Ingredients
- 1 Glass(s) Root Beer
- 1 oz Blackberry Brandy
Instructions
Pour Root Beer:
- Fill a mug with your favorite root beer.
Add Brandy:
- Add a shot (1 oz) of blackberry brandy to the mug.
Serve:
- Stir gently if desired, and enjoy the bold, refreshing flavors.
Notes
Estimated Nutrition:
Where it came from
History's hazy on who first poured brandy into root beer. This isn't some old-world classic with a storied past. More likely, it's the kind of spontaneous creation that happens when a bartender, or a thirsty individual at home, looks at what's available and makes it work.
Think of it as a fruit-forward, low-octane highball. It's in the same casual family as a Rum and Coke or a Gin and Tonic, but with a distinctly American, almost nostalgic flavor profile. The brandy gives it a bit more character than just a plain soda mixer.
You're not ordering this at a fancy cocktail lounge, and that's the point. This is a backyard barbecue drink, a late-night diner concoction, or something you whip up when you're done with fussy recipes and just want something cold and easy.
What it tastes like
That familiar, sweet, sarsaparilla bite of root beer forms the backbone here. The blackberry brandy layers in a deep, dark fruit sweetness, a little jammy, and just enough boozy warmth to remind you this isn't just soda pop. It's a straightforward, satisfying combination.
With one ounce of 40% ABV brandy in a typical 12-ounce mug of root beer, you're looking at a drink that clocks in around 3% alcohol by volume. That puts it squarely in the territory of a light beer, making it a good choice for when you want a little something extra without getting completely wrecked.
The technique
Building a Barbarian is about as complex as tying your shoes. Grab a mug, fill it with your chosen root beer, then pour in a shot of blackberry brandy. That's it. It's a build-in-glass situation, no shakers or strainers needed.
The only real 'technique' here is to stir it gently. You want to combine the flavors without de-carbonating your root beer into a flat, sad mess. Keep those bubbles alive.
Ingredient Spotlight
The bottles that make or break this drink.
Blackberry Brandy
- Use
- A decent quality blackberry brandy, nothing too cheap or syrupy. Brands like Jacquin's or Paul Masson work fine, or a craft option if you can find it.
- Skip
- Avoid overly sweet liqueurs that just taste like sugar and artificial fruit. Also, skip plain brandy or cognac, as you'll lose the crucial blackberry flavor.
- Why
- This is where the 'Barbarian' gets its kick and its fruit. It's the only spirit, so its quality dictates the drink's character.
Root Beer
- Use
- Don't skimp on the root beer. A good craft root beer makes a difference. Think brands like A&W, Dad's, or even fancier small-batch options.
- Skip
- Flat, generic soda fountain root beer won't do this drink any favors. Also, avoid diet versions, as they often have an artificial aftertaste that clashes.
- Why
- It's the main volume and flavor driver. A weak root beer makes a weak drink, no matter how good your brandy is.
Three Variations
Three real ways bartenders riff on this drink.
Root Beer Float Barbarian
- Dessert in a mug
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream to your finished Barbarian. The melting ice cream adds a creamy texture and extra sweetness.
Spiced Barbarian
- A hint of warmth
- For a little extra depth, add a dash of Angostura bitters or a small splash of spiced rum along with the blackberry brandy.
Raspberry Barbarian
- Different berry, same vibe
- Swap out the blackberry brandy for a good quality raspberry brandy or raspberry liqueur. It keeps the fruit profile but changes the nuance.
What if I don't have…
Quick substitutions for when the bottle shop is closed.
Try a cherry brandy, a dark rum, or even a shot of vodka with a splash of blackberry syrup.
Sarsaparilla soda works perfectly. Dr. Pepper or a regular cola can also pinch hit, though the flavor profile will shift.
Any tall glass will do the job. A pint glass or a highball glass works just fine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Direct answers to what people search for after Googling this drink.
What is in a Barbarian?
A Barbarian cocktail is made with root beer and blackberry brandy.
Is the Barbarian a sweet drink?
Yes, it's definitely on the sweeter side. Both root beer and blackberry brandy bring a lot of sugar to the party, but the brandy adds a bit of boozy edge to balance it.
What kind of brandy should I use?
A decent quality blackberry brandy is key. You don't need top-shelf, but avoid anything that tastes overly artificial or syrupy. If you can't find blackberry, other fruit brandies can work, but it won't be a true Barbarian.
Can I make a stronger Barbarian?
Absolutely. Just add more blackberry brandy. Start with an extra half ounce and adjust to your taste. Keep in mind it will make the drink sweeter as well.
Should I serve it hot or cold?
This drink is built for cold. Always serve it over ice, and make sure your root beer is well chilled before you start. Warm root beer is a crime.
What food pairs well with a Barbarian?
Think casual comfort food. Burgers, barbecue, pizza, or even a good old-fashioned hot dog. It's also pretty good with a slice of apple pie or chocolate cake.
Is it a popular drink?
It's not a mainstream classic you'll find on every menu, but it's a known quantity among those who appreciate simple, no-fuss drinks with a distinctive flavor. It's a bit of an underground hit.
Can I make a non-alcoholic version?
You can enjoy root beer on its own, of course. For a similar flavor profile without the booze, try adding a splash of blackberry syrup or non-alcoholic blackberry cordial to your root beer.
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