A sip of spruce beer, and all of Quebec's past comes rushing back. This sparkling drink with a taste of the forest has been part of our heritage for generations. But where does it really come from? How is it made? And most importantly, is it alcoholic? We explain everything.
What is spruce beer?
Spruce beer is a non-alcoholic carbonated drink flavored with spruce, a conifer typical of Quebec's forests. Despite its name, it is not beer in the classic sense: it is a craft soda, sweet, sparkling, and refreshing, named after the traditional fermentation method originally used.
Its unique taste blends resinous, woody, and slightly sweet notes. It is a 100% local flavor, impossible to confuse with any other soda.
Where does spruce beer come from?
Spruce beer dates back to the time of New France. The first settlers, inspired by the knowledge of the First Nations, boiled spruce branches to create a drink rich in vitamin C, useful for enduring long winters and preventing scurvy.
Over time, the recipe softened and transformed into the delicious drink we know today. In Quebec, spruce beer has become a true symbol of nostalgia, associated with snack bars, family dinners, and childhood summers.
How is spruce beer made?
The traditional recipe relies on a few simple ingredients:
- Spruce shoots or essence, for the signature resinous flavor
- Water and sugar, the base of any sparkling drink
- A light fermentation or carbonation, which gives it that characteristic fizz
Some enthusiasts still make their own homemade spruce beer by infusing young spruce shoots. But achieving a balanced taste, not too bitter or too sweet, requires a lot of skill. It’s the art of craft brewing: dosing the spruce just enough to evoke the forest without overwhelming the palate.
What does spruce beer taste like?
Imagine a sweet and sparkling soda, with a woody freshness that recalls a walk in the forest. Spruce beer is less sweet than cola, more aromatic than root beer, and leaves a clean, refreshing finish. It’s a comforting flavor that appeals to both nostalgic drinkers and curious newcomers.
Is spruce beer alcoholic?
No. The spruce beer sold today, like Marco's, is completely non-alcoholic. It’s a soda, just like root beer or cream soda. The word "beer" is a legacy of the traditional production method, but the drink is suitable for the whole family, young and old.
Marco spruce beer, faithful since 1956
At Marco Sodas, we have been brewing spruce beer the old-fashioned way since 1956. Our recipe focuses on natural ingredients and that true taste of spruce from yesteryear, the one that takes you straight back to childhood.
No compromises on flavor, no empty promises: just the authentic pleasure of a Quebec soda made like it used to be. Each bottle is a memory shared around the table, among friends or family.
Where to buy spruce beer?
Marco spruce beer can be ordered directly online, delivered to your home anywhere in Quebec. You can also find it at several local retailers.
- Order online: our artisanal spruce beer (case of 12 x 355 ml)
- Find a retailer near you: see where to find us
Taste the authentic one, the one that tastes like back in the day.
Frequently asked questions about spruce beer
What is spruce beer?
It is a non-alcoholic carbonated drink flavored with spruce, a Quebec conifer. A craft soda with a woody and refreshing taste.
Does spruce beer contain alcohol?
No. Marco spruce beer is completely non-alcoholic. The word "beer" comes from the traditional production method.
What does spruce beer taste like?
A sweet and sparkling taste, with a resinous and woody freshness. Less sweet than cola, more aromatic than root beer.
Where to buy spruce beer in Quebec?
Online at sodasmarco.com, delivered anywhere in Quebec, or at our local retailers.