The Top 10 Underappreciated Off-Brand Drinks You Have to Try
Without question, sodas are a mainstay of American cuisine, especially now that massive brands like Pepsi and Coca-Cola are so popular. However, if these well-known brands are the only ones you’ve tried, you’re really missing out. Discover the hidden jewels and distinctive flavors of off-brand sodas that are so underappreciated that you’ll wonder why you haven’t tried them yet. Let’s examine what these are.
Top 10 underrated sodas
1. Moxie
A New England classic, Moxie offers a fresh combo of herbal and bold tones, made with gentian root extract that gives a standout taste, although many consider it acquired. Be as polarizing as it may be, Moxie’s flavor commands a devoted following, also boasting a rich history all the way back to 1884. If you haven’t yet, give it a try and it’ll surely leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.
2. Cheerwine
You may have had a cherry soda or two, but they probably don’t taste as good as Cheerwine. This distinct cherry-flavored soda offers a sweet-yet-tart taste that’s very refreshing and satisfying, making it quite popular, especially in the South. Dating back to 1917, Cheerwine has a loyal fan base and a long history, often labeled as having a cherry pie flavor.
3. Ale-8-One
Ale-8-One is a Kentucky soda with a crisp taste, thanks to its citrus and ginger-y tones. It’s literally perfect if you’re looking for something to quench your thirst on a dry day, and given its loyal following in the South, there’s no way you could go wrong with a can of Ale-8-One.
4. Faygo
Want to try something really off-brand? Go to your nearest supermarket and get a can of Faygo — a Midwest favorite loved for its diverse range of flavors and wallet-friendly price tag. You can pick from a range of options from root beer to classic cola, pineapple watermelon, cotton candy, and more.
5. Stewart’s
There’s a high chance you either already know or somewhat remember Stewart’s, from the countless glass bottles you may have downed back in the day. This nostalgic soda brand is still standing strong, offering its beloved root beer flavor made from quality ingredients. The creamy texture is often preferred over usual root beers, and its old-fashioned charm places it amongst the top picks for many.
6. Sun Drop
If you’re in the mood for something bold, Sun Drop is an excellent try. This citrus soda comes with a caffeine kick, offering a unique flavor, and is often considered a very energizing soda. Its bright yellow packaging adds to it standing out amongst others, so you might as well pick up one and give it a try!
7. Bubble Up
A lemon-lime soda, Bubble Up offers a crisp flavor, dating all the way back to 1919. Almost a given, the soda has a loyal fan base and a refreshing taste that makes it an excellent pick for those looking to have a citrus-y soda — with a twist.
8. Ski
If you’re from the Midwest, then chances are you have heard about Ski, but otherwise, probably not. A regional favorite, Ski also comes in a bright yellow can and offers a unique taste, and an equally refreshing one. Although it’s a regional, Ski is a known brand outside of the Midwest too, and is a definite hidden gem for those looking to try something new.
9. IBC Root Beer
For all you root beer fanboys out there, IBC Root Beer is a must-try. Its creamy and rich flavor, owing to natural ingredients, gives a classic root beer taste, and although IBC remains clouded by other popular root beer brands, it has a dedicated fan base and if you see one and like root beers, pick it up!
10. Dr Brown’s
Another soda with a range of uncommon flavors, Dr. Brown’s comes in Black Cherry, Cel-Ray (celery flavor), and other unique variants. These tasty flavors, paired with the brand’s old-fashioned vibes, make it a standout soda pick for the adventurous drinkers out there.
