What is ginger ale?
Ginger ale is a ginger-based soft drink that contains carbonic acid. Although the name contains the word “ale”, ginger ale is usually non-alcoholic. The soft drink can be consumed pure or in mixed drinks.
The history of ginger ale
Thomas Cantrell, an Irish physician and pharmacist who lived in the 19th century, is said to be the inventor of the original ginger ale. This ginger ale was darker and spicier than the one we drink today and resembled in its appearance and taste the drink that we know as ginger beer today. This type of ginger ale is also known as “golden” ginger ale.
In Canada, chemist John McLaughlin later created the modern “dry” ginger ale. This variety is lighter and less intense in its taste, which is why it not only succeeded as a soft drink but also as a mixer for long drinks and cocktails of all kinds.
American Ginger Ale by Schweppes was especially successful with its version of the soft drink and managed to conquer the market quickly.
How is ginger ale produced?
Today, ginger ale is produced from a mixture of water, carbonic acid, sugar (or another sweetener) and artificial or natural ginger flavour. Additionally, ginger ale can contain different spices and other additives.
How does ginger ale differ from ginger beer?
During the production of ginger beer, a fermentation process using ginger, sugar and yeast takes place. This results in the development of carbonic acid as well as a small amount of alcohol. However, non-alcoholic ginger beer is very popular as well: This variety takes its inspiration from the taste of ginger beer, but the fermentation process is either shortened or skipped completely. Ginger beer tastes a lot spicier than ginger ale, which is why it’s not as suitable for the creation of mixed drinks.
Ginger ale in mixed drinks
Among the most popular mixed drinks that contain ginger ale are the Car Driver, Moskito, Ipanema, Moscow Mule, Orange Fresh, Horse’s Neck, Whisky Ginger Ale and Vodka Ginger Ale.
Ginger ale at Gustero
Our assortment offers a selection of various drinks, including spirits, alcoholic drinks and soft drinks. Of course, that means that we also offer a small selection of classic ginger ales. Try, for example, the aromatic Thomas Henry Ginger Ale. This company from Berlin delights with modern, high-quality soft drinks of all kinds.
