cola

gets its name from the kola nut, which gives cola beverages their distinct flavor. Historically, the interest in this nut, native to Africa, was due to its caffeine content. The nuts were consumed whole or ground into a powder, to provide an energy boost. In the 1800s, American pharmacies began using the kola nut to produce stimulating tonics that became common at the soda fountain.

In 1885, John Stith Pemberton of Atlanta, Georgia (1831–1888), created a soda syrup that contained kola nut and coca leaf extract that he named Coca-Cola. Within a few decades, Coca-Cola became one of the most popular beverages in the world, and other companies, like Pepsi, followed that success with similar products.The Cuba Libre (rum, cola, lime) is the best example of cola in a mixed drink, though colas work well with most distilled spirits such as whisky (cola and bourbon or Tennessee whisky is enormously popular), tequila (yielding the Batanga), and (of course) vodka. See Batanga, Cuba Libre. Part of the appeal is that cola is sweet and can be used to cover up harsh spirit flavors or mask the flavor of alcohol for people who do not appreciate it. It is also a versatile mixer due to its complex flavor and has been used to create unique combinations such as Calimotxo (equal parts red wine and cola). In the Long Island Ice Tea, cola’s main purpose is to add a splash of color and a touch of sweetness.

See also Calimotxo, Long Island Iced Tea.

King, Monroe M. “John Stith Pemberton (1831-1888).” New Georgia Encyclopedia, June 13 2017. http://www.georgiaencyclopedia.org/articles/business-economy/john-stith-pemberton-1831-1888 (accessed February 26, 2021).

By: Darcy O’Neil