect from a root beer, but with a little more depth thanks to its natural ingredients. The sassafras flavor is there, but it’s not overpowering, and the vanilla adds a nice creaminess without making it too heavy. The balance of spices gives it a refreshing taste that’s not overly sweet, making it a great option for those who want a more refined root beer experience.
What really sets Bangs apart is its commitment to using cane sugar instead of high-fructose corn syrup. This small change makes a big difference in the taste, giving the root beer a cleaner, more authentic sweetness. It’s the kind of detail that shows the brand’s dedication to quality, even as it’s evolved over the years.
Keeping It Fresh: A Modern Take on a Classic
While Bangs Root Beer has a long history, it’s not stuck in the past. Over the years, the brand has adapted to the changing tastes of consumers, embracing the craft soda movement that’s been gaining popularity. Today, Bangs continues to use the same natural ingredients and time-honored brewing techniques, but with a modern twist. The brand’s commitment to sustainability, eco-friendly packaging, and responsible ingredient sourcing also appeals to today’s more environmentally conscious consumers.
Bangs Root Beer has managed to stay relevant in an industry dominated by big names by sticking to what works: great taste and quality ingredients. It’s a brand that respects its history while keeping an eye on the future.
Where to Find Bangs Root Beer
If you’re looking to try Bangs Root Beer, you might have to hunt it down a bit. It’s available in specialty stores and online retailers, so it’s not as easy to find as some of the bigger brands. But if you’re a root beer fan and want to try something with a bit more history and flavor, it’s definitely worth seeking out.
The Bottom Line
Bangs Root Beer is a classic drink with a rich history, and it’s still going strong after more than a century. From its humble beginnings in 1898 to its modern-day commitment to quality and sustainability,
Bangs has stayed true to its roots (literally). If you’re looking for a root beer that’s a little more refined and full of history, give Bangs a try. It’s a drink that’s stood the test of time, and it’s still as refreshing as ever.