Cosican Coke...Corsica Facts
Did you know that a Corsican invented coke, or at least played a huge role? That's what they say. But of course when it was invented it had something to do with wine.
Coke was invented by Dr. John Stith Pemberton, a local Pharmacist of Atlanta, he made the first syrup for the drink in a three legged brass kettle in his backyard. It came from his obsession of finding the ultimate medicine and an excellent drink all rolled into one. (aren't we still looking for that!) During those times reports about the health benefits of the coca plant had gripped the world. It was known to have stimulant, aphrodisiac and digestive properties (so coke IS good for us...haha). With so many uses, coca was naturally the plant that Pemberton had been looking for. HOWEVER Angelo Mariani, a Corsican had already made a coca wine, called Vin Mariani using coca leaves. This drink was a huge success in Europe.
Encouraged by the success of the Vin Mariani, Pemberton launched his own brand - Pemberton's French Wine Coca which he advertised as the 'intellectual beverage'. Pemberton soon realized that it would not be possible for him to sell a drink that was based on alcohol. Hence he started working on the formula of a temperance drink that would have extract of coca leaves and kola nuts but would not have alcohol. Finally in 1886 he landed on the formula of Coca-Cola syrup.
They even have their own Corsican Cola. And I like it....I mean its good for me and I just feel smarter drinking it!
