Did you know that there’s a national holiday that’s all about root beer? Today, we’re going to chat a bit about root beer, including what it is, its history in America, and how we can use it to make delicious root beer cocktails. We’ll also touch on hard root beer vs root beer cocktails and how you can make the best root beer drinks for National Root Beer Day. Let’s get started!

What Is Root Beer?

Root beer is a beloved and iconic American beverage known for its distinctive flavor and rich history. Originating in the United States in the mid-19th century, root beer has evolved into an extremely popular carbonated soft drink.

Interestingly, the history of root beer dates back to the colonial era when early settlers brewed their own fermented beverages using local roots and herbs. These homemade concoctions were often referred to as “small beers” and were enjoyed as a safer alternative to water, which was prone to contamination. 

Over time, recipes for these herbal brews evolved, and in the mid-1800s, the commercial production of root beer began, marking the birth of a beverage that would become an American classic.

At its core, root beer is a non-alcoholic, sweetened, and carbonated beverage that typically features a combination of herbal extracts, spices, and roots. The exact recipe for root beer varies among manufacturers, but it commonly includes ingredients such as sassafras, sarsaparilla, birch bark, vanilla, anise, and molasses. These components combine to create a complex flavor profile that can be described as sweet, creamy, and slightly spicy, with hints of vanilla and caramel.

What Is National Root Beer Day?

On National Root Beer Day, it’s the perfect opportunity to celebrate this beloved beverage and explore the creative realm of hard root beer cocktails. So, gather your favorite root beer, experiment with complimentary spirits and mixers, and raise a glass to the delightful fusion of flavors that National Root Beer Day brings!

When Is National Root Beer Day?

National Root Beer Day is celebrated annually on June 17th. It’s a day dedicated to honoring and indulging in the delightful flavors of root beer. 

How Can I Celebrate National Root Beer Day?

In our opinion, holidays like these are the perfect excuse to try some new cocktails and hard beverages! But, what else can you do to celebrate National Root Beer Day?

As we see it, you have tons of options. From hosting a root beer party to trying some local hard root beer brands, the sky’s the limit! Try creating some root beer confections like candies or cakes; you could even experiment with brand new root beer cocktails no one has ever tried before!

What Is Hard Root Beer?

Hard root beer is a modern twist on the classic non-alcoholic root beer. It is a beverage that combines the familiar flavors of root beer with the addition of alcohol, typically in the form of beer or spirits. This fusion creates a unique and refreshing drink that appeals to those looking for a more adult-oriented beverage experience.

The alcohol content in hard root beer can vary depending on the brand and the specific product. Some hard root beers have an alcohol content similar to beer, ranging from 4% to 6% ABV (alcohol by volume). Others may have a higher alcohol content, often reaching around 8% to 10% ABV. It’s important to check the label or product description to determine the alcohol content of a particular hard root beer.

How Is Hard Root Beer Made?

Hard root beer is made through a brewing process similar to that of beer, with the addition of root beer flavors and, in some cases, other ingredients. While specific recipes and methods may vary among different producers, here is a general overview of how hard root beer is typically made:

Step 1: Brewing the Base

The process begins by brewing a base beverage, which is similar to beer. Malted grains, such as barley, are combined with water and heated to activate enzymes that convert the starches in the grains into fermentable sugars. This creates a sweet liquid known as wort. Hops may also be added during the boiling process to impart bitterness and balance the sweetness.

Step 2: Fermentation

After the base is brewed, it is cooled and yeast is added to initiate fermentation. The yeast consumes the sugars in the wort and converts them into alcohol, carbon dioxide, and other byproducts. This fermentation process typically takes place in fermentation vessels, such as large tanks or barrels, and can last for several days to a couple of weeks, depending on the desired flavor and alcohol content.

Step 3: Flavoring with Root Beer Extracts

Once fermentation is complete, the brewed base is infused with root beer flavors. This is typically achieved through the addition of root beer extracts or concentrates, which contain the characteristic flavors of sassafras, sarsaparilla, and other botanicals associated with root beer. The extracts are carefully blended into the fermented base to achieve the desired taste profile.

Step 4: Carbonation

After the flavoring stage, carbonation is often added to give the hard root beer its characteristic fizziness. This can be done through either natural carbonation, where the beverage is allowed to naturally carbonate over time, or forced carbonation, where carbon dioxide is injected into the liquid under pressure.

Step 5: Packaging and Aging

Once the desired carbonation level is achieved, the hard root beer is typically filtered to remove any sediment or impurities. It is then packaged into bottles, cans, or kegs for distribution. Some producers may choose to age their hard root beer for a period of time to further enhance the flavors and allow the beverage to mellow before it reaches the market.

Hard Root Beer vs Root Beer Cocktails:

When it comes to indulging in the world of root beer, there are two ways to enjoy alcoholic root beer: hard root beer and root beer cocktails. 

Hard root beer offers a spirited twist on the classic non-alcoholic beverage, infusing it with the kick of alcohol. With its unique combination of familiar root beer flavors and a range of alcohol contents, hard root beer provides a refreshing and adult-oriented experience. 

On the other hand, root beer cocktails open up a realm of creativity, allowing mixologists and enthusiasts to craft tantalizing concoctions by combining root beer with complementary spirits, mixers, and ingredients. 

Whether you prefer the straightforward allure of hard root beer or the versatility of root beer cocktails, both options offer delightful ways to savor the beloved flavors of root beer with an alcoholic twist.

Root Beer Cocktails to Try for National Root Beer Day:

Speaking of root beer cocktails, what better time to dive in and chat about some that you can mix up at home? We’ve included five popular root beer cocktails here for you to enjoy, but you could certainly experiment with combinations and new flavor profiles you don’t see here. So, let’s take a look at a few cocktails you could try:

Mulled spice Cherry Punch

For a warmed, festive root beer cocktail, this punch is perfect. Plus, the recipe will make enough for 4-6 servings! To make this, grab a big saucepan and combine 32 oz cherry juice, 8 oz bourbon, ¼ tsp cinnamon, ⅛ tsp nutmeg, a pinch of allspice, and ½ cup root beer. 

Heat everything until the mixture starts to simmer, then give each person a ladle or two into a warmed mug. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and an orange slice. Enjoy!

21+ Root Beer Float

For this drink, the classic root beer float gets an adult makeover. You’ll find vanilla vodka in this recipe, which gives the whole drink that “lift” that it needs. To make this “cocktail,” first put 2-3 scoops of your favorite vanilla ice cream into a tall glass, like those diner milkshake glasses! Next, fill your glass halfway with your favorite root beer. Add 1.5-2 oz vanilla vodka to the glass, and top with more root beer, if you like. 

Make sure you toss a straw and spoon in there so that you can enjoy all the boozy goodness – properly!

The Lynchburg Beer

While this root beer cocktail might sound super obscure, it’s actually quite similar to a Jack and Coke. In fact, it tastes almost like a J&C, but with a spicy undertone. To make this cocktail, grab a root beer mug or a beer glass and add ice. Pour 2 oz Jack Daniels over your ice, then top with your favorite root beer!

Root Beer Rum Cream

This is a spicy, creamy, boozy root beer cocktail with an incredible richness that will certainly satiate those sweet taste buds. To make this cocktail, fill a glass with ice (preferably crushed), then add 2 oz dark spiced rum (this is very important). Next, add 6 oz of your favorite root beer, then top off with 1-2 oz Bailey’s Irish Cream liqueur. Stir gently until mostly combined, then enjoy!

Señor Root Beer

At first, you might think that this is an odd combination, but once you try it, it’ll all make sense. To make this root beer cocktail, take a chilled pint glass and add 2 oz gold or silver tequila and 1 oz lime juice. Pour your favorite root beer over top, stir, and garnish with a lime wedge. Enjoy!

How to Make the Best Root Beer Cocktails for National Root Beer Day

With the unique flavors of root beer as your base, combined with complimentary spirits, mixers, and garnishes, you can elevate your cocktail game and celebrate this special day in style. Here’s a guide to help you craft the best root beer cocktails that will impress your friends and make National Root Beer Day unforgettable:

1. Use fresh ingredients.
2. Use the right glassware.
3. Don’t forget about garnishes.
4. Incorporate texture with ice.
5. Use high-quality, local spirits, if you can.

Distillery Nearby: Your Source for Local Spirits for Your Root Beer Cocktails

Here at Distillery Nearby, we know that finding local, craft spirits, can be a pain. Searching for specific spirits, especially, can be tough. That’s why we created our distillery directory and filtered it by state for you to easily browse through. 

So, if you’re looking for a local, craft distillery near you to add to your root beer cocktails, look no further than our distillery directory. Simply click on your state and browse what’s available to you!

From all of us here at Distillery Nearby,

Happy National Root Beer Day!