PURCHASE, N.Y. -- After unveiling it to the convenience-store industry during the NACS Show in October, PepsiCo rolled out its real-sugar soda 1893 this week.
The product brings together "premium ingredients and more than 100 years of cola-making expertise to present a great-tasting, unexpectedly bold cola blend of the past and present," the company said. The product was sold in a limited fountain test last summer. The name—1893—refers to the date of the original recipes created in 1893 by Pepsi founder Caleb Bradham.
1893, a blend of premium kola nut extract, real sugar and sparkling water, is available now in two flavors: Original and Ginger Cola, for a "unique and unexpected cola experience." PepsiCo's marketing suggests while the cola can be enjoyed as a stand-alone beverage, "it is also the perfect complement for cocktails."
"We were energized by the food revolution and inspired by consumer interest in bold and interesting taste combinations," said Chad Stubbs, vice president of marketing, Pepsi Trademark. "We were also motivated by our past, so we created these unique 1893 taste experiences to honor the passion of our founder, Caleb Bradham."
1893 will debut a national TV spot (see below) in April in both English and Spanish, featuring a soda sommelier played by actor Jeff Galfer.
Packaged in slimline 12-ounce cans, 1893 is sold in stores where Pepsi products are available for a suggested retail price of $1.79.
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