Today’s post is all about a delightful, revitalizing beverages that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also nourishes your body with probiotic goodness—none other than Kombucha! As someone who enjoy sipping on this fermented tea beverage, I’m thrilled to share my exploration of the vibrant “kombucha culture” here in Vancouver. From local brewery kombucha taps to the convenience of finding it in grocery stores, the options are truly endless!
In this post, I’ll recount some of my kombucha haul experiences and review some of good tasting, locally available options that might just transform your routine grocery trip into a flavourful adventure 😊.
REMEDY KOMBUCHA—ORANGE SPLASH
Tastes: A pleasant flavor, not overly sweet or acidic, with a refreshing orange undertone. The unique “fermented tea” taste is subtle, making it a great alternative to fruity sugary sparkling water or soda. Remedy also offer other variety of fascinating flavors.
Claims: No sugar (sweet taste comes from the low-calorie sugar alcohol and stevia), ACO Certified Organic, Canada Organic Certified, Raw, Vegan and Unpasteurized, Non-GMO verified. Delicately brewed for 30 days.
Calories: 5 calories per can (330 ml); Sugar (DV%): 0% ; Cost: ~CAD 2.99
Overall Thoughts: A fun and refreshing kombucha with the added benefit of zero sugar. Ideal for those who love fruity flavors with a milder “fermented” and “sour” profile—a great alternative to sugary sodas or sparkling beverages.
CULTURE CRAFT—STRAWBERRY MOJITO
Tastes: has a distinct fermented tea taste, balanced with natural strawberry and mint. Good acidity and sweetness.
Claims: highest grade fair-trade teas, organic cane sugar, organic products, brewed in Coquitlam, BC. Using high quality local grown fruits, flowers, and herbs sourced straight from the farm.
Calories: 35 calories per can (355 ml); Sugar (DV%) = 6%; Cost: ~CAD 4.29
Overall Thoughts: A pleasant, natural-tasting kombucha with strawberry and mint notes. Smooth and enjoyable.
BUCHA BREW—RASPBERRY
Tastes: Pretty strong fermented tea taste with natural and juicy raspberry hint. Contains simple ingredients.
Claims: Organic Certified, 100% all natural ingredients, brewed in Vancouver, Female Founded Company
Calories: 50 calories per can (355 ml); Sugar (DV%) = 6%; Cost: ~CAD 3.39
Overall Thoughts: A good-tasting kombucha with a refreshing, natural raspberry juice flavor.
WILD TEA KOMBUCHA—ROOTBEER WITH GINGER
Tastes: Gingery with typical rootbeer hints. Unique and pleasant. Has a little bit sweeteners aftertaste.
Claims: Organic Certified, Contains 1 Billion CFU probiotic active cultures per serving, Brewed in Calgary, Female Owned and Operated
Calories: 5 calories per can (355 ml); Sugar: 1% ; Cost: ~CAD 2.99
Overall Thoughts: Strong on the ginger side with a unique root beer accent. A fun and healthy alternative to the traditional rootbeer sodas. One of kombucha brands with probiotic claims on the label.
BREW DR.—CLEAR MIND (ESPRIT CLAIR)
Tastes: light, crisp fermented tea taste with balance taste of aromatic herbs such as rosemary and sage, and refreshing hint of mint. Just the right amount of fizz.
Claims: Gluten Free, USDA Organic, Live and Active
Calories: 60 calories per bottle (414 ml); Sugar (DV%): 12% ; Cost: ~CAD 4.39
Overall Thoughts: A kombucha with a strong, distinct fermented tea taste, complemented by subtle hints of aromatic herbs. Taste is simple, clean, bright and easy to drinks—pairs well with savory food.
RISE KOMBUCHA—KIWI PINEAPPLE
Tastes: Nice flavor pairing! It has a refreshing tropical fruit accent, a pretty sweet kombucha with low sugar content which is a plus.
Claims: Raw and Pasteurized, Canada Organic Certified, KETO Friendly, Low Sugar (1 g sugar per serving, 207 ml), Vegan, Gluten free, made with freshly pressed fruits and vegetables in-house, Brewed in Montreal.
Calories: 4 / 207 ml (1/2 of 414 ml bottle); Sugar (DV%): 0% / 207 ml (1/2 of 414 ml bottle); Cost: ~CAD 4.99
Overall Thoughts: A unique and well-balanced kiwi-pineapple flavor. Great for those seeking a playful and exciting kombucha experience.
In conclusion, these are just a few of the myriad kombucha products available in Vancouver’s local grocery stores. The journey of exploring kombucha flavors is definitely far from over, particularly with the burgeoning presence of local kombucha brewery that present distinctive and refined brews within the city. Anticipate more exciting taste revelations in the future! 😊