How American Idol’s Alex Miller Got Me Hooked on PawPaw Ale-8

This year marks the 100th birthday of Kentucky's favorite soft drink! Known as "the best of the Bluegrass in green glass," the bubbly beverage is loved for its zesty ginger and citrus taste. Did you know that they also make some other flavors too?

Kentucky Tourism Youtube

Ale-8 Recipe As Secret As KFC Herbs & Spices

The ingredients for the soda remain a top-secret family recipe. Wainscott’s great-great-nephew is now the CEO of the company.  He insists on being the sole key holder to the mixing room, which is at the top of a mysterious winding spiral staircase. I think it's awesome that every bottle still originates from one pair of hands.

Behind the Scenes at the Ale-8 Bottling Plant

Kentucky Tourism produced a series of features on various Kentucky-made brands a couple of years ago. They remind me of those "How it's Made" videos that Mr. Rogers used to share. Here is the video they made of the Ale-8 manufacturing and bottling process:

Ale-8-One Flavors

Now, the delicious drink comes in various flavors like cherry and orange, and even zero-sugar options. Or seasonal goodness like peach, blackberry, and PawPaw fruit! That's a double dose of Kentucky right there.

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Paw Paw Fruit

The PawPaw fruit grows in clusters of two to nine and is often called a "Kentucky banana" for its tropical sweetness. It tastes kind of like mango, pineapple, and yes, banana all combined. They reach peak ripeness in late summer and can be used in all kinds of creative ways.

Ale-8-One Paw Paw Flavor Review

Last year was the first year for this special local collaboration, but I had a hard time finding it. When we went to the Kentucky State Fair, I got a very special taste test in the most random way! We happened to come across American Idol star Alex Miller in the Expo Center hallway and chatted with him for a little while. He had a PawPaw Ale-8 in his hands.

Ashley Sollars

I Promise I Don't Have Cooties!

I said, "Oh! I have been looking everywhere for those. I can't wait to try it! Alex smiled and said, "Well, here!" handing over the green bottle. I said, "Are you sure? I promise I don't have any cooties." He laughed and joked, "I'm not sure I can say the same, but go ahead!"

So I took a big swig! It was soooooo good. I almost felt like I should be on an island somewhere. But nope, right smack dab in the middle of the most Kentucky place on Earth. I'm already excited to try another this summer. I bet it would be amazing with some ice cream or sherbet as a float! Ale-8 PawPaw flavor bottles are now available in stores across the state.

Where Can You Buy Ale-8-One?

You can find Ale-8-One in grocery and convenience stores all over Kentucky.  Fans of the soda who live in other states can order and have it shipped to them, unless they stock up when they visit!

Have You Ever Tried it?

When was the first time you ever tried Ale-8? Do you have a favorite flavor, or are you a fan of the OG ginger? Chime in on the Facebook conversation or send me a message on the App Chat!