In 1984, Canadian singer Kim Mitchell released the hit single “Go for a Soda,”. It quickly became a feel-good anthem synonymous with summer.
Back then, there were few if any artisanal or craft sodas. The market was dominated by the big brands. Fast forward more than three decades, and the market has opened up. Thanks to the current trend towards more natural ingredients and infusions. Going “craft” now offers some unique alternatives for old-school soda drinkers.
Scan our beverage aisle and you’ll find smaller-batch craft soda producers. You’ll find Fever Tree, Efferve, Bottle Green, and Rise, along with a few others in some of our stores.
Fever Tree
Fever Tree sources its flavours globally, from specialist suppliers. Ginger from Nigeria and the Ivory Coast, lemon extracts from Sicily, elderflowers from Gloucestershire, bitter orange from Mexico, and Quinine from the Democratic Republic of Congo are among the many. Which is why its flavoured tonic waters, ginger ales, ginger beer and sparkling lemonade are becoming popular. And not just as mixers, but to be enjoyed on their own.
Efferve
Efferve is a traditional French sparkling lemonade. It is made with locally-sourced spring water. It contains some exotic ingredients: Brazilian oranges, Italian tangerines, Normandy apples, Anjou pears, Sicilian lemons, and more.
Bottlegreen
Bottlegreen beverages were born out of a couple’s background in winemaking, creating an elderflower cordial using cold-filtration. These natural drinks include a diverse range of roots, fruits and botanicals, creating a range of options like pomegranate & elderflower, ginger & lemongrass, and mango & coconut.
Rise
Rise is slightly different than the above items. It is a kombucha – a fermented, lightly effervescent beverage made from sweetened black or green tea. Much of the sugar is metabolized by the bacteria and yeast. This results in a drink packed with probiotics, amino acids and enzymes.
Rise offers an eclectic range of flavours like lemongrass, mint & chlorophyll, hibiscus & rosehips, and more. And when served ice-cold, it’s refreshing.
So, if soft drinks are your preferred summer sipper, you now have some interesting – and healthier – options. Cheers!
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Til next time,
Neil
