In this modern world of corporate uniformity, where every city looks like the next and every bottle and can bears the same labels and contents, it’s a delight to find a standout local tradition. These reminders of simpler, more individual times make exploring the Northeast so worthwhile. One great example is Avery’s Beverages in New Britian, CT.
Avery’s Beverages is all about tradition, quality, and community spirit. Founded in 1904 by Sherman F. Avery, this small local bottling company has been delighting soda enthusiasts for over a century.
With a loyal local fan base, Avery’s continues to thrive, offering a unique glimpse into the past while serving up some of the finest craft sodas available.
Avery’s Beverages began its journey in a red barn on Corbin Avenue, where Sherman F. Avery started crafting sodas with a horse-drawn wagon for deliveries. Fast forward to today, and the company still operates from the same historic location, preserving the charm and authenticity that have become its hallmark.
The company is renowned for its wide array of flavors, boasting over 35 varieties, including classics like Cream, Birch Beer, Root Beer, and Ginger Ale. Each soda is made using real cane sugar and the finest quality ingredients, ensuring a taste that is both nostalgic and refreshingly unique.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Avery’s Beverages is its commitment to traditional bottling methods. The process begins with pure cane sugar, which is mixed with well water to create a simple syrup. This syrup is then combined with various natural and artificial flavorings to produce the distinct taste of each soda.
The bottling process itself is a journey back in time. After the bottles are washed and sterilized, they are placed in a 1950s bottling machine. This machine fills each bottle with carbonated water, and the syrup clings to the bottom until the bottles are vigorously inverted three times by hand. This meticulous process ensures that every bottle of Avery’s soda maintains its signature flavor and quality.
Avery’s Beverages prides itself on using vintage machinery that adds to the nostalgic experience. The bottling machine, a relic from the 1950s, is a key part of the production process. It may not be the most efficient by modern standards, but it embodies the company’s dedication to preserving traditional methods.
The sodas are bottled exclusively in glass, which not only enhances the flavor but also aligns with the company’s commitment to quality and sustainability. Each bottle is a piece of history, a tangible connection to the early days of soda making.
The ingredients used in Avery’s sodas are carefully selected to ensure the highest quality. Each flavor is crafted with carbonated water, pure cane sugar, and a blend of natural and artificial flavors. Additional ingredients like citric acid, caramel color, and sodium benzoate (a preservative) are used to enhance the taste and preserve the freshness of the sodas.
For example, the Ginger Ale includes carbonated water, pure cane sugar, natural flavors, citric acid, caramel color, and sodium benzoate. This dedication to quality ingredients is a cornerstone of Avery’s Beverages, ensuring that every sip is a delightful experience.
Avery’s Beverages is more than just a soda company; it is a cherished part of the New Britain community. The company actively participates in local events and initiatives, fostering a sense of community and giving back to its loyal customers.
One notable example is Avery’s collaboration with Connecticut Foodshare. Together, they created Turkey Tonic, a seasonal soda that helped raise funds for the organization’s annual campaign to provide Thanksgiving meals to families in need. This partnership not only highlights Avery’s commitment to community service but also showcases its creativity in developing unique and meaningful products.
For travelers, a visit to Avery’s Beverages offers a unique and immersive experience. The factory tour is a journey through time, where visitors can witness the traditional bottling process, explore the vintage machinery, and even create their own custom sodas. The tour includes a visit to the mixing room, where guests can choose their syrups and hand-shake their bottles, making for a fun and interactive experience.
The picturesque grounds and historic red barn add to the charm, making it a perfect destination for families, soda enthusiasts, and anyone looking to step back in time and enjoy a taste of history.
Avery’s Beverages is known for its creativity and innovation, often producing special edition sodas that capture the imagination. Their “Totally Gross Soda” line includes quirky flavors like Zombie Brain Juice, Dog Drool, and Worm Ooze, which are particularly popular during Halloween. These fun and unusual flavors are a hit with kids and adults alike, adding a playful twist to the traditional soda experience.
Additionally, Avery’s offers private label sodas for special events such as weddings, birthdays, and corporate functions. These custom-labeled sodas make for unique and memorable gifts or party favors, further cementing Avery’s role in the community and beyond.
Visitors to Avery’s Beverages often leave with fond memories and a newfound appreciation for old-fashioned soda making. The hands-on “Make Your Own Soda” experience is a highlight for many, allowing guests to create their own unique flavors and take home their creations. This interactive tour is perfect for families, school groups, and anyone looking to learn more about the art of soda making.
Customer reviews frequently praise the friendly and knowledgeable staff, the charming and historic setting, and the exceptional quality of the sodas. Avery’s commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in every aspect of their operation, from the meticulous bottling process to the warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Avery’s Beverages is a shining example of how tradition, quality, and community can come together to create something truly special. From its humble beginnings in a red barn to its status as a beloved local institution, Avery’s continues to delight and inspire. Whether you’re a local resident or a traveler passing through New Britain, a visit to Avery’s Beverages is a journey worth taking. So, next time you find yourself in Connecticut, make sure to stop by and savor the timeless flavors of Avery’s Beverages.
For more information
- averysoda.com
Micheal A. Walsh, a prolific travel writer, delves deep into the historical events and sights in the Northeastern US, crafting meticulously researched travel articles for Northeast Traveler Magazine. Walsh skillfully weaves narratives that transport readers through time, exploring the captivating stories behind the region's landmarks. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for uncovering hidden gems, Walsh's articles serve as a gateway for readers to embark on historical journeys, immersing themselves in the fascinating past of the Northeast.
