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Cherikee Red
Cherikee Red
Cherikee Red
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Cherikee Red is a brand of cherry-flavored soft drink. Its name is a play on the name of the Cherokee Indian Tribe.

The Cherikee Red brand debuted in 1969 as a product of Cotton Club Bottling and Canning Company in Cleveland, Ohio.[1][2] The product was initially bottled by Cotton Club, the A.J. Canfield Company in Chicago, the Crystal Soda Water Company of Scranton, Pennsylvania, and Will G Keck Corporation's Laurel Springs Beverage division in Kecksburg, Pennsylvania. [citation needed] In the late 1980s and early 1990s, the Cherikee Red brand was distributed by D & M Management, Inc. (Davidsville, PA), an independent beverage distribution firm, in the West Central Pennsylvania, Maryland, Washington, D.C. and the Northern Virginia areas. As of 2010, the brand is owned by the American Bottling Company of Plano, Texas, a subsidiary of Dr Pepper Snapple Group.[3][failed verification]

References

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Cherikee Red

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Cherikee Red is a sweet, cherry-flavored that originated in 1969 with the Cotton Club Bottling and Canning Company in , , and was later produced in , by the now-defunct Crystal Club soda company. Known for its vibrant red color and nostalgic appeal, the soda features a label depicting an American Indian chief and was a popular regional favorite in and parts of during its peak availability. Introduced as part of Crystal Club's lineup alongside flavors like Swiss Creme, Birchola, and 50/50, Cherikee Red gained widespread distribution in local supermarkets, delis, and pizza shops throughout the and early 2000s. Production by Crystal Club halted around 2007 following the closure of their plant in Scranton. In , the brand was revived when an Ohio-based acquired the and label, with distribution handled by /Royal Crown in , resulting in rapid sell-outs and renewed enthusiasm via campaigns. Following the 2013 revival, production ceased around 2022, though it continues to evoke strong regional as of 2025, often compared to similar cherry sodas but distinguished by its unique sweetness and cultural ties to Pennsylvania's beverage history.

History

Origins and Launch

Cherikee Red debuted in 1969 as a cherry-flavored produced by the Cotton Club Bottling and Canning Company in , . It was later bottled by regional companies, including Crystal Club in . The brand's name served as a phonetic play on "," deliberately evoking Native American imagery to tie into the cherry flavor and create a distinctive, culturally themed identity for marketing purposes. This approach was reflected in the product's labeling, which prominently featured an illustration of an American Indian chief, enhancing its visual appeal and setting it apart from mainstream national sodas. The soda launched initially in local Mid-Atlantic stores, including chains like , where it quickly gained traction among consumers in and neighboring . Crystal Club's bottling efforts positioned Cherikee Red as a bold alternative to established brands, emphasizing its vibrant red color derived from cherry essence and its intensely sweet taste profile that appealed to those seeking a more indulgent, non-diet option. Early distribution focused on independent grocers and regional supermarkets, allowing the product to build a loyal following in working-class communities through accessible pricing and familiarity. Marketing strategies in the initial years relied on tactics tailored to the regional market, including eye-catching point-of-sale displays in stores that highlighted the soda's "exotic" Native American-inspired branding to draw attention amid competitive shelf space. Regional , often through local print media and in-store promotions, underscored the drink's unique cherry boldness and sweet refreshment as key differentiators, fostering a sense of local pride and novelty without the backing of national campaigns. These efforts helped establish Cherikee Red as a staple in , where it became synonymous with everyday indulgence for families and social gatherings.

Production Changes and Discontinuation

In the late , the Cherikee Red brand underwent significant ownership changes as part of broader consolidation in the regional beverage industry. Cotton Club Bottling and Canning Company, the original producer based in , , was acquired by in 1998, which facilitated expanded distribution and bottling operations across and . This shift allowed for scaled-up production, with bottling occurring at facilities in and later in , by the Crystal Club company, enabling wider availability in the Northeast. Production milestones during this period included adaptations to modern packaging formats. Initially offered in steel pull-tab cans, Cherikee Red transitioned to and eventually bottles, reflecting industry trends toward cost-effective and recyclable materials while maintaining the product's cherry flavor profile. These changes supported efficiency in manufacturing and distribution but were not accompanied by major formula alterations, preserving the soda's distinctive taste. The original brand's discontinuation occurred around 2003–2007, primarily due to the closure of the Crystal Club plant in Scranton, which had been a key production site. This cessation was influenced by competitive pressures alongside ongoing industry consolidation that favored larger national distributors over independent regional bottlers. Following the acquisition, American Bottling shifted operations, further impacting the brand's viability until brief revival efforts in the 2010s.

Product Description

Flavor Profile and Ingredients

Cherikee Red is a cherry-flavored characterized by its intensely sweet taste and vivid red color. The primary ingredients include , , natural and artificial cherry flavors, , red such as FD&C Red No. 40, and preservatives like . These components contribute to its distinct sensory profile, which features a prominent artificial cherry essence often likened to cough syrup or cherry candy, with a syrupy arising from its elevated levels compared to many competing sodas. Nutritionally, a 12-ounce serving provides approximately 190 calories, primarily from 47 grams of sugars, with no fat, protein, or caffeine content. This higher sugar concentration—exceeding that of similar cherry sodas—enhances the beverage's cloying sweetness and lingering aftertaste, setting it apart from milder alternatives. Visually, Cherikee Red exhibits a bolder, more intense red hue than products like Big Red, which famously stained consumers' tongues and mouths after consumption. In contrast to Big Red's cream soda-like profile with subtle vanilla and citrus notes, Cherikee Red emphasizes a straightforward, bold cherry flavor without caffeine, appealing to those seeking a straightforward, nostalgic sweetness.

Packaging and Variants

Cherikee Red was originally packaged in 12-ounce steel cans equipped with openings, distinguished by a prominent American Indian chief logo on the front. These vintage cans featured a classic red color scheme that emphasized the product's cherry flavor. As the brand evolved, packaging shifted to include bottles, often in designs to highlight the vibrant cherry theme. Common sizes included 20-ounce single-serve bottles, which became popular during regional revivals, and larger 2-liter family-sized options for broader distribution. As of 2025, the soda is produced by and continues to be available in 12-ounce cans (often in 12-packs) and the aforementioned bottle sizes. Throughout its history, Cherikee Red remained focused on its core cherry flavor without major variants such as diet or alternative editions, though it was occasionally sold in 12-packs of cans for convenience. The consistent use of bold red labeling and Native American-inspired graphics across formats reinforced the product's nostalgic identity in and markets.

Regional Popularity and Availability

Distribution in Pennsylvania and Ohio

Cherikee Red achieved widespread availability in , with a strong presence in the Scranton area of and extending to regions like , as well as northern , particularly around , from the 1980s through the 2000s. The soda was distributed through regional supermarket chains such as Gerrity's, Schiel's, and Penn Mart in , and was also stocked in independent delis and pizza shops, where it became a popular choice for pairing with meals like due to its bold cherry flavor. Sales of Cherikee Red peaked in the , reflecting its status as a regional staple in convenience stores and local eateries across these Mid-Atlantic areas, where it was often selected as the preferred cherry soda for everyday consumption. In northern , the brand originated in and maintained a loyal following, evidenced by its role as a sponsor for local sports teams like the Cleveland Indians in the 1970s, which helped solidify its cultural foothold before broader distribution in the following decades.

Current Status and Revivals

Cherikee Red was officially discontinued around 2009 following the closure of its primary bottler, Crystal Club, leading to its rapid rarity in the market. Despite the end of production, the soda occasionally appeared in and clearance aisles until around 2010, as remaining inventory circulated among regional retailers in and . In 2013, the brand was commercially revived by in , which acquired the recipe and label, with distribution handled by /Royal Crown in . The product was sold at local businesses such as Mike Brunetti's pizza shop in Scranton, where dozens of cases sold out within days amid nostalgic demand. These efforts provided brief access for fans but were not sustained long-term. The revived production ended around 2022, with the last bottler ceasing operations amid the . In recent years, including a 2024 petition on , fans have continued to advocate for its return, reflecting ongoing consumer interest. As of November 2025, Cherikee Red remains unavailable from major producers, with limited access through resellers and specialty vendors offering any surviving stock or close approximations. There has been no major corporate relaunch, though the absence of production plans leaves room for potential craft soda recreations by independent makers.

Cultural Impact

Nostalgia and Consumer Sentiment

Cherikee Red has become a potent symbol of for many in and , particularly among those who grew up in the late , evoking memories of regional childhood experiences in the . Local news reports highlight how the soda's reintroduction in 2013 sparked renewed enthusiasm, with consumers describing it as a "personal favorite from my childhood" that transported them back to simpler times. This sentiment is amplified through online communities, where users share anecdotes of the drink as a staple of , often tied to the era's local soda culture. The soda is frequently recalled in association with everyday regional life, such as family visits and casual outings at pizza shops or gatherings, underscoring its role in fostering a sense of rust-belt Americana. For instance, one consumer reminisced about out-of-state relatives enjoying Cherikee Red during summer trips to , highlighting its place in familial traditions. Such stories emphasize how the beverage contributed to community bonds in working-class areas, with its scarcity only heightening the emotional pull of rediscovery. Consumer sentiment often praises the soda's distinctive appeal, with reviewers noting its "sweet" character as addictive and integral to local identity, leading to rapid sell-outs upon revival. This enthusiasm extends to cultural expressions like memes shared in regional online spaces and merchandise such as replicas of vintage cans, which serve as tangible links to the past and reinforce communal . persists as of 2025, with posts and sales of collectible vintage cans continuing to evoke childhood memories in and . While some aspects of its branding have drawn separate critique, the prevailing consumer affection centers on its joyful, memory-laden legacy.

Controversy Over Naming

The controversy surrounding the name "Cherikee Red" primarily stems from accusations of cultural appropriation and insensitivity toward Native American communities, particularly the . The brand's name employs a deliberate misspelling of "Cherokee," evoking the name of the Indigenous tribe while punning on "cherry" for the soda's flavor, which critics argue perpetuates stereotypes of Native peoples as exotic or primitive. Additionally, the inclusion of "Red" in the name has been interpreted as a nod to derogatory terms like "," further compounding the perceived . This backlash was notably highlighted in a 2010 blog post on Native Appropriations, where author , a member of the and , described the branding as a clear example of appropriation, emphasizing how it reduces complex Indigenous identities to a commercial gimmick. The product's packaging exacerbated these concerns through imagery that inaccurately represented Cherokee culture, such as depictions of a Native American figure wearing a Plains-style warbonnet—a headdress not associated with the , who traditionally did not use such . Key incidents in the included online discussions and posts on platforms like , where users labeled it "the most racist soda ever" and drew parallels to other consumer products with problematic Native-themed names, such as Land O'Lakes or Calumet baking , which similarly employed stereotypical motifs for marketing. These critiques contributed to broader conversations about the commercialization of Indigenous symbols, though no organized or large-scale campaign specifically targeting Cherikee Red emerged during the decade. While some nostalgic consumers defended the brand as harmless regional fare, these sentiments were overshadowed by ethical concerns about perpetuating harmful tropes. The original producer, the Cotton Club Bottling and Canning Company, issued no official apology or rebranding during the soda's active production period from the late to around 2007. Subsequent revivals, such as a 2013 reintroduction by an Ohio bottler distributing in , retained the original name and distinctive label featuring the controversial imagery, despite ongoing criticisms. This lack of adaptation has kept the debate alive in cultural discussions, underscoring the challenges of addressing historical insensitivities in legacy consumer brands.

References

  1. https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/lackawanna-county/a-comeback-for-cherikee-red/523-2e4be23d-c47b-41f7-b64c-2a81c3a90fec
  2. https://www.post-gazette.com/news/state/2013/02/24/cherikee-red-rediscovered-soft-drink-from-scranton-makes-comeback-but-still-is-scarce/stories/201302240420
  3. https://kids.kiddle.co/Cherikee_Red
  4. https://www.sodafinder.com/products/cherikee-red
  5. https://www.change.org/p/bring-back-cherokee-red
  6. https://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/1970s-era-cleveland-ohio-cherikee-red-1823973017
  7. https://assignmentcenter.uspto.gov/search/trademark/reelFrameDetail?reelFrame=2913/0392
  8. https://the-soda.fandom.com/wiki/Cherikee_Red
  9. https://muse.jhu.edu/article/509019
  10. https://www.timesleader.com/archive/995012/its-a-cherikee-nation
  11. https://case.edu/ech/articles/c/cotton-club-bottling-and-canning-co
  12. https://www.asx.com.au/asx/v2/statistics/displayAnnouncement.do?display=text&issuerId=254&announcementId=605852&documentDate=1998-11-05&documentNumber=142764
  13. https://www.ebay.com/itm/167278874624
  14. https://www.cleveland.com/entertainment/2025/01/remembering-the-cotton-club-soft-drink-era-in-modern-pop-products-classic-cle-eats-drinks.html
  15. https://www.ubereats.com/product/b/2aadc8c2-c90c-5aae-b52a-bef027f59b68
  16. https://www.facebook.com/justpennsylvania/posts/cherikee-red-wasnt-just-sodait-was-childhood-in-a-bottle-the-sweeter-redder-cous/1113861004276343/
  17. https://www.eatthismuch.com/calories/soda-cherry-2126178
  18. https://www.nutritionix.com/i/cherikee-red/soda-cherry/55063196d06364a90ba9a94a
  19. https://www.reddit.com/r/Soda/comments/tkuivh/is_big_red_soda_similar_to_cherokee_red/
  20. https://sporked.com/article/what-is-big-red-soda/
  21. https://www.instacart.com/products/19347627-cherikee-red-soda-cherry-12-packs-12-ea
  22. https://www.cleveland.com/remembers/2011/08/grow_up_a_cleveland_fan_and_yo.html
  23. https://www.reddit.com/r/Soda/comments/mv8rx9/ok_anyone_have_info_on_cherokee_red/
  24. https://www.ebay.com/itm/146422205227
  25. https://nativeappropriations.com/2010/05/random-appropriation-of-the-day-cherikee-red-soda.html
  26. https://www.tumblr.com/neilkleid/9253515740/cherikee-red-the-most-racist-soda-ever
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