Vernors Celebrates 150th Anniversary In Detroit Style

Vernors, the carbonated ginger ale from Detroit, Michigan, is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year.

Originally started by James Vernon in a Detroit pharmacy just before the Civil War, the soda pop made its way onto store shelves by 1866.

Vernors has seen its fair share of management change throughout the years, but its taste remains the same. Dr Pepper Snapple Group Inc.DPS, the current owner, operates out of Plato, Texas. The company also owns A&W Root Beer, 7UP, and Sunkist.

Related Link: One Of Detroit's Most Reviled And Respected Journalists Needs Help

Barrel Aged, Bold Taste

Vernors stands out as a particular favorite to those not only looking for a stomach-soothing fix, but also those who like to add it to recipes. Its healing prowess is what makes it stand apart from PepsiCo, Inc. PEP, The Coca-Cola Co KO, etc.

In celebration of the beloved Detroit beverage's anniversary, there will be a week of cool events leading up to a ginger-beer bar crawl in downtown Detroit. Stops will include: Batch Brewing Co., The Block, Broderick Grille, Chartreuse, Mudgie’s, and more.

In spirit of the festivities, several bars around the city are making dishes and cocktails featuring Vernors, each using the ingredient in a unique way.

One place to check out is: Chartreuse Kitchen and Cocktails. Chef Doug Hewitt is touting a Vernors glazed port-belly, with pickled summer peppers and savory pancakes.

Image credit: Emily Elconin