If you’ve never heard of Cola Couronne, then you must not have yet traveled to Haiti. The beverage is the number-one most popular drink in Haiti, both among locals and tourists who come to vacation there. While there are popular alternatives such as Coke, Fanta, or beer, they all come back to Cola Couronne on a hot summer day. Is it because of its taste or because it’s a traditional beverage? We’ll see!
Tradition Mixed with Local Heritage
Cola Couronne has a rich history. Launched in 1924 by Brasserie de la Couronne S.A., the drink is the oldest soda in Haiti. It’s not the only one, but it proudly bears the seal of the oldest one. Haitians are a sturdy bunch, and they’re very attached to their history and heritage. Cola Couronne was immediately embraced as part of the cultural identity, which it is at this point.
There’s nothing else a Haitian would rather drink on a hot summer’s day, partly because Cola Couronne is their traditional beverage but also because it’s very tasty and refreshing. Over the years, the recipe has been altered somewhat, but the essential flavor remains the same – tropical, bubbly, sweet, and fruity. It’s one of the sweetest drinks you’ll ever have, but it’s still delicious and fresh.
Fresh and Delicious Flavor
Cola Couronne wouldn’t have become the hit it is today without good taste. It’s a soda, so it’s bubbly. But what about its flavor? Orange, pineapple, a hint of banana, and other artificial fruit flavors make Cola Couronne a truly spectacular drink. It doesn’t contain any natural fruit juice, and it says so on the label, but we don’t drink soda because they’re natural or healthy; rather, we drink them because we enjoy the taste.
Cola Couronne has become such a phenomenon in Haiti and the U.S. because of its great taste, but this doesn’t mean heritage doesn’t play a role. Haitian Americans started consuming it largely because it comes from their motherland; it’s a piece of home far away, a reminder of their country. It may have started in this way, but most who still drink Cola Couronne do so for the great flavor.
Should you try Cola Couronne? Sure, why not? It’s quite affordable in Haiti and the U.S. We’ll bet you’ll start loving it after just one sip. The bubbly, fruity aroma will melt in your mouth and freshen you up, especially on a hot day. You can find Cola Couronne in stores and markets all over Florida, but owners don’t want to stop there. They want Haiti’s national soda to reach the shelves of all stores in America and beyond.
There’s no Haitian, both in and out of Haiti, who hasn’t heard of Cola Couronne, and for a good reason. With every bottle of Cola Couronne purchased, Haiti’s economy receives a well-deserved boost. You can support Haiti’s revival by enjoying a sip of cold Couronne!