Ginger Beer Guide — Brands, Benefits, Calories, and Where to Buy

Ginger Beer Guide — Brands, Benefits, Calories, and Where to Buy

Ginger Beer: A Quick Guide to Brands, Benefits, Calories, and Where to Buy

Ginger beer is a bold, spicy, ginger-forward soft drink (often non-alcoholic) used both on its own and as a mixer in cocktails like the classic Moscow Mule. Below you'll find clear answers to common questions people search for about ginger beer.

What are popular ginger beer brands?

There are many ginger beer brands that range from mass-market to craft-brewed. Popular options include:

  • Bundaberg — an Australian brewed ginger beer, known for its strong ginger flavor and sweet finish.
  • Fever-Tree — often used as a premium mixer, with a lighter, more balanced profile.
  • Fentimans — botanically brewed, slightly floral and complex.
  • Q Ginger Beer — crisp and less sweet, good for cocktails.
  • Gosling's — famous as the mixer for Dark 'n Stormy (rum + ginger beer).
  • Smaller craft and regional brewers — many local breweries and specialty producers make their own ginger beer with unique spice and sweetness levels.

If you want to try a distinctive craft ginger beer with a spicy, persistent finish, consider this option:

What are the benefits of ginger beer?

When people ask about the benefits of ginger beer, they often mean the benefits of ginger itself. Key points:

  • Ginger root is traditionally used to help with digestion and nausea—so some people find ginger beverages soothing after travel or during upset stomachs.
  • Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory compounds (like gingerols) that have been studied for mild health effects.
  • Non-alcoholic ginger beer can be a flavorful alternative to sodas and sugary mixers when chosen in lower-sugar varieties.

Note: Commercial ginger beers vary widely in sugar content and additives. Health benefits mainly come from ginger itself; check labels for sugar, calories, and any added alcohol before assuming a product is a healthy choice.

Can I buy ginger beer at Walmart?

Yes — many Walmart stores and Walmart.com carry several brands of ginger beer, especially popular ones like Bundaberg, Fever-Tree, and Gosling's. Availability depends on your location and whether the product is sold in the grocery or the beverage/alcohol section (where local laws apply).

If Walmart doesn’t have the specific brand you want, try these alternatives:

  • Local specialty grocery stores and international aisles (for imported brands).
  • Liquor stores that stock mixers and imported sodas.
  • Online marketplaces and the brand’s official web store for direct shipping.

How many calories are in ginger beer?

Calories vary significantly by brand and serving size because sugar content differs. Typical ranges:

  • Light or diet ginger beer: often 0–10 calories per serving (sweetened with non-caloric sweeteners).
  • Standard bottled ginger beer: roughly 90–180 calories per 12 fl oz (355 ml), depending on sugar level.
  • Smaller 330 ml bottles (common for some craft brands): usually 120–170 calories.

Always check the nutrition label on the bottle for exact calorie and sugar information.

What is Bundaberg ginger beer?

Bundaberg is an Australian-brewed ginger beer known for its strong ginger bite, rich aroma, and slightly sweet finish. It’s brewed (not simply carbonated) and typically comes in 330 ml bottles. Bundaberg is widely exported and frequently recommended for cocktails or sipping straight when you want a robust ginger flavor.

Serving tips and quick recipe ideas

Ginger beer shines in simple drinks and culinary uses:

  • Moscow Mule: vodka + ginger beer + lime over ice (serve in a copper mug if you like the tradition).
  • Dark 'n Stormy: dark rum + ginger beer + lime.
  • Non-alcoholic mocktail: ginger beer + fresh citrus + a sprig of mint.
  • Use as a marinade base or glaze for spicy-sweet sauces in cooking.

Choosing the right ginger beer

Decide based on how you’ll use it:

  • For cocktails where ginger must shine, choose a bold, spicy ginger beer.
  • For balanced mixed drinks, a mid-bodied, slightly sweet option works well.
  • For low-calorie needs, look for diet or low-sugar labeled versions.

Whether you’re exploring craft bottlings or stocking up at a big-box store, ginger beer offers a wide palette of heat, aroma, and sweetness. Try a few styles to find the one that best fits your taste and use.

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