Ginger as a signature ingredient in beverages has been growing rapidly over the last several years. Google has even identified ginger as one of 2018’s top flavor trends, noting that U.S.-based searches for ginger beverages has grown around 30% year-over-year since 2017. And the majority of the searches were for either “ginger beer,” “ginger ale,” or “ginger tea.”1
Ginger Beer vs Ginger Ale
When looking at adding a little ginger zing to your beverage menu, it’s important to know the difference between ginger beer and ginger ale. First off, there’s usually no actual “beer” in ginger beer. Nearly all ginger beers today are non-alcoholic but are still the result of fermentation process; hence, the “beer.” Ginger ale, on the other hand, is a carbonated beverage made from water, ginger, and sugar. Both will have a uniquely warm lemon/citrus ginger taste, but ginger beer is going to have a more robust flavor with noticeably spicier and more enhanced ginger qualities.
Making the most of the Moscow Mules
As the rise of craft cocktails has slowly but surely taken over, one trend that’s unmistakably tied to ginger beer is the popularity of the Moscow Mule. It has grown on menus 23% year-over-year, according to Technomic’s MenuMonitor. This is evident by the ubiquitous copper mugs that can be seen across restaurant tables and bars from coast to coast. And for operators, the opportunities are abundant to create your own spin on this classic cocktail. Those looking for different takes on the traditional recipe—which includes vodka and lime juice, in addition to ginger beer—can make small changes to create a signature drink.
- Change the base of the spirit, replacing vodka with mezcal or tequila, or even a whiskey or bourbon
- Add fresh produce, such as a skewer of fresh blueberries or other fruits
- For a spicy take, add jalapenos
- Create a different edge by adding bitters, elderflower, or another unique liquor
True craft Ginger Beer
Bundaberg Brewed Drinks, distributed in the U.S. by PepsiCo Foodservice, is a family-owned brand based in Queensland, Australia. Since 1968, they’ve been crafting premium beverages, with their renowned Ginger Beer leading the charge. Made with Australian-grown ginger and sugar cane, it takes over three days to brew each batch due the demanding standards of the brewers. Available in regular or diet, as an ingredient or on its own, Bundaberg Ginger Beer is the perfect way to introduce or reinvigorate Ginger Beer on your menu. (Plus, they offer several other craft sodas, including Root Beer, Guava, Blood Orange, and Peach.)
See more Bundaberg products offered on PepsiCo Partners here.
