Did you know that Pepsi, Cheerwine and Sun Drop all have roots in North Carolina? Scroll through the slideshow to learn the fascinating history behind each popular North Carolina drink.

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Cheerwine

North Carolina drinks; Cheerwine
Photo credit: Todd Bennett

Cheerwine has roots in Salisbury, where L.D. Peeler created the beverage in 1917 after a salesman from St. Louis sold him a wild cherry flavor that helped him develop the perfect recipe for his soft drink. The Carolina Beverage Corporation and Cheerwine Bottling Co. still produce the beverage, and Cheerwine has become the country’s oldest family-owned soft drink still in business today.

See more: Cheerwine Goes to the White House

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  • Alicia Markov-Newan

    I do so enjoy this little magazine with big ideas!

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NCField&FamilySummer2026
Flip through the pages of the Summer 2026 edition of North Carolina Field and Family magazine. In this issue, find vineyard adventures at U-pick muscadine grape farms, explore the oasis of Manteo, learn more about on-farm markets, enjoy peak berry season with summer berry recipes, read about riveting research on hemp fiber and so much more.

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