When it comes to ginger beers, two popular options stand out from the rest: Bundaberg Ginger Beer and Reed's Strongest Ginger Beer. Both of these beverages have gained a loyal following among fans of spicy drinks, but they differ in several key ways.
First, let's consider the origin and history of each brand. Bundaberg is an Australian company that has been brewing ginger beer since 1960. Their recipe is based on a traditional Australian formula that uses real ginger and other natural ingredients to create a smooth, refreshing drink. Reed's, on the other hand, is a US-based company that was founded in 1989 with the goal of creating a stronger, more flavorful alternative to traditional ginger beers.
One of the most noticeable differences between these two ginger beers is their level of spiciness. As its name suggests, Reed's Strongest Ginger Beer is significantly hotter than Bundaberg, with a Scoville heat unit rating of 77,000 compared to Bundaberg's 35,000. This makes Reed's a better choice for those who enjoy extremely spicy foods and drinks, while Bundaberg may be more suitable for those who prefer a milder flavor.
Another key difference between these two ginger beers is their ingredients and brewing process. Bundaberg uses a combination of real ginger, sugar, and yeast to create its distinctive flavor, while Reed's relies on a blend of fresh ginger, pineapple juice, and other natural ingredients to give its drink a more complex taste profile. Additionally, Reed's is brewed using a longer fermentation process that allows for a more intense flavor to develop.
In terms of nutritional content, both Bundaberg and Reed's are relatively similar, with approximately 120-130 calories per serving and minimal amounts of fat and sodium. However, Reed's contains slightly more sugar than Bundaberg, which may be a concern for health-conscious consumers.
Finally, it's worth considering the price point and availability of each brand. Bundaberg is generally widely available in stores and online, with a typical price range of $3-5 per bottle. Reed's, on the other hand, can be harder to find in some areas, although it is often available at specialty food stores and online retailers. The price of Reed's tends to be slightly higher than Bundaberg, typically ranging from $4-6 per bottle.
In conclusion, while both Bundaberg Ginger Beer and Reed's Strongest Ginger Beer are high-quality options for fans of ginger beers, they cater to different tastes and preferences. If you enjoy a milder, more traditional ginger beer flavor, Bundaberg may be the better choice. However, if you're looking for an extremely spicy and flavorful drink with a unique taste profile, Reed's is definitely worth trying. Ultimately, the decision between these two ginger beers comes down to personal preference, so it's worth sampling both to see which one you enjoy more.