Traditional ginger beer is produced by the natural fermentation of prepared ginger spice, yeast and sugar. Alcoholic ginger beer has been gaining popularity as a replacement for traditional beer, as well as for a mixer in other drinks such as vodka or spiced rum. The combination of the sweetness from residual sugars, and spiciness from the ginger make it the ideal refreshing beverage. Brookvale Union Ginger Beer is a great Australian example.