Taste Test Dummies

Which Pineapple soda is best?  In the world of fruit sodas, everyone thinks of the basics like Orange, Grape, Strawberry. This week we try a fruit that has a surprising number of options, Pineapple. Will it end up being the best fruit soda? No, probably not. But we're going to figure out what the best option is in case we get a craving for Pineapple. This week's contenders are Fanta, Jarritos, Jones, and Jupina. Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

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Which Anejo Tequila is best?  It has been quite a while since we first tried Silver Tequilas, and in that time we've both had fazes where we drink a fair amount of tequila.  Despite this, neither of us have tried much Anejo tequila.  Today we are going to try 3 of the most popular brands to see which is best, while also determining if the extra money for Anejoa Tequila is worth it. This week's contenders are Casamigos, Don Julio, and Patron. Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or ema...

Which chocolate milk is best?  Chocolate milk is an odd beverage for us because there was a large stretch of our lives where we drank it nearly every day, but have seldom drank it since. Today we are going to dive back into chocolate milk to determine which brand is best, and if it deserves a place in our current lives. This week's contenders are Fairlife, Hershey, Nesquick, and Yoohoo.

Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

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Which pre-made margarita is best?  There are 3 main categories of premade margarita, and I will do my best to explain the difference. There are cans that stay around the 5%-12% range, you can buy margarita mix which comes in a bunch of fruity flavors and stay around 12%-15%, then finally there are the cocktails in what looks like a bottle of liquor that are around 20%. Don't worry if you are lost because so am I. This episode we are going to try the last tier. The contenders are Astral, Hueblein, and On the Rocks. Please like and subscribe and i...

Which Mini Chocolate Donut is best?  There isn't any substitute for a freshly made donut, but when I am in a gas station and want something sweet I often find myself looking at the mini donuts. I normally look for the chocolate flavor, so sorry to any powdered sugar fans out there. This week we will be trying out the 3 main snack cake brands' version of the chocolate mini donut: Entenmann's, Hostess, and Little Debbie. Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

Which Grape Juice is best?  We have already tackled many of the big juices out there; orange, apple, fruit punch, etc. But this week we get to a personal childhood favorite, Grape Juice.  Naturally, I understand the inclination to debate white vs purple grape juice but today we will just stick with the purple.  This weeks contenders are Juicy Juice, Old Orchard, and Welch's.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which...

Which Pre-Mixed Old Fashioned is best?  The already mixed cocktail market seems to be growing more popular all the time.  Margaritas started the trend decades ago, but companies have finally caught on that most popular cocktails could be packaged in the same way.  This week we will try out the go to whiskey cocktail for people who want to look fancy in a nice bar/restaurant, the old fashioned. Side note, I am not throwing shade because I have done this myself on many occasions .  This weeks contenders are Bulleit, Glenlivet, and On the Rocks.  Please like and subscribe and i...

Which Chocolate covered Turtles are best?  As Mr. Gump points out, when you buy a box of chocolate, you don't know everything that will be inside.  This week we will sample one common offering that I would expect to see from three popular chocolate brands, so at least you will know which box has the best quality.  This weeks contenders are Demets  (Turtle), Fannie Mae, and Russell Stover.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is...

Which Orange Juice is best?  "Last episode you did Pre-biotic sodas, you're telling me you haven't done orange juice yet?" I don't really appreciate the tone, but in fact we have not.  It has taken this long because neither of us are the biggest OJ drinkers but this week we finally get one of the biggest monkeys off our backs.  And to answer your next question, we can fit 14 monkeys on our backs. This weeks contenders are Florida's Natural, Simply, and Tropicana.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or e...

Which Prebiotic Lemon Lime Soda is best?  There is a new fad in the soda world, and it seems to be growing fast.  This week we are trying out some of these new "healthy" sodas, which are officially marketed as Prebiotic or Probiotic.  The timing of our recording this episode was a bit unfortunate because after we tried out these sodas, my local grocery store started carrying 3 more brands.  For now we will be testing to see if any of the contenders  (Culture Pop, Olipop, and Poppi) are any good.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any sugges...

Which Blue Cheese Stuffed Green Olive is best?  Olives are the type of food you just eat when you have a martini or a charcuterie board, but it also makes for a nice little snack. I have never really considered which Olives to search for considering I just buy the first one I see, but this week we are going to try three popular brands to determine which is best.  The contenders are Filthy, Mezzetta, and Tillen Farms.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nic...

Which Cream Soda is best?  We all know the basic Coke/Pepsi players on the market, but beyond the major brands there is a pretty large world of craft sodas.  The first flavors that come to mind as Root Beer and Cream Soda. We have already tried some Root Beers on the Podcast, but this week we are bringing back some of the competitors (and a new one) to see which Cream Soda is best. The contenders are A&W, Boylan, Dad's and Virgil's.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us...

Which Chocolate Chip Protein Bar is best?  We like to remain humble but we need to get something out of the way that cannot be denied, Nick and John are a couple of swole beef-cakes.  Due to this, we've had plenty of protein bars over the years, but usually just pick something random based on price.  This week we will try 4 chocolate chip flavored protein bars to finally get a read on which brands are worth looking for. The contenders are Barbell, Gatorade, MetRx and Quest.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by t...

Which Pumpkin Beer is best? The world has gotten to the point where beer sections only really include Lagers and IPAs.  Both options have their place in the world, but it's time to celebrate the one time of year when they have to make room for a third option, fall beers.  At the time of this release we are well past the season, but we are going to try 4 Pumpkin Ales just to relish in the season a bit longer. The contenders are Dogfish, New Belgium, Potosi and Shipyard.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let...

Which Orange flavored energy drink is best? Fifteen years ago there were only a handful of brands that made an energy drink and they all tasted suspiciously like gasoline.  Flash forward to today and there are dozens of brands all making 5+ flavors.  This week we are going to find the best Orange energy drink because it is a flavor we both regularly overlook. .  The contenders are Alani, C4, and Monster.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

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Which Candy Corn is best? Candy Corn is the king of fall candies.  We all respect its supremacy while not loving the flavor, but now we will ask the important question, does the candy corn you pick matter?  This week Nick and John will try heavy hitters Brach's and Jelly Belly and compare them against a couple store brands from Candy Shoppe and Walmart.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of whic...

Which blended scotch is best? In a previous episode we tasted 4 different Johnnie Walker varieties and both Nick and John picked Black Label as their favorite.  This week we bring Johnnie Walker Black Label back to compete against a couple brands closer to their price point, Chivas Regal and Monkey Shoulder.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which scotch corresponds to which numbered glass it was in: 1. Johnnie Walker 2. Chivas...

Which microwave dinner is best? It would be great to eat out at fancy restaurants every night, eating food prepared by seasoned chefs.  Unfortunately in this reality sometimes all you have is $5 and a microwave.  This week we are here to determine which microwave dinner brand is best, and more specifically which one makes the best Fettuccini Alfredo (with chicken and broccoli).  The contenders are Lean Cuisine, Marie Callender's, and Stouffer's.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

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Which cheese cracker with peanut butter is best? Not all pairings make sense on paper at first glance, chili powder and chocolate? Seems odd but actually a pretty good combination.  Apple Pie and American cheese? Sounds gross but people swear by it.  How about Cheddar Cheese Crackers and Peanut Butter? Well that's what we task ourselves with determining this week.  Does the combination make any sense, and more importantly, who does it best? The contenders are Austin, Kebler, and Munchies.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us a...

Which coffee region is best? I'm a pretty big fan of coffee, but normally I don't think too much about what I am buying.  I have a list of brands I prefer, and digging deeper a few specific blends that I like.  When I get to the store I hope one of them is on sale, and will just grab the cheapest.  Although this process has worked for me, I figured we needed to take coffee from 3 different regions and find out more specifically what types of coffee I enjoy.  This week we will try Coffee Beans from Colombia, Ethi...

Which Hot Buffalo Wing Sauce is best? In the past we have tried the "Hot" sauce from different wing restaurants, but this week we take a different the same category in a different direction.  We are getting boneless wings without sauce, and then adding different brands that you can buy in a bottle.  The contenders are Anchor Bar (hotter), Buffalo Wild Wings (Wild), and Hooter (Hot).  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list...

Which Asian Beer is best? Right off the bat, calling the category "Asian beer" feels a little too vague.  Many Asian countries produce beer known around the world, but where we live they are much harder to find.  So this week we are trying 5 beers from 3 countries trying to determine if the country of origin makes a big difference in the taste, and most importantly which beer is worth buying.  The contenders are Kingfisher (India), Kirin (Japan), Lucky Buddha (China), Sapporo (Japan), and TsingTao (China).  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by twee...

Which Oreo knock off is best? The original creme filled chocolate sandwich cookie was released in 1908 by Hydrox, a couple years later Nabisco responded with Oreo.  Despite Oreo not being the original, they somehow ended up changing the snack game forever.  Although there are alternatives out there (including Hydrox being an Amazon exclusive) we are going to anoint Oreo king and compare them to 3 of their off brands to see if any of the little guys can compete with Oreo in a blind taste test.  This weeks contenders are Oreo, Trader Joe's, Wal-Mart, and Whole Foods.  Please like and subs...

This week we bring Joe back for another visit, and this time he chose to challenge our past results by making us retry some things we have had on the pod in the past.  We will jump straight to some FAQ:

Q: What Items are being retried? 

A: Tortilla Chips, Hot Salsa, Lemon Lime Soda, Lime Seltzer, Light Beer, Whisky

Q: John and Nick are known to have the best taste buds in the world, what is the point of testing them?

A: Correct Nick and John do have the best ta...

Which Lime Beer is best? At first glance lime beers feels like a typical lager with a small maybe gimmicky change to sell more cases. Then the grueling summer months hit and suddenly the lime beer feels like a refreshing change.  This week we try to find another glimmer of hope in a long, hot summer by trying out 4 lime beers, and 3 of them advertise the addition of salt so we will also see if this is a welcome addition. This weeks contenders are Bud Light, Dos Equis, Modelo, and Shiner.  Please like and subscribe and if you have an...

Which Gummy Bear brand is best? Nick, our senior sweet snack specialist, has always been a big fan of gummy snacks. But the combination of negative memories (unfair) and a plethora of other gummy snack options, gummy bears have never been his go-to option.  This week we give gummy bears their day in court to figure out which is best, and really if this category deserves our attention in the first place.  This weeks contenders are Albanese, Black Forrest, Haribo, and Lily's.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or...

Which Brie is best? When you are feeling a bit charcuterie-ey Looking through the cheese options in a grocery store can be intimidating.  Normally Nick and John just look for sales and try to at least buy a cheaper option then forget what we purchased. But do you really want to live your life eating everyone else's leftover cheese?  Those of you who said yes can see themselves out. Those who stayed will get insights on which Brie is actually worth buying, instead of the guess and forget method.  This weeks contenders are Le Fromager, President, and Saint Angel.  Plea...

Which American IPA is best? A while back the Hazy IPA hit a level of popularity which pressured Nick into bringing it as the first IPA on this podcast.  Now a year or so later, we find ourselves missing the good old fashion IPAs we originally fell for.  Today we are taking a strangely nostalgic trip through some of the American Style IPAs that used to be our go to (and only) option.  The contenders are Goose Island IPA, New Belgium Voodoo Ranger, Sierra Nevada Torpedo, and Surly Furious.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let...

Which Diet Cola is best? Sodas with alternative sugars are becoming more popular all the time as it presents a way for the consumer to drink their beloved sodas, while still feeling good about themselves because they just consumed a  calorie free beverage.  Although health benefits are much more complicated than a calorie counter, here at Taste Test Dummies we fully endorse the "pretend this is good for me" methodology.  With this wishful thinking in mind, we will try out 4 Diet Colas this week.  The contenders are Diet Coke, Diet Faygo, Diet Pepsi, and Diet Rite.  Please like and subsc...

Which French Onion Dip is best?  On their own, a ruffled potato chip is a mediocre chip on a good day.  When you take the Ruffles and use them as a vessel to get dip into your mouth, we are looking at an entirely different story.  This week we are trying 3 pre-made French Onion Dips, the undisputed best dip to pair with potato chips (legally I am required to point out that my prior statement was a [correct] opinion, not a fact).  The contenders are Daisy, Dean's and Lay's.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let u...

Which Tortilla Chip is best?  We've tried Salsa and Guacamole, but we haven't yet asked what the best vessel for these dips are, that is until today.  The tortilla chip is often overlooked in the dip formula, but small differences in texture, and salt level can make a surprisingly big difference.  The contenders for today are Late July, On The Border, Tostitos, and Xochitl.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which...

Which Orange sports drink is best?  Our first round of sports drink was with a more obscure flavor (grape), but this time we are getting back to one of the original flavors.  Non-Gatorade versions of lemon lime proved hard to come by, and Fruit Punch is disgusting, so the obvious choice was to try out Orange flavored sports drinks.  The contenders are Gatorade, Ghost, and Powerade.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list o...

Which canned Paloma cocktail is best?  The cocktail in a can idea seems to be getting more popular all the time so it's time to try out a second offering.  The problem with the canned Paloma specifically is how simple it is to make, so is it even worth buy it premade?  Today we put 3 already made cocktails to the test, and later on try our own creation.  The contenders are Cazadores, Cutwater, and Fresca.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

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Which Jelly bean bag is best?  This week in celebration of Easter candy being at the store, we are going to try out some bags of jelly beans that are available for the holiday.  Nick (somewhat controversially) excluded Jelly Belly because they are available year round and have too many flavors to compare to the other bags.  Some may disagree with this decision, but obviously those people are incorrect.  Now onto the bags of beans that did make it to the show.  The contenders are Brachs, Jolly Rancher, Skittles, Starburst, and Welch's.  Please like and subscribe and if you have a...

Which Dark chocolate with sea salt and almonds is best?  This week we try out some dark chocolates.  Every brand seems to have random ingredients added to their products, but the sea salt and almond variation seems to be rather popular although this specific combination is not something either of us have much experience with.  Today the contenders are Chocolove, Ghirardelli, Lily's, and Theo.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which...

Which Irish stout is best?  Which Irish Red Ale is best?  This week we do something a little different and do two head to head matchups of different Irish beers in a celebration of St Patrick's Day.  We both try Irish Dry Stouts from Guinness and Left Hand, as well as Irish Red Ales from Killian's and Smithwick's.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which beer corresponds to which numbered...

Which Aged Cheddar is best?  Looking over the backlog of episodes, one category jumped out to us as being unfairly neglected.  We have reviewed string cheese in the past, but the list ends there (unless you count Oreos with Cheese Whiz).  This week we are going to ease our way in with some aged cheddar.  The competitors are Cabot, Cracker Barrell, and Kerrygold.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which che...

Which Gruner Veltliner is best? This week we are back trying out wine, and this time we have 3 Austrian Gruner Veltliner.  For the non Austrian listeners, this is a white wine known to be of higher acidity and also drier than most white wines. The competitors are Biokult, Hasen Sprung, and Pratsch.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which wine corresponds to which numbered glass it was in: 1. Hasen Sprun...

Which Raspberry sweet tea is best? This week we are trying out 4 raspberry sweet teas.  The competitors are Brisk, Gold Peak, Peace Tea and Pure Leaf.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which tea corresponds to which numbered glass it was in: 1. Peace Tea 2. Pure Leaf 3. Brisk 4. Gold Peak

Which Pisco is best? Fresh off his trip to Peru, Nick wanted to bring something unique from his travels to try.  Pisco is an unaged brandy most commonly made in Peru and Chile.  The most common way to drink this liquor is in a Pisco sour, but this week we will be trying out 4 brands neat to see what Pisco has to offer.  The competitors are Inca Pisco, Lablanco, Santa Maria Magdalena, and Taberno.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

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Which Strawberry Soda is best? This week we take another plunge into the world of fruit sodas by trying some Strawberry soda.  Usually with similar products we try to bring in the winners of past episodes, but unfortunately Welch's has made their offering impossible to find.  Instead we will stick with stalwarts (Crush and Fanta) being joined by two new commers (Faygo and Jarritos).  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of whic...

Which Rose Prosecco is best? A while back we compared the Proseccos of three brands, La Marca, Mionetto, and Ruffino.  This week in an (accidental?) celebration of New Years, we are doing a rematch of these three brands but instead with their Rose variety.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which wine corresponds to which numbered glass it was in: 1. Ruffino 2. La Marca 3. Mionetto

Which Ginger Ale is best?  Last time we did Ginger Ale we brought in some more obscure competitors in hopes of getting more ginger flavor.  This plan didn't work out super well so now the big names in the Ginger Ale industry are here to see if they can do any better.  The competitors are Canada Dry, Schweppe's, Seagram's and Vernor's.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which soda correspo...

Which Boneless hot wing is best?  This week we bring in some popular hot wings from national food chains.  The first two contenders are a little obvious with Buffalo Wild Wings and Wing Stop.  The last restaurant to be included was Applebees simply because there is no Hooters anywhere near us, and Applebees has a Hot Boneless Wing on their menu.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which wing correspo...

Which Fruit Punch is best?  This week Vivi comes back and we bring in a juice with the intention of changing some minds.  Fruit Punch is a term that causes all three of us to shy away, but in this episode we will try out 4 Fruit Punch juices to see if we can get past out pre conceived notions.  The contenders are Juicy Juice, Simply, V8 (fruit medley) and Welch's.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOIL...

Which Japanese Curry sauce mix is best?  This week we make try three different pre made Japanese curry sauces.  In order to make this applicable to a real setting we added in some vegetables, served over rice, and added some pork Katsu.  The contenders are S&B Golden Curry Hot, S&B Curry Sauce, and Vermont Curry Hot.  Although two of the contenders seem similar, we find out that the "golden" does in fact make a difference.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail...

Which Classic Potato Chip is best?  Sometimes categories are so obvious, deep thinkers like Nick and John are operating on too high of a level to consider them.  This week we are finally getting to a classic potato chip, but with a little bit of a twist.  Of course the first contender is Lay's Classic, with a similar product of Munchos joining them.  Then for the other half of the field we are throwing in canned chips Pringles and Lay's Stax to see how their classic variety matches up.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let u...

Which Chai Tea is best?  As the temperatures drop outside the desire to consume hot drinks goes, this is simple science.  To help nudge John and Nick into a tea drinking habit we are trying out Chai Tea this week, specifically black tea (not chai tea lattes).  There are three brands that will be competing this week, Stash, Tazo and Twinings.  Then to add an additional wrinkle Twinings Ultra Spice was included as well.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

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Which Lime Carbonated Water is best?  In the past, this very podcast has already covered Lime carbonated water, and the unanimous winner was La Croix.  Given how many options are out there we are going to do another test, but this time with 3 new contenders.  The new contenders are Liquid Death, Spindrift (with real lime juice), and Topo Chico.  Then there is a twist that La Croix returns but this time with its Key Lime flavor. Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com...

Which Spiced Rum is best?  This podcast has covered a very wide variety of alcohol over its life, from light beer to Italian Vermouth.  The most notable gap is something John nor Nick have shown any interest in doing until now.  This week we finally figure out which Spiced Rum is the best.  And just for good measure we through a Gold rum in the mix to see how it compares.  The contenders are Admiral Nelson, Bacardi Gold, Captain Morgan, and Sailor Jerry.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastet...

Which Grape Soda is best?  This week we finally get a "rematch" of the orange soda episode as we bring back Crush, Fanta, and Sunkist.  This time we are trying their grape offerings, but we also throw in a fourth option which we both enjoyed as children, Welch's.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which soda corresponds to which numbered glass it was in: 1. Sunkist 2. Fanta 3. Welch's 4. Crush

Which Oktoberfest beer is best?  It's once again the most wonderful time of the year - fall.  There is no better way to ring in the autumn season than by enjoying an Oktoberfest.  We kept the format from last year by bringing 2 official Oktoberfest beers (Hofbrau & Spaten) and 2 American "Oktoberfest" beers (Founders & Sierra Nevada).  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which beer corresponds to which numbered glass it was in: 1. H...

Which Chocolate Chip cookie is best?  A homemade baked good is almost always better than a prepackaged option.  Given this fact, we are going to put the grocery store version of homemade to the test.  Each of Aldi, Target, and Walmart have their own bakeries and this week we are testing out their Chocolate Chip Cookies.  As an additional test we are also throwing in Pepperidge Farm's version (the Montauk) into the fray to see how they compare.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nicka...

Which Instant Coffee is best?  This week we start off by taste testing Arizona's new hard tea variety back.  Later on we get to the main event of trying out 3 instant coffees.  We both drink a fair amount of coffee, but neither Nick or John have gotten into the instant variety.  The contenders for this week are Folgers, Nescafe (Taster's Choice), and Starbucks (Pike Place Roast).  The first two options are very affordable while Starbucks is 6x the price, so can they run away with the competition or will it be closer to the others?  Please like and subscribe and if...

Which Rainbow ring cereal is best?  This week we finally get to a category that America is known for, sugary breakfast cereals for children.  For our first trip through the category we decided to try out a classic in Froot loops and put them up against a couple of their competitors.  First is the health cereal Magic Spoon which is better for you, but for triple the price it better taste good. We also have Malt-O-Meal who goes more for the bulk option, but could struggle to compete on things like texture and taste.  Please like and subscribe and if y...

Which Moscow Mule is best?  We start this episode by trying two different candy bars who have offered up a new cookie dough flavor (Milky Way and Twix).  Later we get to the main attraction of trying out some premade Moscow mules in a can.  When we tried ginger ales we were a little let down with the lack of ginger flavor, so can the Moscow mules provide the ginger punch we need?  This week's contenders are Copper Can, Cutwater, and Mule. Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or e...

Which Light Beer is best?  In the past we have done the most popular domestic light beers, but what about the penny pinchers?  This week we bring in some of the options more popular in college dormitories around the country, those contenders are Busch Light, Keystone, and Natural Light.  Then as a final test to see if these options are truly a step below we brough back (one of) our winner(s) from last round in Miller Lite. Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nic...

Which Apple is best?  This week we start by taste testing a premixed Manhattan cocktail made by On the Rocks.  Later we try our first fruit brought by our special guest Joe.  He brought the 5 best selling apples in the US to see which apple deserves the best apple title. The contenders are Fuji, Gala, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith and Red Delicious.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which apple co...

Which Ginger Ale is best?  This week we are finally getting to ginger ales.  We've all seen the main players in this category, but our experience says they are a little weak on the ginger flavor.  Instead we are trying out some of the pricier players in the game in hopes of getting more of that ginger.  The contenders are Fever Tree, Q, Reed's and Zevia.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of...

Which Soju is best?  This week we are having a Korean extravaganza.  We start by taste testing some of the most popular Sojus, and test out some of Korea's popular snacks along the way.  These Soju brands are known for their flavored varieties but we decided to try out the original flavor first.  The contenders are Charm, Good day and Jinro.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which Soju correspon...

This week we start out by trying Pringles new Habaneras chips, with habanero and lime flavor.  Later we bring in the popular Japanese snack Pocky and pit them up against 2 of their competitors (Fran and Pepero).  With everything on the line can Pocky justify their place in the snack aisle?  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which biscuit corresponds to which numbered bag it was in: 1. Pocky 2. Fran 3. Pepero

What Irish Whiskey is the best? This week we start out by trying a strange mixed drink called the Irish Cactus which combines Bailey's and Tequila.  Then sticking with the theme we try out the three most popular Irish Whiskey's in the universe (my source only contained Earth information but I feel it's fair to extrapolate).  The contenders are Jameson, Proper 12, and Tullamore Dew.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of whic...

What Italian Vermouth is the best? This week we have another mystery box containing a wine that we are not very familiar with.  This time the mystery wine, that apparently has wormwood, is Italian Vermouth.  We cover a wide array with one Bianco (Chazalettes), one dry (Trincheri) and one extra dry (Triozzi) and later guess the price order.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which vermouth corresponds to which numbere...

What meat stick is the best? This week we revisit the meat stick category, but this time we try the more expensive options.  Each of these products boasts about being some combination of natural, non-GMO, no added sugar etc.  Today we will see if these labels actually change the flavor.  More importantly we learn if the flavor is worth the increase in price.  The contestants are Chef's Cut, Chomps, First Phorm, and New Primal.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

  Duration: 01:01:14

What Toffee candy is the best? This week we will try out my nomination for the best chocolate candy bar on the market.  The chocolate covered toffee candy bar feels less exciting than your Snickers and Milky Ways of the world.  But what they lack in pizzazz, they make up for in flavor and texture.  The contestants are Heath, Russell Stover's, and Skor.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which ca...

What Rosé is the best? We have wetted our proverbial beaks in most parts of the wine world, but this week we get to Rosé for the first time.  More specifically we are trying Rosés from France.  Join us as we ask all the important questions about Rosé, although if you are one of those people who want those questions answered, you may need to look elsewhere. The contestants are Cote des Roses, Miraval, and Whispering Angel.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickand...

What Bloody Mary Mix is the best? This week we have an unintentional brunch-centric episode.  We start off by trying out Sunny D's new Vodka Seltzer, and later on try some Bloody Mary Mixes.  Three of our contenders come in cans, Mr and Mrs T, Q, and Zing Zang.  We also throw in Clamato juice with Creole seasoning to see how a Bloody Caesar Compares.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of...

What Mocha Iced Coffee is the best? This week we start off by trying out Busch Light's new Peach flavor and later try some bottled Iced Coffees and 1 frappuccino.  This weeks contenders are Dunkin Donuts, International Delight, Starbucks, and Wide Awake.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which coffee corresponds to which numbered cup it was in: 1. Dunkin 2. International Delight 3. Starbucks 4. Wide Awake

What Caramel is the best? This week we start off by trying out Doritos new Hot Mustard flavor and later try some Caramel candies.  This weeks contenders are Brachs, Kraft, and Werthers.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which candy corresponds to which numbered cup it was in: 1. Brachs 2. Kraft 3. Werthers

What White Port Wine is the best?  This week we have a mystery box that introduces us to a completely new category of wine, the White Port.  Listen as we embarrass ourselves by speculating what types of alcohol we may be drinking! This weeks contenders are Niepoort, Quinta de la Rosa, and Sandeman.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which port corresponds to which numbered glass it was in: 1. Niepoor...

What Root Beer is best?  This week we have two different rounds of intense Root Beer competition.  In our first round we put two of the big dogs up against each other, A&W vs Mug.  Then the first round winner moves on to face off against 3 other Root Beer brands, Dad's, Sprecher, and Virgil's.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which root beer corresponds to which numbered glass it was i...

What Hot Salsa is best?  This week we are doing a second round of Hot Salsas.  Our first round the salsas weren't quite hot enough (with Pace edging it out), so this time around we are ramping up the intensity.  The contestants are Arriba, Mateo's , and Mrs. Renfro's.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which salsa corresponds to which numbered bowl it was in:  1. Mateo's 2. Mrs. Renfro's 3. Arriba

What Caramel popcorn is best?  This week we are finishing the popcorn trifecta by trying some caramel popcorns, with the added element of nuts.  The contestants Cracker Jack, Crunch n Munch, and Poppycock.   Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which popcorn corresponds to which numbered bowl it was in:  1. Poppy Cock 2. Crunch n Munch 3. Cracker Jack

What Spiked Arnold Palmer is best?  As it turns out Arizona has a copyright on the name Arnold Palmer, so with that in mind, this week we are trying out spiked half and half which is 50% Lemonade and 50% unsweetened iced tea.  This weeks contestants are Arizona, Lipton, Twisted Tea, and a homemade version (made with Simply Lemonade, Pure Leaf Tea, and Stoli Vodka).   Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which cu...

What Creme Filled Chocolate Cupcake is best?  It is long overdue, but this week we finally pit Hostess up against their arch nemesis Little Debbie.  We do so by trying out the individually wrapped chocolate cupcakes with white squiggly icing on the top.  Only problem is that Entenman's came along as well and is looking to make their rivalry look irrelevant.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which cupcake correspo...

What Energy Drink is best?  This week we start with a slightly beefy segment of taste testing White Claw's new Vodka Seltzers.  Later we get to the main event of Original Energy Drinks.  Nowadays there are hundreds of (better) options and flavors but today we will find out which of the originators is best.  The contenders are Full Throttle, Monster, Red Bull, and Rockstar. Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which...

Which Nigori sake is best?  This week we bring back sake for a second time, but this time we are trying the 4 Nigori sakes (Nigori literally means "Cloudy Sake"). The contenders are Sayuri, Manotsuru, (we referred to as Kura, and means "Demon Slayer" which is pretty cool) Rihaku, and Tozai, .  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

Which Earl Grey Tea is best?  This week we have ourselves a cute little tea party and try out some earl grey teas.  The companies attending might not be the most drank teas over in England but they are the most accessible here in the state.  The contenders are Bigelow, Harney & Sons, and Tazo.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which tea corresponds to which numbered cup it was in:  1. Harney & Sons 2...

Which Electrolyte Powder is best?  This week try out the emerging market of Electrolyte Powder by trying out some berry electrolyte powders.  The contenders are Biosteel (Mixed Berry), Liquid IV (Acai Berry), Nuun (Tri Berry) and Pedialyte (Berry Frost).  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which powder corresponds to which numbered plate it was on:  1. Nuun 2. BioSteel 3. Liquid IV 4. Pedialyte

Which Peanut butter egg is best?  This week we have a mystery box that turns into a bit of an Easter extravaganza.  First for the main attraction we try some peanut butter eggs, something we didn't even know had three options.  The contenders are Dove, Reese's, and Russell Stover.  Later on we try out a variety of other Easter candies including some chocolate eggs and odd Peep flavors. Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list...

Which Italian Sub is best?  This week we try our first fast food item!  For years people have debated over which burger is best, which fries are best, but now we start the debate of which sub sandwich joint is best.  The contenders and their sandwich representing them are:  Jersey Mike's #13 The Original Italian, Jimmy John's #9 Italian Nightclub, and Subways Italian BMT. Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which sub corresponds to whic...

Which Monster Seltzer flavor is best?  This week we bring you a bit of a twofer.  First we do a 1v1 to see if Pepsico improved their lemon lime soda option with a showdown between Starry and Sierra Mist.  Then we do something a little different and test the flavors of the new Beast Unleashed Monster Seltzer Variety Pack.  The 4 flavors are Mean Green, White Haze, Peach Perfect, and Scary Berries. Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILE...

Which Cabernet Sauvignon is best?  This week we continue our plunge into the world of red wine with 3 Cabernet Sauvignons from around the world.  The Cabernet Sauvignon's in today's tasting are Pascual Toso Alta 2020 from Argentina, Errazuriz Max Reserva 2019 from Chile, and Max's Penfolds 2019 from South Australia. Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which wine corresponds to which numbered glass it was in:  1. Penfolds 2. Pascual Toso 3. Errazuriz

Which Varietal of Red Wine is best?  This week we bring Joe back on the podcast to help us enter the expansive world of wine.  To help Nick and John figure out which Variety of wine we prefer, we are going to try 1 offering each of 3 types of North American Red Wine: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir.  To be way more specific we are tasting: Benton Lane Pinot Noir vintage 2021, Canoe Ridge the Expedition Merlot vintage 2019, and Oberon Cabernet Sauvignon vintage 2022. Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or...

Which Pepperoni is best?  This week we try something new by letting John cook pizzas for us.  On his creations are 3 different types of pepperonis for us to try, including Armour, Ciao (Trader Joe's), and Hormel.  Later on we do a quick taste of La Quercia just to see how a higher end product compares.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which pepperoni corresponds to which numbered plate it was in:  1. Armour 2...

Which Porter is best?  This week we start out by seeing if Poptarts are better coming out of the freezer.  And later we try out a beer that feels at home in the winter, the Porter.  Joining the competition are 3 beers found almost anywhere in the USA: Bell's Brewery Porter, Breckenridge Vanilla Porter, and Deschutes Black Butte Porter.  Joining them is local(ish) favorite of Nick & Johns in Tallgrass Zombie Monkie.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER...

Which Ramune is best?  This week we try Japan's most popular soda, Ramune.  What started as a Lemonade inspired soda somehow turned into bubblegum flavor.   The competitors are hard to identify since the bottles are mostly in Japanese, but we believe they are Asian Food Grocery (AFG), Hatakosen, Honey Bee, Sangaria.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which Soda corresponds to which numbered glass it was in:  1. Sangaria 2. AFG 3. Honey Bee 4. Hatakosen

Which Spice Cherry Soda is best?  This week we have an unfortunate first when we have to re-record our intro, but we bounce back (spectacularly) and try out some Spice Cherry Sodas -- Weird name, but according to research, that is how Dr Pepper and Mr Pibb classify themselves.  Since this market is mostly a two horse race, the wildcard addition is Dr Zevia.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which Soda c...

Which Pickle is best?  This week's we start by testing to see if we can tell the difference between M&M colors (spoiler we're great at it), then we test out three pickle brands, Klaussen, Mt Olive, and Vlasic.  Klaussen claims that never heating is better, Vlasic says they are crunchier, and Mt Olive is happy to be invited.  Let's see if these claims have any validity.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of...

Which Non-Alcoholic Beer is best?  This week we test out a style of beer you can drink on a road trip, at Church, and even in a job interview.  Of course I'm talking about Non Alcoholic Beers!  The contenders are Budweiser Zero, Coors Edge, and O'Douls.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which beer corresponding to which numbered glass it was in:  1. O'Douls  2. Coors 3. Budweiser

Which Grapefruit Soda is best?  This week we finally get to one of our white whales, while exploring an apparent Mexican favorite (considering 3 of our options are Mexican): Grapefruit Soda.  This week's contenders are Barrilitos, Jarritos, Mexican Fresca, and Squirt.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which soda corresponding to which numbered glass it was in:  1. Mexican Fresca  2. Barrilitos 3. Squirt 4. Jarritos

Which eggnog is best?  This week we celebrate the holiday season with one of its grossest traditions, eggnog!  We mix it with E & J brandy to make the experience a little more authentic.  Warning to all listeners, during the podcast we wonder if eggnog tastes good with coffee, but the verdict is no.  It is pretty gross and not worth the try.  This week's contenders are Kemp's, Shatto, and Southern Comfort.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER...

Which Sour Gummy Worm is best?  This week has Halloween vibes all over it as we start off by trying a bag of Sriracha Doritos, which was their Halloween limited flavor.  Later we get into trying one of Nick's all time favorite things in Sour Gummy Worms. The contender are Candy Shoppe, Haribo, Toxic Waste, and Trolli.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which gummy worm corresponding to which numbered bowl it was...

Which Johnnie Walker Scotch is best?  This week we do something a little different and do a taste test of Johnnie Walker's most popular scotches to see which is worth the price tag.  Then Contenders are Black Label, Gold Label, 18 Years, and the notorious Blue Label which sells for around $200 a bottle.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which scotch corresponding to which numbered glass it was in:  1. 18 Years  2. Black Label 3. Gold Lab...

Which beef jerky is best?  This week we get a mystery box containing 3 mystery beef jerkies.  We take a wrong turn and wind up trying to figure out if the jerkies are real meat or not (spoiler they are real), and later we try a classic Thanksgiving Jones Soda.  This week's contenders are Country Archer, Jack Link's, and Old Trapper.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which jerky corresponding to which numbere...

Which pretzel twist is best?  This week we try out a new craze in the snack world, and the best thing to come out of the Dakota's since Tom Brokaw, Seasoned Pretzel Twists! This week's contenders are Dots, Pretzel Kravings, and Snyder's.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which pretzel corresponding to which numbered bowl it was in:   1. Pretzel Kravings  2. Dots  3. Snyder's

Which cola is best?  This week we start out by trying some pumpkin beers before we get into the serious matter of which cola is best.  Think there are only two options?  Wrong!  This week we've got FOUR colas: Coke, Pepsi, RC, and Thumbs Up.  Please like and subscribe and if you have any suggestions, let us know by tweeting us @tastetestdummies or email us at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com. 

SPOILER!  Below is a list of which cola corresponding to which numbered glass:     1. RC  2. Coke  3. Thumbs Up  4. Pepsi

Which Guacamole is best? This week we start out by cracking the code of another mystery flavor.  Then for the main attraction we try out some premade guacamoles.  Listen as we pick our favorites and determine if it might just be better to make your own. The Contenders are Cabo Fresh, Herdez , and Wholly Guacamole. Please like and subscribe, and if you have any suggestions tweet us at @tastetestdummies or email at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com.

SPOILER! Below is a list of which guacamole corresponds to which numbered cup it was in. This...

Which Strawberry toaster pastry is best? This week we try out a classic breakfast/snack item in the toaster pastry.  For flavor we went with the iced strawberry.  Although it may not be our favorite, it is the most iconic. The Contenders are Poptarts, Toast'ems, and Walmart. Please like and subscribe, and if you have any suggestions tweet us at @tastetestdummies or email at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com.

SPOILER! Below is a list of which toaster pastry corresponds to which numbered plate it was on. This information will be at the end of th...

Which Tonic water is best? The theme of this NICE episode is mixing.  We start the episode by mixing two unexpected products, and finish by testing half of the classic Gin and Tonic. The Contenders are Canada Dry, Fever Tree, and Schweppes. Please like and subscribe, and if you have any suggestions tweet us at @tastetestdummies or email at nickandjohnpodcast@gmail.com.

SPOILER! Below is a list of which Tonic Water corresponds to which numbered glass it was in. This information will be at the end of the podcast as well. 1. Feve...