Pep and its single-origin peppercorns are at it again, this time shaking up a category of a different kind with fellow disruptors Mischief Brew. It’s called The Doc, and in each can is a clever concoction of Pep’s pepper and Mischief’s soda smarts – plus an all-star line-up of spices and seasonings that include but aren’t limited to ginger, cinnamon, lemon, liquorice root, nutmeg and cherry.
Here’s Pep co-founder Josh Gardiner on how they’re propelling the humble seasoning off the spice shelf and into the hands of soda-lovers across the country.
One could assume the name is a tip of the hat to a certain soft-drink brand. Does it taste similar to that?
Pepper sodas have existed for over 100 years, which includes the most famous one you know. They’re known for their complex and unique flavour profiles, often described as a blend of fruit and spice flavours. We like to think of The Doc as its own evolution; a fresher, zingier, more complex take.
Give us the elevator pitch, what makes The Doc special?
The Doc is a soda that takes something familiar and brings it someplace new. It’s not just about nostalgia or standing out in the fridge – we wanted a drink with a purpose, one that introduces pepper naturally, but in an interesting and elevated way.
How did the magic between Pep and Mischief come about?
Pep had been a fan of Mischief Brew long before launch, admiring their past collaborations with Saison Aperitifs and Mat’s Hot Shop. Talks began late last year and quickly turned to recipes. After some experimentation, we landed on The Doc, with Mischief Brew setting this spring launch timeline and making the magic happen.
Explain like we’re five: how do you make it?
The Doc delivers big on citrus, spice and that familiar cherry hit. The 250ml can proudly lists all of its ingredients, including Pep black pepper, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, coriander seed, lemon, orange, cherry, blackberry, gentian, liquorice root, Turkish rhubarb, burnt sugar, and a touch of salt. All the flavours are natural, with extracts made in-house from real ingredients – something that really sets Mischief Brew apart. The Doc has noticeably less sugar than commercial sodas.
What excites you about this project?
Any good collaboration comes from a place of shared values and visions – and we’re really happy to be doing this with Scott and Dan at Mischief. They’ve been awesome from the start and it’s all been done with a laugh and a smile. We really appreciate the attention to detail in the way they created the recipe and have brewed The Doc – they’re real ones. And shout out to Tom and Naomi at OMG for their note-perfect design work. From the Pep POV, we’re all about stretching the bounds of where our peppercorns play and making everyday eating and drinking better – we’re happy to add the B to F&B in that mission.
What are the perfect conditions to enjoy The Doc?
Any occasion, morning, noon, or night. Rain, hail, or shine. Inside or out. The Doc is fresh and vibrant for spring and summer, sophisticated and moody enough for autumn and winter. Pair it with fish and chips or Chinese takeaway, at the bar as an alcoholic alternative or mixed into something special. We’re sure it’d work nicely on Chicken Shop Date or Hot Ones, too. We might encourage listening to Tom Waits, Spindrift, Chrissy Amphlett, or OutKast when cracking Docs.
Is this here for a good time or a long time?
The Doc is in for the long haul, or at least as long as the good people of Australia want it. It’s likely to give the globe a crack, too.
Where can I buy it?
The Doc is available for purchase online through both Mischief Brew and Pep online shops — and is hitting the shelves of retail stockists across Victoria and beyond as we speak. If you’d like to know exactly where, please ask.
Order The Doc online at eatpep.com today; follow along for more at @eat_pep