Ginger ale

Ginger-flavoured, sweetened and carbonated, ginger ale is the soft drink often added to spirits such as whisky or brandy before drinking. Unlike ginger beer it is rarely fermented; manufacturers carbonate a ginger-flavoured syrup base, balancing sweetness against the warming bite of ginger. Bartenders rely on it as a mixer that lifts spirits without overwhelming them. Quality versions use real ginger extract rather than flavouring alone, and the carbonation must survive the pour into a long drink. Premium brands advertise real ginger content on the label.