Americas Oldest Soft Drink Revealed

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Dr Pepper, often referred to as the oldest soft drink in the United States, has been a beloved beverage for over 135 years. However, there's another soft drink that predates Dr Pepper by nearly 20 years, and that's Vernors Ginger Ale. Vernors has been a staple in American soft drink culture since 1866, making it the oldest surviving soft drink brand in the United States.

Vernors was created by James Vernor, a Canadian-born pharmacist who settled in Detroit, Michigan. The original recipe for Vernors was developed in 1866, and it quickly gained popularity in the Midwest. The drink's unique flavor profile, which combines the spicy warmth of ginger with a hint of vanilla, made it a staple in many American households.

Early History of Vernors

Vernors was initially sold at soda fountains and pharmacies, where it was dispensed from large, ornate barrels. The drink quickly gained a loyal following, and by the early 20th century, Vernors was being bottled and distributed throughout the Midwest.

One of the key factors that contributed to Vernors' success was its unique flavor profile. The drink's spicy warmth was said to have medicinal properties, and it was often prescribed by doctors to aid in digestion. This perceived health benefit helped to establish Vernors as a trusted brand, and it remains popular to this day.

The Vernors Factory

In 1896, James Vernor built a factory in Detroit to mass-produce his ginger ale. The factory, which was located on Woodward Avenue, became a beloved landmark in the city. The building featured a large, ornate sign that read "Vernors" in bold letters, and it was a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

The Vernors factory remained in operation until 1967, when it was sold to the American Consumer Products Company. Today, Vernors is owned by the Dr Pepper Snapple Group, and it is still widely available in stores and online.

Modern-Day Vernors

Despite being over 150 years old, Vernors remains a beloved brand in the United States. The company has adapted to changing consumer preferences over the years, introducing new flavors and products to its lineup.

Some popular Vernors flavors include:

• Vernors Ginger Ale: The original recipe that has been a staple for over 150 years.
• Diet Vernors: A sugar-free and calorie-free version of the classic ginger ale.
• Vernors Zero Calorie: A zero-calorie version of the classic ginger ale, sweetened with natural ingredients.
• Vernors Cherry: A cherry-flavored version of the classic ginger ale.

Fun Facts About Vernors

Here are some fun facts about Vernors:

• Vernors was the first soft drink to be bottled in the United States.
• The original Vernors recipe was developed in 1866, but it wasn't until 1881 that the drink was first bottled and sold.
• Vernors was a popular drink during Prohibition, as it was seen as a safe alternative to liquor.
• The Vernors factory on Woodward Avenue was a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and it featured a large, ornate sign that read "Vernors" in bold letters.

Conclusion

Vernors is a beloved brand that has been a staple in American soft drink culture for over 150 years. From its humble beginnings as a small pharmacy in Detroit to its current status as a widely recognized brand, Vernors has come a long way. Whether you're a fan of the classic ginger ale or one of the newer flavors, there's no denying that Vernors is a true American original.