GT's Kombucha and Synergy, lightly effervescent, slightly vinegary drinks, qualify as acquired tastes. But if their growth in the natural foods world is any indication (launched in 100 stores in 2006, now available in more than 500), plenty of people are happy to acquire them.
First, a kombucha primer. Kombucha is a fermented, sweetened tea that is alive, meaning it contains active cultures similar to those found in yogurt.
Several brands of kombucha drinks are available, but GT's Kombucha and Synergy (the former is pure kombucha, the latter is blended with fruit juices) made by Millennium Products Inc. are among the tastiest.
Millennium Products offers four varieties of organic raw kombucha and nine Synergy kombucha and fruit juice blends.
First-timers should start with Synergy Trilogy, a blend of kombucha and raspberry, lemon and ginger juices, or Synergy Divine Grape, which tastes like the grape soda of your dreams.
GT's Kombucha and Synergy drinks are available in 16-ounce bottles at natural foods stores and some grocers for $3.49.