Dr Pepper’s Sister Brand Just Released a Throwback Soda From the 1800s

There are so many ways to enjoy soda these days, from dirty soda to fluffy Coke. But an ice cream float will always be the best upgrade for a refreshing, carbonated beverage. And if you’re from Michigan, you’re probably familiar with an iconic float: the Boston Cooler.

A riff on a root beer float, the Boston Cooler contains a blend of vanilla ice cream and ginger ale. It’s a creamy, fizzy drink that has just enough of the refreshing bite from the ginger soda without being overpowering. 

The drink’s history is hazy, but many believe it originated in Detroit in the 1800s, with the rise of soda fountains and ice cream parlors. It’s remained popular ever since, and now, Boston Cooler fans can get that nostalgic taste in a can or a bottle thanks to a soda brand so beloved that even McDonald’s offers it at select fountains.

Vernors Releases New Boston Cooler Soda

Keurig Dr Pepper brand Vernors is leaning into its Michigan roots this summer by releasing a limited-edition Vernors Boston Cooler soda.

Featuring a zesty punch of Vernors’ signature ginger ale combined with creamy vanilla flavor, the new soda encapsulates the regional favorite in just one sip. Enjoy the bubbly drink over ice or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream to double down on the Boston Cooler vibes.

In a press release announcing the new soda flavor, Keurig Dr Pepper reported that around 44 percent of Americans try new beverages every month. And with a seemingly endless list of creative soda flavors popping up, it makes sense that the beverage company hopped on the trend. 

Boston Cooler fans have been quick to express their enthusiasm for the limited release. On a recent Reddit thread discussing the news, one Redditor exclaimed, “Make it permanent, Vernors!”

Sold in 12-packs, 2-liter bottles, and 20-ounce bottles, Vernors Boston Cooler will be available through September, so you’ll want to act fast. But there’s a catch: The soda will only be sold in Michigan, as well as the Toledo area in Northern Ohio.

But if you happen to fall outside of that retail area, don’t worry. Original Vernors is sold nationwide, so you can always whip up a true Boston Cooler float at home.