Best Expensive Root Beers to Try This Year
In this guide
If you’re seeking premium, novelty, or gift-worthy root beers, these selections stand out for quality, packaging, and unique experiences. They are best for collectors, gift-givers, and adults who enjoy a more refined or adventurous beverage experience. The list below highlights five top options that skew toward higher price points, whether due to craft methods, weekly club deliveries, or home-brewing kits. For quick comparison, see the summary table after this paragraph.
| Product | Best For | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|---|
| 1919 Classic American Root Beer (12 Pack) 16oz Cans | Home enjoyment, party planning | Authentic cane sugar, classic flavor, larger 16 oz cans |
| Root Beer of the Month Club–12 months | Soda lovers and gift givers | Year-long variety, glass bottles, curated selections |
| Maine Root Beer, 4 ct | Health-conscious or organic enthusiasts | Organically sweetened, caffeine free, USA origin |
| Mr. Root Beer Home Brewing Root Beer Kit | Home brewers and beer-curious | Makes 2 gallons, complete kit, authentic flavors |
| Frostie Root Beer Soda, 12 Ounce (24 Glass Bottles) | Classic soda lovers, bulk buyers | Time-tested root beer in large glass-bottle format |
1919 Classic American Root Beer (12 Pack)
Best for authentic root beer flavor paired with a premium can format. This 12-pack features 16 oz cans crafted with real sugar and vanilla for a rich, smooth finish. The formula emphasizes a classic, craft-brewed profile suitable for gatherings or daily indulgence. The product is caffeine-free, making it accessible for all ages during family events. A caution: larger can size means higher single-serving calories per can, so plan portions accordingly.
Who it’s best for: collectors and adults who seek a traditional root beer experience with a modern, convenient can format. Why selected: it blends an authentic taste with premium packaging, appealing to those who value heritage and clean labeling.
Root Beer of the Month Club–12 months
Best for gifts or ongoing tasting adventures. This club sends six monthly selections in glass bottles, featuring classic root beers, birch beers, and sarsaparillas. Each month is hand-picked and securely packaged to minimize breakage. It’s an ideal gift for soda enthusiasts and those who enjoy trying diverse, small-batch variants. Limitation: glass bottles require careful handling and may incur shipping impact for fragile destinations.
Who it’s best for: someone who loves variety and gifts that keep giving. Why selected: the monthly curation provides a sustained experience beyond a single purchase, with a focus on authentic packaging.
Maine Root Beer, 4 ct
Best for those who prefer organic and caffeine-free options made in the United States. Maine Root Beer uses organic sweeteners and emphasizes a natural flavor profile without caffeine. The four-pack format is convenient for tasting across days or sharing. A potential limitation: some consumers find the organic sweetness distinct from traditional cane-sugar profiles, so expect a different palate sensation.
Who it’s best for: health-conscious shoppers and fans of organic beverages. Why selected: its organic and caffeine-free approach appeals to a subset of root beer drinkers seeking cleaner ingredients.
Mr. Root Beer Home Brewing Root Beer Kit
Best for DIY enthusiasts and craft beverage fans. This kit makes 2 gallons of creamy, old-fashioned root beer at home and includes extract, flavor crystals, yeast, no-rinse cleanser, bottles, caps, labels, and a funnel. The all-in-one kit streamlines the process for a hands-on experience. Limitation: the setup requires time and space for fermentation and carbonation, which may not suit quick beverage needs.
Who it’s best for: hobbyists who want to brew their own root beer. Why selected: it provides a complete, self-contained system for creating a traditional root beer at home, with clear components.
Frostie Root Beer Soda, 12 Ounce (24 Glass Bottles)
Best for bulk households or events that want a classic, trusted root beer in traditional glass bottles. Frostie’s long-standing root beer brand is accessible and familiar, appealing to those who value nostalgia in soft drinks. A caution: glass bottles may be heavier to transport and breakable during shipping or in crowded events.
Who it’s best for: bulk buyers and lovers of classic, familiar root beer. Why selected: it delivers a traditional root beer experience in a widely recognized bottle format, suitable for gatherings.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations for Choosing Expensive Root Beers
- Flavor profile and sweetness: Do you prefer cane sugar, organic sweeteners, or a traditional root beer backbone? Cane sugar often yields a crisper finish.
- Format and packaging: Cans, glass bottles, or jars affect taste perception and transport. Glass bottles frequently convey a premium feel but are heavier and more fragile.
- Intended use: Gift, tasting club, home brewing, or bulk events will guide the best choice. Clubs offer ongoing variety, while kits enable DIY experiences.
- Origin and ingredients: Organic, caffeine-free, and US-made options appeal to health-conscious buyers and support domestic production.
- Delivery considerations: For clubs, consider shipping fragility and schedule; for home kits, be prepared for setup and fermentation time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes these root beers “expensive”? – They are premium in flavor, packaging, or delivery model (club or kit), often using higher-quality ingredients or unique formats.
- Are these suitable for kids? – Most are caffeine-free, but check each product’s ingredients for sugar content and any additives.
- Is the Root Beer of the Month Club a good gift? – Yes, it offers ongoing novelty and a curated experience for soda lovers.
- Can I brew root beer at home safely? – Yes, with a proper kit and following the included steps for fermentation and carbonation.
- Which option is best for hosting events? – Frostie glass-bottle packs or the 16 oz premium cans can serve a crowd while delivering classic taste.
- Do these products contain allergens? – Most root beers are free of common allergens, but always review the specific product labels for safety.