Cheerwine Cherry Soft Drink Soda North Carolina

Cheerwine is one of the most famous soft drinks and a true North Carolina original.

How It Started

In 1917, a general store owner named L. D. Peeler created Cheerwine in Salisbury during a sugar shortage caused by World War I. Peeler had previously sold a soft drink called Mint Cola, but when that business failed, he began experimenting with new flavors. A flavor salesman from St. Louis introduced him to a wild cherry flavoring, which became the foundation of Cheerwin

Where the Name Came From

Despite the name, Cheerwine contains no wine. The name was inspired by:

• The drink’s deep burgundy-red color, which resembled wine.
• Its cheerful, bubbly taste.

Why It Became Popular

Cheerwine’s unique cherry flavor stood out from other sodas of the era and quickly became a favorite across North Carolina. The drink has remained family-owned since its founding and is often described as one of the South’s iconic regional beverages