For the best craft sodas, I would start with Jones Soda Co. Root Beer Soda Flavor as the best overall pick because it gives the category its clearest balance: cane sugar, glass-bottle appeal, a familiar flavor, and enough character to feel special without leaning on novelty alone. Izze Sparkling Juice Variety Pack is the standout for lighter, fruit-forward drinkers, while Jones Soda Co. Sunset Sarsaparilla makes the most sense for collectors and old-school soda fans. The main tradeoffs are sweetness versus drinkability, classic soda character versus functional prebiotic formulas, and everyday value versus giftable packaging. Some picks are better for sipping straight, while others work best as party bottles, mixers, or lower-sugar alternatives. Continue reading for the full breakdown of how I would match each soda to the right buyer.
Key Takeaways
- Jones Soda Co. Root Beer Soda Flavor is the strongest overall choice because it feels craft without becoming too niche or too tied to collector packaging.
- Izze Sparkling Juice Variety Pack offers the best everyday variety, but it tastes more like sparkling juice than a full dessert-style craft soda.
- Poppi is the better path for lower-sugar and prebiotic shoppers, though the flavors vary more by mood than classic cane-sugar sodas do.
- Fallout-themed Jones bottles are best for gifting and fandom appeal; they are less convincing as daily buys if price per bottle matters.
- Fever-Tree Club Soda earns its place as a premium mixer, but buyers wanting bold standalone flavor should choose Jones, Izze, or Poppi instead.
| Jones Soda Co. Nuka Cola Grape |  | Best Nostalgic Grape Pick | Brand: Jones Soda Co. | Product Line: Nuka Cola | Flavor: Grape | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Jones Soda Co. Sunset Sarsaparilla |  | Best Collector Gift Set | Brand: Jones Soda Co. | Flavor: Sunset Sarsaparilla | Quantity: 12 bottles | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Jones Soda Co. Nuka Victory Cola |  | Best Tropical Craft Soda | Brand: Jones Soda Co. | Product Line: Nuka Victory Cola | Flavor: Peach and mango | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Izze Sparkling Juice Variety Pack |  | Best Overall Variety Pack | Brand: Izze | Pack Size: 24 cans | Volume per Can: 8.4 fl oz | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Poppi Prebiotic Soda Shirley Temple |  | Best Low-Sugar Functional Pick | Brand: Poppi | Flavor: Shirley Temple | Pack Count: 12 cans | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Poppi Strawberry Lemon Prebiotic Soda 4 Pack |  | Best Low-Sugar Fruit Soda | Flavor: Strawberry Lemon | Pack Size: 4 cans | Calories: 25 or less per can | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Poppi Prebiotic Soda, Classic Cola, 12 Fl Oz |  | Best Caffeinated Cola Alternative | Flavor: Classic Cola | Volume: 12 fl oz | Pack Size: 1 can | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Fever-Tree Club Soda – Premium Zero Calorie Mixer, 24 cans of 5.1 fl oz |  | Best Craft Mixer | Drink Type: Club soda | Can Size: 5.1 fl oz | Quantity: 24 cans | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Jones Soda Co. Root Beer Soda Flavor – 100% Cane Sugar, Glass Bottle |  | Best Classic Craft Soda | Brand: Jones Soda Co. | Flavor: Root Beer | Sweetener: 100% cane sugar | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Fallout Sunset Sarsaparilla 12oz Jones Soda 4 Pack |  | Best Collectible Craft Soda | Brand: Jones Soda | Flavor: Sunset Sarsaparilla | Theme: Fallout-inspired | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Poppi Prebiotic Soda, Sparkling Water & Fruit Juice, Major Mix, 12 Oz, 12 Pack |  | Best Low-Sugar Variety Pack | Flavor Variety: Shirley Temple, Root Beer, Orange Cream, Lemon Lime, Cream Soda, Cherry Cola | Can Size: 12 oz | Pack Size: 12 cans | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Jones Soda Co. Orange Cream Soda – 4 Glass Bottles |  | Best Nostalgic Cream Soda | Flavor: Orange Cream | Sweetener: 100% cane sugar | Packaging: Glass bottles | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Jones Soda Co. Fallout Vault-Tec Supply Pack, 12 fl oz, 12-count |  | Best Collector Gift Pack | Bottle Size: 12 fl oz | Quantity: 12 bottles | Flavors: Sarsaparilla Root Beer, Citrus Berry Lemonade, Dark Grape | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Jones Soda Co. Green Apple Soda – 4 Glass Bottles |  | Best Tart Fruit Soda | Flavor: Green Apple | Quantity: 4 bottles | Sweetener: 100% cane sugar | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Jones Soda Co. Nuka Cola Grape
Jones Soda Co. Nuka Cola Grape earns its place for buyers who want a bold, old-school soda rather than a lighter sparkling juice. Compared with Izze Sparkling Juice Variety Pack, this is less about fruit-forward balance and more about cane-sugar grape sweetness in a glass bottle. That makes it a stronger fit for collectors, themed parties, or anyone who wants a treat that feels more like a soda-shop find. The tradeoff is narrow appeal: grape can taste intense, and this single-flavor format gives less flexibility than Izze or the 12-bottle Sunset Sarsaparilla set. I would place it below the broader variety picks, but higher for buyers chasing character and nostalgia.
Pros:- Distinct grape flavor gives it more personality than standard cola-style sodas
- Cane sugar supports a classic soda-shop sweetness
- Glass bottle adds giftable and collectible appeal
Cons:- Single-flavor format is less flexible than variety packs
- Glass packaging can raise cost and is less convenient for travel
- Bold grape flavor may be too sweet for buyers who prefer dry or tart sodas
Best for: Collectors and grape-soda fans who want a cane-sugar craft soda with a nostalgic glass-bottle feel.
Not ideal for: Households that want multiple flavors in one purchase, since this is centered on one strong grape profile.
- Brand:Jones Soda Co.
- Product Line:Nuka Cola
- Flavor:Grape
- Sweetener:Cane sugar
- Packaging:Glass bottle
- Beverage Type:Craft soda
Bottom line: This is the right pick when nostalgia and grape flavor matter more than variety or everyday value.
Jones Soda Co. Sunset Sarsaparilla
Jones Soda Co. Sunset Sarsaparilla is the most gift-ready option in this batch because the soda is only part of the appeal. The 12-bottle format, collectible caps, and included opener make it feel more complete than the single-bottle Nuka Cola Grape or Nuka Victory Cola. Sarsaparilla also offers a deeper, root-style profile, which gives it a more grown-up feel than Poppi Shirley Temple. Still, it asks for a specific buyer: anyone who dislikes sarsaparilla or themed packaging may get less value from the extras. I would rank it high for collectors and party hosts, but not as an everyday fridge stocker because it lacks flavor variety and comes only as a set.
Pros:- Collectible caps and opener make the set feel gift-ready
- Twelve 12 oz bottles work well for sharing or events
- Natural flavors support a more classic specialty-soda profile
- Glass-bottle presentation has stronger collector appeal than cans
Cons:- No flavor variety within the pack
- Sarsaparilla is more polarizing than fruit flavors like peach mango or blackberry
- The collector extras may add cost for buyers who only care about the soda
Best for: Fallout collectors, themed-party hosts, and craft soda fans who want a full bottle set with display appeal.
Not ideal for: Casual soda buyers who only want a few bottles or who do not enjoy sarsaparilla’s herbal, root-style flavor.
- Brand:Jones Soda Co.
- Flavor:Sunset Sarsaparilla
- Quantity:12 bottles
- Bottle Size:12 oz each
- Total Volume:144 fl oz
- Included Accessory:Twist-off bottle opener
- Collectible Feature:Fallout bottle caps
- Flavoring:Natural flavors
Bottom line: Choose this set for a themed gift or gathering, not as the most versatile everyday craft soda pack.
Jones Soda Co. Nuka Victory Cola
Jones Soda Co. Nuka Victory Cola is the most playful flavor choice here, pairing peach and mango with 100% cane sugar in a 12 oz glass bottle. Compared with Nuka Cola Grape, it reads brighter and less familiar, so it suits buyers who want craft soda to feel different from supermarket staples. It also has more novelty than Poppi Shirley Temple thanks to the glass bottle and augmented-reality label features. The drawback is practicality: a single glass bottle is fragile, and availability may be less steady than canned options like Izze Sparkling Juice Variety Pack. I would pick this for flavor curiosity, while Izze is better for stocking a fridge.
Pros:- Peach and mango blend feels more distinctive than standard cola or grape
- 100% cane sugar gives it a fuller traditional soda sweetness
- Glass bottle adds nostalgic presentation
- Augmented-reality label features increase novelty value
Cons:- Single-flavor bottle offers less range than a variety pack
- Glass bottle is less practical for bags, picnics, or shipping-heavy orders
- Limited availability can make repeat buying harder
Best for: Buyers who want a fruity, collectible craft soda with a tropical flavor twist and cane-sugar sweetness.
Not ideal for: Travelers or bulk buyers who need durable packaging and easy replenishment.
- Brand:Jones Soda Co.
- Product Line:Nuka Victory Cola
- Flavor:Peach and mango
- Sweetener:100% cane sugar
- Size:12 oz
- Packaging:Glass bottle
- Label Feature:Augmented reality features
- Beverage Type:Craft soda
Bottom line: This is the craft soda to choose when a bright tropical flavor matters more than pack size or convenience.
Izze Sparkling Juice Variety Pack
Izze Sparkling Juice Variety Pack ranks as my most versatile pick because it gives buyers four flavors, 24 cans, and a lighter build based on 60% real fruit juice plus sparkling water. Compared with the Jones glass-bottle picks, Izze is easier to serve at lunches, parties, and family gatherings because no single flavor dominates the whole pack. It is also less sugary in feel than cane-sugar sodas, though it still contains natural fruit sugars and may taste acidic to sensitive drinkers. Against Poppi Shirley Temple, Izze offers more flavor range but skips prebiotic fiber. I would choose this first for broad appeal, while Poppi is better for low-sugar buyers.
Pros:- Four-flavor variety makes it easier to satisfy different tastes
- Made with 60% real fruit juice and sparkling water
- No added sugar or artificial sweeteners
- 24-count pack is practical for groups and repeat serving
Cons:- Natural fruit sugars make it less suitable for very low-sugar diets
- Fruit acidity may bother some drinkers
- Can format lacks the nostalgic presentation of glass-bottle craft sodas
Best for: Families, office fridges, and party hosts who want several fruit-forward craft soda alternatives in one pack.
Not ideal for: Strict low-sugar buyers or people sensitive to acidic sparkling fruit drinks.
- Brand:Izze
- Pack Size:24 cans
- Volume per Can:8.4 fl oz
- Flavor Options:Blackberry, Clementine, Apple, Grapefruit
- Calories per Can:70
- Juice Content:60% real fruit juice
- Sweeteners:No added sugar or artificial sweeteners
- Dietary Notes:Non-GMO and gluten-free
Bottom line: Izze is the safest first pick when variety, easy serving, and fruit-based sweetness matter most.
Poppi Prebiotic Soda Shirley Temple
Poppi Prebiotic Soda Shirley Temple is the best fit for buyers who want soda flavor with a lighter nutrition profile. Its 5 grams of sugar, 35 calories or less, and prebiotics from agave inulin and cassava root fiber make it very different from cane-sugar options like Nuka Victory Cola or Nuka Cola Grape. The Shirley Temple flavor also feels more playful than a plain mixer, so it can work on its own or in mocktails. The tradeoff is sweetness and body: it may not satisfy someone who wants a classic glass-bottle soda, and this pack sticks to one flavor. Compared with Izze, Poppi gives less variety but a stronger low-sugar angle.
Pros:- Only 5 grams of sugar per can
- 35 calories or less per can fits lighter drinking habits
- Includes prebiotics from agave inulin and cassava root fiber
- Shirley Temple flavor works as a standalone soda or mixer
Cons:- Less sweet and less full-bodied than traditional craft soda
- Single-flavor pack limits variety
- Added fibers may not suit every digestive preference
Best for: Low-sugar soda drinkers who want a fruity Shirley Temple profile plus prebiotic fiber in a ready-to-stock 12-pack.
Not ideal for: Traditional soda fans who want full cane-sugar sweetness and a heavier, classic soft-drink texture.
- Brand:Poppi
- Flavor:Shirley Temple
- Pack Count:12 cans
- Can Size:12 oz
- Calories per Can:35 or less
- Sugar per Can:5 grams
- Functional Ingredients:Agave inulin and cassava root fiber
- Base:Sparkling water and fruit juice
Bottom line: Pick Poppi Shirley Temple when low sugar and functional ingredients matter more than old-fashioned soda richness.
Poppi Strawberry Lemon Prebiotic Soda 4 Pack
Poppi Strawberry Lemon earns its place because it gives fruit-soda drinkers a lighter option without pushing into plain sparkling water territory. Compared with Fever-Tree Club Soda, it has more flavor and sweetness, while staying far lower in sugar than Jones Soda Co. Root Beer. I would rank it above Poppi Classic Cola for buyers who want a bright fruit profile instead of caffeine. The tradeoff is the apple cider vinegar tang, which can read sharp if someone expects a classic strawberry lemonade soda. The 4-pack is easy to try, but it is less practical than larger Poppi variety packs for households. This pick makes the most sense when low sugar and digestive-friendly ingredients matter more than old-school soda richness.
Pros:- Low sugar and low calories make it easier to fit into daily routines
- Prebiotics from agave inulin add a digestive-health angle
- Fruit-forward profile gives it more personality than plain club soda
- Small 4-pack works well for sampling before buying more
Cons:- Apple cider vinegar tang may be too sharp for classic soda fans
- Single-flavor pack lacks the variety of larger Poppi assortments
- Lighter body will not satisfy buyers chasing cane-sugar richness
Best for: Fruit-soda drinkers who want a low-sugar can with prebiotics and a tangy strawberry-lemon profile.
Not ideal for: Buyers who dislike vinegar notes or want a richer, cane-sugar craft soda like Jones Root Beer.
- Flavor:Strawberry Lemon
- Pack Size:4 cans
- Calories:25 or less per can
- Sugar:5g or less per can
- Functional Ingredients:Prebiotics from agave inulin
- Key Ingredient:Unfiltered apple cider vinegar
- Drink Style:Prebiotic soda
Bottom line: Choose this if you want a tangy, low-sugar fruit soda with functional ingredients rather than a traditional dessert-style craft soda.
Poppi Prebiotic Soda, Classic Cola, 12 Fl Oz
Poppi Classic Cola is the better Poppi pick for buyers who still want a cola cue, since its 40 mg of natural caffeine gives it more utility than Poppi Strawberry Lemon. Compared with Jones Soda Co. Root Beer, it is much lighter at 35 calories and 5 grams of sugar, so the appeal is balance rather than indulgence. I would not put it above cane-sugar sodas for a party cooler because the flavor may feel less nostalgic. It also comes as a single 12-ounce can, which makes value weaker than multi-packs like Fever-Tree Club Soda or the Fallout Sunset Sarsaparilla 4 Pack. Still, for a mid-day cola swap, prebiotics plus caffeine make it more purposeful than a standard craft cola.
Pros:- Natural caffeine gives it more lift than caffeine-free fruit sodas
- Only 5 grams of sugar per can keeps it lighter than cane-sugar options
- Prebiotics from agave inulin and cassava root fiber add functional appeal
- Classic cola flavor makes it an easier swap for soda drinkers
Cons:- Single-can format is not a strong value for groups
- May not satisfy buyers who want a full traditional cola taste
- Sweetener and additive details are less clear from the product data
Best for: Cola drinkers who want a lower-sugar afternoon can with caffeine and added prebiotics.
Not ideal for: Hosts stocking a party cooler, since one can offers poor coverage compared with multi-packs.
- Flavor:Classic Cola
- Volume:12 fl oz
- Pack Size:1 can
- Calories:35 or less per can
- Sugar:5 grams per can
- Caffeine:40 mg
- Functional Ingredients:Agave inulin and cassava root fiber
- Drink Style:Prebiotic cola soda
Bottom line: Pick this for a lighter cola replacement with caffeine, not for a full-flavor craft soda showcase.
Fever-Tree Club Soda – Premium Zero Calorie Mixer, 24 cans of 5.1 fl oz
Fever-Tree Club Soda belongs in this lineup because craft soda buyers often need a clean mixer, not only a sweet bottle. Against Poppi Strawberry Lemon and Poppi Classic Cola, it gives up flavor and functional prebiotics, but its zero-calorie profile and fine carbonation make it more flexible for cocktails, mocktails, and highballs. Compared with Fallout Sunset Sarsaparilla, it is less fun as a stand-alone treat, yet far easier to pair with spirits or citrus. The small 5.1-ounce cans help reduce waste when making single drinks, though they may feel undersized for anyone sipping soda on its own. I would rank it as the best bar-cart choice, not the best dessert soda.
Pros:- Zero calories make it easy to pair with richer drinks
- Scottish sea salt adds structure without added sweetness
- Small cans reduce leftover flat soda when mixing one drink
- 24-can pack suits gatherings and stocked home bars
Cons:- No added flavor, so it is less exciting as a stand-alone soda
- 5.1-ounce cans may be too small for casual sipping
- Likely pricier than basic grocery-store club soda
Best for: Home-bar buyers who want small cans of crisp, zero-calorie club soda for cocktails and mocktails.
Not ideal for: Craft-soda fans seeking bold sweetness or a distinctive flavor, since this is an unflavored mixer.
- Drink Type:Club soda
- Can Size:5.1 fl oz
- Quantity:24 cans
- Calories:Zero
- Key Ingredient:Scottish sea salt
- Ingredient Style:Real ingredients
- Flavor:Unflavored
- Alcohol Content:Non-alcoholic
Bottom line: Buy this for mixed drinks and low-waste serving, not for a bold craft soda flavor.
Jones Soda Co. Root Beer Soda Flavor – 100% Cane Sugar, Glass Bottle
Jones Soda Co. Root Beer is the most traditional craft-soda pick in this group, built around 100% cane sugar and a glass-bottle presentation. Compared with Poppi Classic Cola, it is less wellness-minded and likely higher in sugar, but it offers the richer, old-fashioned payoff many buyers expect from root beer. Against Fallout Sunset Sarsaparilla, this is the safer crowd choice because root beer is more familiar than a game-inspired sarsaparilla flavor. The downside is range: one bottle and one flavor make it less useful for stocking a mixed cooler than Fever-Tree’s 24 cans or larger Jones packs elsewhere in the roundup. I would choose this when classic flavor and bottle feel outrank calorie control.
Pros:- Cane sugar gives it a more classic soda sweetness
- Glass bottle makes it feel more giftable and party-ready
- Root beer flavor has broader appeal than niche limited editions
- Fan-submitted and augmented reality label elements add personality
Cons:- Single-bottle format is limited for entertaining
- Higher-sugar style is less suited to daily lighter sipping
- Glass packaging can raise cost and shipping risk
Best for: Root beer fans who want a cane-sugar craft soda in a glass bottle for a classic treat.
Not ideal for: Low-sugar shoppers or anyone who wants a multi-flavor variety pack for a group.
- Brand:Jones Soda Co.
- Flavor:Root Beer
- Sweetener:100% cane sugar
- Packaging:Glass bottle
- Volume:1 bottle
- Label Feature:Augmented reality labels
- Brand Feature:Fan-submitted content
Bottom line: Choose this when you want a familiar cane-sugar root beer with more craft character than a standard can.
Fallout Sunset Sarsaparilla 12oz Jones Soda 4 Pack
Fallout Sunset Sarsaparilla ranks as the specialty pick because it blends Jones Soda’s glass-bottle craft format with a Fallout-inspired flavor. Compared with Jones Soda Co. Root Beer, it is less universal but more giftable for fans who care about the reference. It also has a better shareable format than the single Jones Root Beer bottle, since the 4-pack of 12-ounce bottles can serve a small watch party or collector display. Against Poppi Strawberry Lemon, this is the opposite kind of buy: cane sugar and novelty over low calories and prebiotics. The tradeoff is broad appeal. Sarsaparilla can be polarizing, glass is fragile for travel, and the theme may matter more than the soda for some buyers. Still, collectible presentation gives it a clear lane.
Pros:- Fallout theme makes it stronger as a gift than standard craft sodas
- Cane sugar supports a more traditional soda profile
- Four glass bottles suit small gatherings or display
- Augmented reality labels add collector-friendly interaction
Cons:- Sarsaparilla flavor may be too specific for mixed groups
- Glass bottles are less convenient for travel or outdoor events
- Novelty angle may outweigh drink value for non-fans
Best for: Fallout fans and gift buyers who want a themed cane-sugar soda with collectible appeal.
Not ideal for: Everyday soda drinkers who want familiar flavors, lighter nutrition, or travel-friendly cans.
- Brand:Jones Soda
- Flavor:Sunset Sarsaparilla
- Theme:Fallout-inspired
- Bottle Size:12 oz
- Pack Size:4 bottles
- Packaging:Glass bottles
- Sweetener:Cane sugar
- Label Feature:Augmented reality labels
Bottom line: Pick this for a fan-focused gift or themed gathering, while Jones Root Beer is the safer everyday craft soda.
Poppi Prebiotic Soda, Sparkling Water & Fruit Juice, Major Mix, 12 Oz, 12 Pack
I rank Poppi Major Mix highest for buyers who want craft-style soda flavors without the full sugar load. Compared with Jones Soda Co. Orange Cream Soda or Jones Soda Co. Green Apple Soda, this pack trades cane-sugar richness and glass-bottle charm for 5 grams of sugar, 35 calories or less, and a wider flavor spread. That makes it easier to serve mixed tastes at home: cola drinkers, citrus fans, and cream soda fans all get a lane. The tradeoff is that it feels less like a classic craft soda than the Jones bottles, and the prebiotic angle may matter more to wellness-minded buyers than soda purists. The Cherry Cola caffeine is useful, but only one flavor gets that lift.
Pros:- Six-flavor variety covers cola, citrus, cream, and root beer preferences
- Low sugar and low calorie count make it easier to drink casually
- Agave inulin and cassava root fiber add prebiotic appeal
- Cherry Cola adds light caffeine for buyers who want a small lift
Cons:- Less traditional craft character than cane-sugar glass-bottle sodas
- Artificial flavors and sweeteners may put off cleaner-label shoppers
- Caffeine is limited to Cherry Cola, so the pack feels uneven for energy seekers
Best for: Households that want a lower-sugar craft soda variety pack with familiar flavors and a functional prebiotic angle.
Not ideal for: Cane-sugar soda purists who prefer glass bottles and a fuller classic soda body.
- Flavor Variety:Shirley Temple, Root Beer, Orange Cream, Lemon Lime, Cream Soda, Cherry Cola
- Can Size:12 oz
- Pack Size:12 cans
- Calories:35 or less per can
- Sugar:5 grams per can
- Caffeine:40 mg in Cherry Cola
- Prebiotic Sources:Agave inulin and cassava root fiber
Bottom line: This is the best pick for buyers who want craft-inspired flavor variety with a lighter nutrition profile.
Jones Soda Co. Orange Cream Soda – 4 Glass Bottles
Jones Soda Co. Orange Cream Soda earns its place as the dessert-leaning pick in this group. Against Poppi Major Mix, it is less practical for low-sugar buyers, but it better fits the classic craft soda brief: 100% cane sugar, glass bottles, and a focused orange-vanilla profile. Compared with Jones Soda Co. Green Apple Soda, this is softer and creamier, so it suits buyers who want a soda that feels closer to a float than a tart fruit drink. The main drawback is range. A four-pack of one flavor is a narrow bet, especially for parties. The interactive labels add gift appeal, but they do not offset the lower convenience of glass for travel or stocking a crowd.
Pros:- Orange cream flavor gives it a dessert-like identity
- 100% cane sugar supports a more classic soda taste
- Glass bottles create a more giftable craft feel
- Augmented reality labels and fan artwork add personality
Cons:- Single-flavor four-pack is limited for mixed groups
- Glass bottles are less convenient for travel or casual packing
- Likely less budget-friendly per serving than larger canned variety packs
Best for: Fans of sweet, nostalgic cream soda who want a small craft four-pack with glass-bottle presentation.
Not ideal for: Party hosts who need multiple flavors or buyers trying to keep sugar intake low.
- Flavor:Orange Cream
- Sweetener:100% cane sugar
- Packaging:Glass bottles
- Quantity:4 bottles
- Pack Format:Single-flavor four-pack
- Label Feature:Augmented reality labels
- Artwork:Fan-submitted bottle artwork
Bottom line: Choose this when the goal is a nostalgic, creamy craft soda rather than a broad variety pack.
Jones Soda Co. Fallout Vault-Tec Supply Pack, 12 fl oz, 12-count
The Jones Soda Co. Fallout Vault-Tec Supply Pack is less about everyday fridge stocking and more about presentation, gifting, and fandom. Compared with Poppi Major Mix, it has fewer flavors and more sugar, but it feels more like a special craft soda set because of the glass bottles, retro artwork, metal caps, and included bottle opener. It also has more variety than Jones Soda Co. Orange Cream Soda, with Sarsaparilla Root Beer, Citrus Berry Lemonade, and Dark Grape in one 12-count pack. The downside is clear: limited-edition branding can raise the price and make repeat buying harder. Since it is caffeine-free, it works well for evening gaming parties, but buyers seeking a lighter daily soda should rank Poppi higher.
Pros:- Themed Fallout packaging gives it strong gift and collector appeal
- Three retro-inspired flavors offer more range than single-flavor Jones packs
- Pure cane sugar supports a classic craft soda profile
- Includes magnetic bottle opener and collectible caps
Cons:- Limited-edition availability makes it harder to rely on as a repeat purchase
- Sugar content makes it a poor fit for low-sugar diets
- Glass bottles can be fragile during shipping or party transport
Best for: Collectors, gaming-party hosts, and gift buyers who want a themed craft soda set with display value.
Not ideal for: Daily soda drinkers who want low sugar, easy restocking, or cans that ship and store more simply.
- Bottle Size:12 fl oz
- Quantity:12 bottles
- Flavors:Sarsaparilla Root Beer, Citrus Berry Lemonade, Dark Grape
- Bottle Material:Glass
- Sweetener:Pure cane sugar
- Caffeine:Caffeine-free
- Gluten:Gluten-free
- Made In:USA
- Included Extras:Magnetic bottle opener and collectible bottle caps
Bottom line: This is the craft soda pack I would pick for gifting or a themed gathering, not for everyday low-sugar sipping.
Jones Soda Co. Green Apple Soda – 4 Glass Bottles
Jones Soda Co. Green Apple Soda is the sharper fruit pick in this batch. Compared with Jones Soda Co. Orange Cream Soda, it leans brighter and more tart, so it suits buyers who want a clean fruit snap instead of a creamy dessert profile. Next to Poppi Major Mix, it gives up low sugar and flavor variety, but gains a more classic craft-soda feel from 100% cane sugar and glass bottles. I would rank it below the Fallout Vault-Tec pack for gifting because it lacks the collector extras, yet its Granny Smith-style flavor is more direct and less theme-driven. The main risk is commitment: a four-pack of a tart single flavor can be polarizing if the drinker prefers cola, root beer, or cream soda.
Pros:- Tart green apple profile gives it a clear identity
- 100% cane sugar supports a fuller classic soda taste
- Glass bottles make it feel more polished than standard cans
- Interactive labels add extra appeal beyond the drink itself
Cons:- Single tart flavor may be too narrow for group serving
- Higher-sugar craft style will not suit low-sugar shoppers
- Glass bottles are fragile and less convenient for travel
Best for: Buyers who like tart apple candy-style sodas and want a small glass-bottle craft pack.
Not ideal for: Shoppers buying for a mixed group where some people may prefer cola, root beer, or sweeter cream soda.
- Flavor:Green Apple
- Quantity:4 bottles
- Sweetener:100% cane sugar
- Packaging:Glass bottles
- Flavor Profile:Crisp, tart, Granny Smith-style apple
- Pack Format:Single-flavor four-pack
- Label Feature:Augmented reality labels
Bottom line: Pick this when tart fruit flavor matters more than variety, caffeine, or collector packaging.
How We Picked
I ranked these sodas by how well they answer the promise of best craft sodas: flavor identity, ingredient appeal, packaging, versatility, and value. Classic glass-bottle cane-sugar picks scored well when they delivered a distinct soda-shop feel without relying only on branding. Functional sodas earned credit for lower sugar and modern ingredients, but they needed enough flavor to compete with traditional craft options. Mixer-style products were judged by carbonation quality, serving size, and usefulness rather than dessert-like flavor.
The final order favors sodas that make the clearest buying case. Jones Root Beer lands highest because it works for the widest group of buyers, while Izze and Poppi rise when variety, lighter drinking, or prebiotic positioning matter more than old-fashioned soda richness. Collector packs and Fallout tie-ins rank well for gift value and personality, but they sit behind more versatile choices for everyday drinking. I gave less weight to novelty when a product overlapped closely with another bottle in the lineup.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Craft Sodas
Choosing among the best craft sodas is less about finding one universal winner and more about matching the drink to the occasion. I would sort the shelf by flavor style, sweetness level, packaging, functional ingredients, and whether the soda is meant for sipping straight or mixing.
Flavor Style And Sweetness
The biggest split in this roundup is between classic soda flavors and lighter fruit-driven drinks. Root beer, orange cream, green apple, grape, and sarsaparilla feel closer to old soda-shop treats, which makes them better for buyers who want a richer, sweeter drink. Izze leans cleaner and fruitier, so it fits lunches, gatherings, and people who do not want a syrup-heavy finish. Poppi sits between those poles, using fruit juice and prebiotic ingredients to soften the soda feel. A common mistake is buying a novelty flavor as the house soda for everyone; bold grape or green apple can be fun, but they are less flexible than root beer or a mixed variety pack. If only one case is going in the fridge, I would choose a flavor with broad appeal before chasing the wildest bottle.
Glass Bottles, Cans, And Serving Size
Glass bottles create the strongest craft impression, especially with Jones, because the format feels giftable and deliberate. The tradeoff is that bottles are heavier, take more storage space, and can cost more per serving. Cans are easier for lunchboxes, office fridges, and casual hosting, which is why Izze and Poppi make more sense for frequent drinking. Smaller cans, like Fever-Tree’s mixer size, reduce waste when one drink or cocktail is the goal. Buyers sometimes pay for bottle charm when they really need fridge efficiency. I would reserve glass for occasions where presentation matters and choose cans when the soda needs to disappear into daily routine.
Classic Craft Versus Functional Soda
The Poppi options bring prebiotic positioning into a category that was once mostly about cane sugar and nostalgia. That can be a smart buy for someone who wants less sugar and a lighter can, but it changes the expectation. Classic craft soda is usually about bold flavor, texture, and a treat-like finish; functional soda is more about moderation and repeatability. Poppi Classic Cola may sound like the safest bridge, but cola is also one of the hardest flavors to reinterpret because buyers compare it with familiar mainstream colas. Shirley Temple and Strawberry Lemon have an easier job because fruit-led profiles naturally fit Poppi’s lighter style. I would choose functional soda for daily sipping, not for replacing the most indulgent glass-bottle picks.
Collector Appeal Versus Everyday Value
Several Jones picks carry Fallout branding, collectible caps, or bundled extras, and those details matter if the soda is a gift. The Sunset Sarsaparilla set with caps and a bottle opener has more shelf appeal than a plain multipack. The downside is that collector packaging can push buyers toward paying for the theme rather than the liquid. If the recipient likes Fallout or display-worthy bottles, that premium can feel justified. If the goal is stocking a fridge for guests, the same money may go further with Izze, Poppi Major Mix, or a straightforward Jones flavor. I would treat collector packs as occasion buys rather than the baseline for value.
Mixing, Parties, And Food Pairing
Not every soda in this lineup plays the same role at a table. Fever-Tree Club Soda is the clearest mixer, built for carbonation, clean taste, and portion control rather than bold sweetness. Jones Root Beer and Orange Cream make better dessert pairings, especially with burgers, barbecue, or ice cream. Izze’s fruit variety works well when guests want something light but still festive. Poppi can cover the middle ground for people avoiding heavy sugar while still wanting a flavored can. For parties, I would buy one crowd-pleasing classic, one lighter variety option, and one mixer instead of betting the whole spread on a single quirky flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which craft soda should I buy if I only want one safe pick?
I would choose Jones Soda Co. Root Beer Soda Flavor as the safest single pick. Root beer has enough personality to feel craft, but it is familiar enough for mixed groups. It also avoids the narrow appeal of grape, green apple, or themed collector bottles. Compared with Poppi, it feels more like a traditional treat; compared with Izze, it has more classic soda richness. The main drawback is sugar, so it is less ideal for buyers seeking a lighter daily drink.
Are Poppi sodas a good substitute for traditional craft soda?
Poppi is a good substitute when lower sugar, prebiotics, and lighter cans matter more than a full cane-sugar soda experience. Shirley Temple and Strawberry Lemon are the easiest Poppi picks to recommend because their fruit profiles fit the brand’s lighter style. Classic Cola is more divisive because cola drinkers often expect deeper caramel notes and a familiar finish. Compared with Jones, Poppi feels more modern and less indulgent. I would buy it for repeat sipping, not for someone who wants a nostalgic glass-bottle soda.
Is Izze really a craft soda or more of a sparkling juice?
Izze Sparkling Juice Variety Pack sits closer to sparkling juice than old-fashioned craft soda, but that can be a strength. It is lighter, fruitier, and easier to serve across age groups than many richer cane-sugar bottles. Compared with Jones, it has less soda-shop character and less dessert appeal. Compared with Poppi, it feels more juice-forward and less functional. I would pick Izze when variety and everyday drinkability matter more than a bold craft-soda identity.
Are the Fallout Jones sodas worth buying?
The Fallout Jones Soda options make the most sense as gifts, collectibles, or themed party drinks. Nuka Cola Grape, Nuka Victory Cola, Sunset Sarsaparilla, and the Vault-Tec Supply Pack all carry more personality than a standard case. The tradeoff is that fandom appeal can matter as much as flavor, which may not suit buyers who only care about value per bottle. Compared with Jones Root Beer or Orange Cream, these are less universal. I would buy them for the right fan, not as the default family soda.
Why include Fever-Tree Club Soda in a craft soda roundup?
Fever-Tree Club Soda belongs here because some buyers use craft soda as a mixer category rather than a sweet-sipping category. It offers premium carbonation, zero calories, and small cans that make sense for cocktails or mocktails. That said, it is not competing on flavor the way Jones, Izze, or Poppi are. If someone wants a standalone soda, Fever-Tree will feel too plain. I would choose it for bar carts, not for dessert night.
Conclusion
My best overall pick is Jones Soda Co. Root Beer Soda Flavor because it gives the strongest blend of craft feel, broad appeal, and classic flavor. For best value, I would choose Izze Sparkling Juice Variety Pack because the 24-count format and flavor mix make it easier to serve often. The best premium gift is Jones Soda Co. Sunset Sarsaparilla with collectible caps and a bottle opener, while Jones Orange Cream Soda is my pick for beginners who want a friendly glass-bottle flavor. For specific needs, I would choose Poppi Shirley Temple for lower-sugar prebiotic sipping, Fever-Tree Club Soda for mixing, and the Fallout Vault-Tec Supply Pack for fans and collectors. If the goal is one dependable craft soda, buy Jones Root Beer; if the goal is variety, lighter drinking, or gifting, the better choice changes fast.
