What is vernors?

Vernors: The Deliciously Golden Ginger Ale

Vernors is a flavored ginger ale that holds a special place in the hearts of many, particularly in the Midwestern United States. It's more than just a soft drink; it's a cultural icon, steeped in history and nostalgia.

Key Characteristics:

• Flavor: Vernors boasts a distinct, rich, and notably spicier ginger flavor compared to other ginger ales. Its unique taste has been described as a combination of ginger ale, vanilla, and caramel, with a hint of woodsy notes. This is due to the unique aging process which happens in oak barrels.
• Color: Its signature golden-amber color sets it apart from the typical pale ginger ale.
• Fizz: While generally considered a ginger ale, Vernors tends to have a more robust fizz, adding to its refreshing character.

History and Origins:

The story of Vernors is intertwined with the narrative of its creator, James Vernor, a Detroit pharmacist. Legend has it that Vernor left his ginger ale recipe to age in an oak cask before heading off to fight in the Civil War. Upon his return four years later, he opened the cask and discovered the uniquely flavored beverage that would become Vernors.

While the accuracy of this specific tale is debated, there's no doubt that James Vernor founded the Vernor Ginger Ale Company in 1866 in Detroit, Michigan. The exact formula remains a closely guarded secret, adding to the mystique surrounding the drink.

Regional Significance:

Vernors is particularly popular in Michigan and the surrounding Great Lakes region. It's a staple in many households and often associated with comfort, childhood memories, and local pride. It has become a Michigan%20icon.

Uses:

• Enjoyed as a beverage: It's commonly consumed straight from the can or bottle as a refreshing soft drink.
• Mixer: Some people use Vernors as a mixer in alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
• Remedy: Many swear by Vernors as a home remedy for upset stomachs and nausea. The ginger is thought to have soothing properties.
• "Boston Cooler": It's the key ingredient in a "Boston Cooler," a Detroit-area specialty consisting of Vernors and vanilla ice cream. This is an ice cream float.