Northern Neck Ginger Ale
Gingerale from the Neck
Northern Neck ginger ale, not your run of the mill gingerale, has been manufactured in Montross, Virginia since 1926. Not available in many areas, you can still get it in some stores on the Neck. And, for most people who like ginger ale, tasting Northern Neck’s ale is an experience to remember! And well worth the trouble to get it!
The ale has been produced in Montross, Virginia by the Carver family since 1926. Most locals know about Carver’s ale, and many have grown up with it. In many cases, locals remember that the ginger ale was used to calm upset stomachs during childhood illnesses. It did work, and there’s a reason for that. The Carvers used real ginger root to give their ale its "zip".
Northern Neck Ginger Ale
is still manufactured on the Northern Neck of Virginia.
In contrast, manufacturers of lower quality ales often used capsicum (or hot peppers) to give their ales a bite and to cut down on manufacturing costs. The resulting ginger ale was often of a low quality.
The Coca Cola building in Montross, VA
where the ginger ale is now made.
The Taste of Good Ginger Ale
There are two kinds of ginger ale: golden and dry. Golden ginger ale is dark colored, usually sweet and has a strong ginger taste. Golden ginger ale is the old fashioned type of ginger ale. There is no difference between this ale and non-alcoholic ginger beer. Golden ginger ale, just like ginger beer, is usually consumed just like a beer, by itself. In contrast, dry ginger ale (lighter in color and less flavor) is often used as a mixer. Golden ginger ale is no longer commonly available. And Carvers’ Northern Neck ale (acquired by the Coca Cola Company a few years ago) is one of the few that are still being manufactured. Carvers’ ginger ale is often described in these ways: - Light
- Sweet and dry…with a peppery finish
- Good enough to mix with good bourbon
- Spicy and gingery
- Clear, crisp taste with a slight bite
- Fragrant bouquet of ginger
Of course, you might want to hear someone else's opinion about the Northern Neck gingerale. The following video is a critique of the ginger ale.It's entertaining, but I must warn you...the end of the video has a surprise that sensitive individuals might consider to be offensive.
Where to Buy Northern Neck Gingerale
Today the ginger ale is still being manufactured in the Coca Cola building in Montross, VA.The ginger ale is becoming more and more difficult to find. Some gourmet food stores outside the Northern Neck do stock it, but that is unusual. Many people, especially those who have enjoyed it over the years, will actually drive from northern Virginia or Washington D.C. to get a case or two of the ale to keep on hand. If you’re in the area, there are still a couple of stores that sell it. If you’ve never had the pleasure of tasting Northern Neck ginger ale, you need to give it a try. A little on the pricey side, it’s one of those fine pleasures that may not be with us forever. Make sure you stop in at a Food Lion that carries it, and taste this wonderful, unique ginger ale while you’re here…
Northern Neck Ginger Ale to Northern Neck VA Info
Northern Neck Ginger Ale to Northern Neck Virginia
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