Jones Soda’s Turkey and Gravy: A Thanksgiving Treat or a Thanksgiving Threat?

Jones Soda, the company known for its offbeat flavors, has brought back its infamous Turkey and Gravy soda for a limited time This controversial beverage has sparked curiosity and disgust in equal measure, leaving many wondering: is it a Thanksgiving treat or a Thanksgiving threat?

As a registered dietitian, I’m always cautious about sugary drinks, even those made with natural ingredients like Jones Soda. However, the allure of this bizarre flavor was too strong to resist. So, I embarked on a taste-testing adventure, sampling Turkey and Gravy alongside some of Jones Soda’s more conventional offerings.

The Backup Singers: A Chorus of Familiar Flavors

Before diving into the main event, I warmed up my palate with a few of Jones Soda’s other flavors.

• Strawberry Lime: This classic combination delivered a burst of sweet and tart berry flavor, reminiscent of summer days and bubblegum. While not groundbreaking, it was a refreshing and enjoyable start.

• Diet Black Cherry: As a cherry enthusiast, I was eager to try this sugar-free option. The aroma was deep and enticing, with hints of both cherry and cola. The taste, however, was a bit of a letdown. The artificial sweetener lingered unpleasantly, and the cherry flavor was fleeting.

• Root Beer: This was a standout among the “backup singers.” The natural flavors created a complex and satisfying taste, reminiscent of traditional root beer with a hint of wintergreen. It was refreshing, invigorating, and surprisingly sophisticated.

The Main Event: Turkey and Gravy – A Thanksgiving Nightmare?

With the warm-up complete, it was time to face the main event: Turkey and Gravy soda. I approached this with trepidation, unsure of what to expect. The aroma was surprisingly subtle, with a hint of savory herbs. The first sip was a shock to the system.

The initial sensation was pure carbonation, followed by an unexpected saltiness. A faint sweetness emerged, but it was quickly overshadowed by the lingering herbal flavor. It was like a bizarre culinary experiment gone wrong, a concoction of Thanksgiving broth, artificial sweeteners, and carbonated water.

The aftertaste was the most disturbing part. It was a fleeting, spectral roastedness that lingered like a phantom turkey. I couldn’t help but feel a profound respect for the audacity of creating such a beverage. It was a testament to the limits of food science, a culinary abomination that defied all expectations.

Pairing Suggestions: A Culinary Challenge

Determined to find some redeeming qualities in this bizarre beverage, I experimented with pairing it with various foods.

• Soda Water Scones: Inspired by the carbonation, I created fluffy soda water scones, aptly named Jones Scones™. They were surprisingly delicious, proving that even the most unconventional ingredients can have culinary potential.

• Dilled Glazed Carrots: The savory notes of the soda inspired me to create dilled glazed carrots. The result was surprisingly good, with the sweetness of the carrots balancing the saltiness of the soda.

The Verdict: A Thanksgiving Curiosity

Jones Soda’s Turkey and Gravy is a culinary curiosity, a Thanksgiving-themed beverage that defies expectations and pushes the boundaries of taste. While it may not be everyone’s cup of tea (or soda), it’s an experience that will stay with you long after the last drop is gone.

If you’re feeling adventurous and have a strong stomach, give it a try. But be warned: it’s not for the faint of heart.

Additional Notes:

• Jones Soda’s Turkey and Gravy is a limited-edition flavor, so it may be difficult to find.

• The soda is high in sodium, with 240 milligrams per serving.

• If you’re looking for a more traditional Thanksgiving beverage, stick with apple cider or cranberry juice.

• Jones Soda also offers a variety of other flavors, including some more conventional options like Green Apple and Orange Cream.

So, is Jones Soda’s Turkey and Gravy a Thanksgiving treat or a Thanksgiving threat? The answer, as with most things in life, is subjective. If you’re open to a culinary adventure, give it a try. But if you prefer your Thanksgiving beverages to be more traditional, stick with the classics.