When I spotted the vintage-inspired bottles of Fentimans Curiosity Cola lined up in the cold case at my local grocery store, my curiosity was piqued. Fentimans brews their beverages naturally, according to century-old English recipes, through the process of fermentation. Ginger roots, herbs, natural extracts, sugar, brewer’s yeast, and fresh spring water are transferred to wooden vats where the liquid is left to ferment for a week to develop the signature flavor and carbonation. Yes, it also allows for trace amounts of alcohol to be formed, but after pasteurization, the booze that remains is less than 0.5%. They even leave a layer of sediment at the bottom of the bottle to ensure that the maximium flavor is delivered to each imbiber. So how’s it taste? In a word, complex. It’s definitely a powerful cola — spicy from the ginger but balanced by the earthiness of kola nut. I found it delightfully effervescent and not too sweet — it will definitely make a repeat performance in my home. I’d actually love to try some more of their inspired refreshments, such as the whimsically named “Orange Jigger” and “Shandy,” a soda made from beer! –Megan B.

More refreshment: Pepsi Natural, Dry Soda.