Ever since the year 1700, Ginger Beer and Ginger Ale have long been popular beverages enjoyed by many. Both were first brewed during the colonial times and were named “Small Beers”. This name, small beers, came about because these drinks contained about 2 to 10% alcohol content as a result of the fermentation process. These alcohol levels were considered small as compared to the amount that most beers and other liquors contained during those times.
Fast forward to today, and this is all very different. None of the commercial brands of ginger beer or ginger ale sold in America contain alcohol anymore. Theyre sold and enjoyed as sodas now. In other countries however, Ginger Beer may still have some alcohol content to it.
Since ginger root has been considered as a medicinal herb that eases nausea and sore throats, Ginger Beer and Ginger Ale are often consumed for the purpose of giving ease to these health problems. Both beverages are also credited as great mixers for different alcoholic drinks. The very famous National Drink of Bermuda called Dark N’ Stormy is made by mixing Ginger Beer with Gosling’s Black Seal Rum, or when mixed with vodka it will result in what is called Moscow Mule.
So What is the Difference Then?
Ginger Beer and Ginger Ale do have a lot in common, but the fact still is these two beverages are quite different. The very big difference between these two falls in the content of ginger that each have. Ginger Beer has a spicier bite since it contains a higher amount of ginger compared to Ginger Ale.
When it comes to additional ingredients, the contents in Ginger Beer and Ginger Ale are also different. Ginger Ale contains more sweeteners to it and has a higher carbonation level. There is a noticeable difference in the appearance of both drinks with the liquid in Ginger Beer being cloudier when compared to Ginger Ale. And although each beverage has some fruit flavorings in it such as lime, lemon and even pineapple, both differ when it comes to the amounts of fruit juice flavorings each has.
On the production side there is not much difference when it comes to the process on how both of these beverages are made. Since everything is now more commercial and they have been branded as sodas due to use of carbonated water and syrups, Ginger Beers and Ginger Ales are now produced on a large scale to provide the demand. However, some small beverage companies have stayed true to the old fashioned Ginger Beer and Ginger Ale recipes and production processes. Some are still made in small batches without any artificial flavorings, colors or high fructose corn syrup that sodas normally have.
Ginger Beer and Ginger Ale are the kind of beverages that have numerous flavor profiles. The difference in recipes and tastes of these beverages makes it fun to sample as many as you can. Eventually you will find that one brand that suits your style best.
