BIG RED was created in 1937 in Waco, Texas, by beverage chemist Grover C. Thomsen, together with R.H. Roark and Robert Montes. The drink was originally launched under the name Sun Tang Red Cream Soda. At the time, its distinctive combination of vanilla and citrus flavors made it unlike most soft drinks available in America [1].

In 1959, the product was renamed Sun Tang Big Red Cream Soda.

The final name, BIG RED, was adopted in 1969 after Harold Jansing, president of the San Antonio bottling company, heard a golf caddie refer to the drink simply as “Big Red.” The nickname proved memorable and became the official brand name [1].

Initially, BIG RED was sold mainly in Central and South Texas and around Louisville, Kentucky, before gradually expanding into additional U.S. markets. Despite wider distribution today, it remains especially associated with Texas culture [1].

Although many first-time drinkers describe BIG RED as tasting like bubblegum, the company and beverage historians generally describe its flavor as a blend of:

• Vanilla
• Lemon oil
• Orange oil
• Cream soda base

This combination creates a rich, fruity, creamy taste that has become the brand’s signature [1][2].

BIG RED is recognized for:

• Bright red color
• Bold, sweet flavor
• Texas heritage
• Retro Americana branding
• Strong regional loyalty

The brand has become a cultural symbol throughout Texas and parts of the Southern United States, frequently appearing at barbecues, sporting events, fairs, and family gatherings [2].

Over the years, BIG RED has expanded beyond its original soda with several variations, including:

• BIG RED Original
• BIG RED Zero Sugar (formerly Diet Big Red)
• Retro BIG RED (made with cane sugar)
• BIG RED Vanilla Float
• BIG Blue
• BIG Peach
• BIG Pineapple
• BIG Honey Lemonade

Some flavors have been released only in select regions or for limited periods [1][2].

BIG RED is owned by Big Red, Inc. Production and distribution are handled through licensed bottling partners, with Keurig Dr Pepper distributing much of the brand across the United States alongside independent bottlers [1].

BIG RED has traditionally emphasized:

• Texas pride
• Family traditions
• Southern hospitality
• Fun, energetic branding
• Nostalgia

Unlike global soda brands, BIG RED has largely built its reputation through regional popularity and loyal consumers rather than large international advertising campaigns [2].

BIG RED holds a special place in Southern food culture. It is commonly paired with:

• Barbecue
• Burgers
• Fried chicken
• Tex-Mex cuisine
• Fast food

The soda has also been noted as a popular “red drink” at some Juneteenth celebrations in Texas, reflecting its longstanding presence in regional traditions [1][2].

More than eight decades after its introduction, BIG RED remains one of America’s best-known regional soft drinks. While it has never matched the global scale of brands such as Coca-Cola or Pepsi, its distinctive flavor, Texas roots, and loyal fan base have made it an enduring part of American beverage history [1][2].

1. Big Red (soft drink)
2. Why Southerners Will Always Love Big Red, The Texas Soda That’s Been Around Since 1937