Pop quiz time: what’s the state drink of Kentucky? If you immediately responded “Bourbon!” — well, you’re not alone! Kentucky is world-renowned for its bourbon, and it’s only natural to think that this ubiquitous spirit would also be the official state drink of the Bluegrass. But it’s not. In fact, the official state drink of Kentucky is Ale-8-One, a soft drink invented right here in the Bluegrass!During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.Ale-8-One soft drink has been bottled in Winchester, Kentucky, since 1926. This iconoclastic soda is the only soft drink invented in Kentucky still in existence.
There’s a good reason for that… and that’s because it’s absolutely delightful. It’s gingery, citrusy, carbonated, refreshing deliciousness.
It’s true! And official. Governor Paul E. Patton, the 59th governor of Kentucky, proclaimed July 13, 2001, as “Ale-8-1 Day.” And in 2013, Governor Steve Beshear signed House Bill No. 205, officially making Ale-8-One the “original soft drink” of Kentucky.
Wondering how this legendary soda came to be? Let’s take a little trip down memory lane.
The story begins at the turn of the 20th century. Founder and inventor G. L. Wainscott began bottling soda water and several varieties of flavored drinks in a plant on North Main Street in Winchester, Kentucky. In 1906, he introduced Roxa-Kola, a combination of his wife’s name and popular “cola” suffix. After an ensuing court battle over the production of Roxa-Kola, Wainscott began his quest for a single unique flavor for his budding soft drink business.
He decided to go with a ginger-infused drink. Experimenting with ginger recipes acquired during his travels in Northern Europe, Wainscott eventually developed the Ale-8-One formula. The product was launched on July 13, 1926.
Since then, the secret family recipe has been passed down from generation to generation and is now in the hands of Wainscott’s great-great-nephew, Fielding Rogers.
Kentucky is a place that’s so proud of its history and traditions. And Ale-8-One is a bonafide part of the Bluegrass.
Of course, for those who thought bourbon was the official Kentucky state drink, you’re not wrong. In fact, you can create your very own epic Kentucky cocktail of Ale-8 and bourbon.
The Ale-8-One Company Store is located in the main office building at 25 Carol Road, Winchester, KY, 40391. The store features specialty items and memorabilia and is open to the public during the week. Visit the Ale-8-One website to learn more.
This is an iconic part of Kentucky history you must embrace and experience!
So now you know: Kentucky has an official state drink, and it’s Ale-8-One, of course! Have you had this Kentucky-made soft drink before? If not, give it a try! It might just become your new favorite.Address: Ale-8-One Bottling Co, 25 Carol Rd, Winchester, KY 40391, USA