Rsp: £1.95 for 500ml
Competition: Crabbie’s
The consumer
When I think of ginger beer, it usually summons up mixed emotions involving summertime, limited pocket money and Enid Blyton. I came to this sample wondering why the great British beverage needed alcohol at all. What Kopparberg has produced is, however, delicious.
It is thirst-quenching, endearing and easy to drink. I was surprised at first because the usual throat-burning ginger attack wasn't there. After the second bottle I decided I preferred it that way. The ginger is not overpowering and enhances the whole experience. Four stars (out of five)
Johnny Good, labourer, London
The retailer
Frank's is light, refreshing and easy to drink. It is a little less carbonated than the leading brand and there also appears to be less ginger/spice, which makes it not too sweet. I could easily see Frank's becoming a summer drink of choice for consumers who find cider too sweet, although it could do with being more gingery to really differentiate it from the competition. Four stars
David Smith, beer buyer, Booths
The Grocer
The soft drinks market has witnessed something of a resurgence in traditional beverages such as ginger beer, so it was only a matter of time before someone created an alcoholic version. Halewood was first to market with Crabbie's, but there's plenty of room for another player. Both brands target the long drinks over ice format created by Magners. They are matched in price, but I prefer Frank's. Crabbie's is too sweet for my tastebuds. Four stars
Catherine Dawes, Focus On features editor
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