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Judge Wapner Root Beer at Rocket Fizz
By Jonathan Weichsel
Rocket Fizz Soda Pop and Candy Shop is a small family run chain that specializes in vintage candy and hard to find soda pop. They already have stores throughout the Midwest, California, and Las Vegas, and they are opening their first Burbank store at 2112 Magnolia Blvd.
I had the pleasure of driving to visit their Camarillo store for the unveiling of Rocket Fizz's newest brand of soft drink, Judge Wapner root beer. Judge Wapner himself was on hand to greet fans and autograph bottles.
Judge Wapner was America's first television judge. All in all he heard over three thousand cases during his time on the bench at The People's Court. Although he is retired from practicing law, the judge still has a wise, judicial air about him.
It was amazing how many people came to the store to meet the judge. He is still a popular figure with a loyal following, and many people told him how much they still love The People's Court. People even brought their kids to meet Judge Wapner, and although the children were obviously more interested in the soda and candy, they also seemed to be in awe of this stately, reverential figure.
When Judge Wapner had a free moment, I approached the table and shook his hand. He has a very sturdy grip, especially for an eighty-nine year old. He was very friendly, and took the time out to answer a few of my questions.
VS- So, how did you come to get your own root beer?
Judge Wapner- Rob, the owner of Rocket Fizz, and I are cousins. We went to an Angel's game together, and he asked me to do it.
VS- Why root beer?
Judge Wapner- I've always liked root beer, and they make a great root beer. It's got a great taste. It's very traditional.
VS- How long have you lived in LA?
Judge Wapner- I've lived here my entire life except for three years in World War II, where I received the purple heart, a bronze star, and three battle stars.
VS- Are you having a good time?
Judge Wapner- This is a lot of fun. I am amazed that so many people still remember the show. It is good for me that I've had such an influence on people's lives. I have had people tell me that they went to law school because of me. That makes me feel good.
After I spoke with Judge Wapner, I decided to walk around Rocket Fizz, and sampled a few sodas. The candy at Rocket Fizz all has to do with nostalgia. If you haven't seen it in thirty years, they have it. Rocket Fizz even takes requests, so if you remember an old candy that you can't find anywhere, just ask and they will do their best to locate some for you. Their only rule is that they will not carry anything that you can find easily in a supermarket. It is the uniqueness of their candy that makes the place special.
One of the sodas I tried was Bubble Up, a distant ancestor of seven-up and sprite. I found the taste softer and smoother than either of those beverages. Like all of Rocket Fizz's sodas, Bubble Up is made with real sugar, not corn syrup. This makes a real difference in terms of taste, and is healthier for you too.
Of course, I also had to try a bottle of Judge Wapner Root Beer. It has a real smooth taste, with hints of vanilla, liquorish, and nutmeg. Other sodas I tried were Spreecher's Fire Brewed Orange Dream, and The Sopranos Lemoncello Soda.
All of the beverages at Rocket Fizz come in glass bottles featuring nifty designs, because that's how they used to bottle them. Glass is clean, but plastic alters the taste of the soda pop and introduces foreign elements.
So visit Rocket Fizz' Burbank store at 2112 Magnolia Blvd, and try a bottle of Judge Wapner Root Beer.