Drinkwell Softers are lacto-fermented soft drinks based on ancient beverage making techniques. As technologies advanced, many of these techniques for food preservation or drink making have nearly been lost. My first experience with lacto-fermented sodas was at a Weston A. Price conference here in San Francisco. They were delicious, refreshing and unlike any soda I had ever tried before. I knew from that first glass this was something I wanted to make at home for my family. Within 8 months, after lots of fun experimenting, loads of learning, failing and improving, and still more learning, we introduced Drinkwell Softers at the Ferry Plaza Farmer''s Market.
Relying on the alchemy of lacto-fermentation, we begin with whey from Organic St. Benoit Yogurt, filtered water, organic cane sugar, French grey sea salt. When the lacto-bacilli in the yogurt whey is fed carbohydrate, in this case organic sugar, it reproduces, resulting in more pro-biotic (friendly) bacteria, lactic acid and C02 - natural carbonation. The flavor ingredients: organic hydrosols*, fruit juices or herbal brews - are fresh, real and pure. The finished product is a soft drink that has a clean and refreshing taste, is naturally low in sugar, and loaded with pro-biotics, electrolytes and digestive enzymes. Although it is a simple combination of ingredients, it is a "living libation" that requires care and finesse. Drinkwell is a labor of love, which is why I make each batch myself.
What makes Drinkwell so different from other soft drinks, sodas or even Kombucha? It's the flavor. With a few exceptions we use flavor ingredients that come from our farm or the farms of our friends. This imparts a very different taste. Delicious straight, they are loved by children and adults. A unique, fun mixer in cocktails, and a sophisticated alternative for those looking to avoid alcohol.
Now bottling the four flavors made with Eatwell Farm Botanical Hydrosols: Lavender, Lemon Verbena, Rose Geranium and Rosemary. Please ask for them at local markets, restaurants and bars.
*Hydrosols are aqueous solutions of essential oils usally obtained by steam distillation from aromatic plants. They have uses as flavorings, medicine and in skin care. (Definition taken from Wikipedia: Herbal Distillates)
For more information please contact Lorraine Ottens:
530-554-3971
drinkwellsofters@gmail.com
Holly smokes this sound like some cool stuff, I'll have to look for some at my local store. Lemon Verbena sound like a flavor I'd like.
Posted by: Charles Samuel | 08/30/2010 at 01:48 PM
Maybe i should try it to myself the taste as well as the flavor of the eatwell soda. Maybe it will be beneficial for my health. Thanks for this.
Posted by: Mr crazy calgary | 05/31/2011 at 04:54 PM
Where can I buy this in the napa valley ? Sunshine Market in St. Helena would be a good place.
Posted by: Eve Breckenridge | 08/02/2011 at 09:44 AM
I just tried these at Sonoma Market and wow -- I'm hooked! I'll be talking with the mgmt to let them know they have at least one obsessed customer who wants to see all of your flavors in there!
Posted by: T. T. | 09/17/2011 at 08:14 PM
It is really mouth watering.
Posted by: Natural whey protein | 09/22/2011 at 03:28 AM
I find life an exciting business,The point is succinctness of expression.
Posted by: Belstaff Coat | 11/05/2011 at 06:26 AM