The Unlikely Hero of the Cola Wars: RC Cola's Rise to Redemption

RC Cola is an old-school alternative to Pepsi and Coca-Cola that deserves more respect. The soda was a pioneer in the industry, introducing aluminum cans, diet, and caffeine-free varieties before its competitors. Its unique flavor profile is sweeter, smoother, and less aggressively acidic than Coke.

The origin story of RC Cola begins with Claud Hatcher, a pharmacist and grocery wholesaler from Georgia. In 1905, he created his own soft drinks in the basement of his family's store after a disagreement with Coca-Cola over syrup prices. Chero-Cola was reformulated and reborn as Royal Crown (RC) Cola in 1925.

While some people describe RC as generic or watered-down compared to Coke, it has developed its own flavor profile and cultural following. The soda's history and popularity are evident in the American South, where folks have a special relationship with RC. In fact, every year, a tiny town in Tennessee holds an RC Cola-MoonPie Festival.

For those who enjoy RC, it pairs well with food, providing just enough sweetness without overwhelming the palate. Fans may have to seek out random Dollar Generals or regional stores to get their fix, but the underdog status of RC is particularly refreshing.