What Is the Difference Between Ginger Ale and Ginger Beer?

There are so many different types of mixers available today that can be used to create one-of-a-kind custom cocktails. From simple options like tonics and water to sweet and savory sodas or fresh juices, the right mixer is key to making a quality mixed drink.  At our San Diego nightclub, The Oxford Social Club, one of our favorite mixers is Ginger Beer. While some people often confuse this sweet mixer with Ginger Ale, the two beverages are actually quite different. Here’s everything you need to know about Ginger Ale, Ginger Beer and what makes these drinks different.

Ginger Ale

Most people are familiar with this ginger-flavored soft drink. This sweet, non-alcoholic soda is light, crisp and carbonated. It is made with ginger and is light and pale in color. It is a popular soda on its own and is simply carbonated water that has been flavored with real ginger. This is not only why its sweet and clear (because it’s unfiltered) but why many people use this soda when they have an upset stomach. It is most common in simple drinks like Whiskey and Ginger Ale, as the sweetness can cutter more bitter dark liquors.

Ginger Beer

While the name Ginger Beer may suggest that this beverage doesn’t necessarily have alcohol content in it, Ginger Beer is actually a non-alcoholic drink. Originally, this firey drink was actually an alcoholic beverage made by fermenting water, sugar and ginger together. Today, most commercial beers are actually non-alcoholic.

This beverage is less sweet than ginger ale, and has a little more flavor in it, which is why so many people love using it for cocktails. It is spicier and stronger-tasting and a little less sweet. It is also less carbonated, so if you prefer bubbles in your cocktail, then ginger ale is a better option. It is most common in more complicated drinks because of its stronger flavor.

Here at Oxford Social Club, we know that Ginger Beer can make all of the difference in any quality cocktail and give it that extra hint of flavor that really makes it special. This is why we use Ginger Beer in so many of our cocktails to create custom-crafted cocktails that you have to taste to believe. Whether you like a traditional Dark and Stormy, a Moscow Mule or something more inventive, let us make you a cocktail with real Ginger Beer today!