Made in North Carolina, and over 100 years old, Cheerwine is legendary.

This cherry-flavored soda isSouthern at its roots, created in 1917 and still operated by a family-owned company.

Here, find the Cheerwine history and facts about the beloved Southern soda.

Cheerwine Bottles

Credit: Ralph Anderson

Cheerwine Has A Sweet History

In 1917, general store owner L.D.

Peeler had a dream of making a new soft drink.

That meant Peeler had to devise a drink that tasted good but had less sugar.

In today’s world, where consumer choice reigns supreme, many cherry-flavored sodas can be had.

It’s Always Been Family Owned

L.D.

It’s been in family hands ever since.

Today, the only variations on Cheerwine include a sugar-free version and a holiday punch.

The commitment to the original drink keeps the company’s offerings true to the original appeal of Cheerwine.

Presidents Love Cheerwine

Cheerwine has a few fans in the White House.

In 1992, President George H.W.

Bush Sr. attended a 4th of July celebration in Salisbury and enjoyed a Cheerwine too.

According to a museum press release, Cheerwine has partnered with Cackalacky to create theperfect barbecue sauces.

In 2015, they made it official when the National Barbecue Association named Cheerwine as its official soft drink.

Want to join?Sign upand check out theFacebook group.

A little of this sweetness goes a long way!

Get A Caffeine Fix

It’s not just the flavor that will perk you up.

Both Cheerwine and Cheerwine Zero Sugar have 3.94 mg of caffeine per ounce of soda.

Thats more than some popular sodas, but not as much as your morning cup of coffee.

Cheerwine Facebook.The Southern Handshake is now official.

Stay tuned for more Cheerwine & BBQ news!