Fans of Ale-8 now have a new flavor of the Kentucky-proud beverage to try.
In partnership with Kentucky State University, the two businesses have introduced Pawpaw Ale-8, a limited-edition craft soda celebrating Kentucky’s native tropical fruit.
What is PawPaw
Pawpaw is a tree fruit native to Kentucky that offers a tropical like flavor that resembles a combination of banana, mango, and pineapple.
Kentucky State University has the only full-time Pawpaw research program in the world.
The research efforts at the University include improving propagation methods, developing orchard management recommendations, understanding fruit ripening and storage techniques, and more.
The collaboration between Ale-8 and Kentucky State University brings together local heritage, scientific innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit to create something uniquely Kentucky.
“For nearly a century, Ale-8-One has been a beloved part of Kentucky life,” said Kevin Price, Chief Marketing Officer of Ale-8-One. “We are thrilled to continue that tradition by partnering with Kentucky State to create something truly special. Our fans have spoken loud and clear about their love for new, authentic flavors, and we listened. We can’t wait for customers to enjoy this one-of-a-kind flavor offering.”
“We’re proud that our scientific work, conducted on these very fields, has directly informed the creation of Pawpaw Ale-8, showcasing both the academic strengths of Kentucky State and the authentic taste of Kentucky’s ‘Kentucky Banana,'” said Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo, President of Kentucky State.
Developing Authentic Flavor
Much of the scientific foundation for the new flavor was based on the research done by the team at Kentucky State University.
Led by Dr. Kirk Pomper, Professor of Horticulture at Kentucky State, the collaboration aimed to deliver a new flavor that represents the authentic taste of Pawpaw.
“This project is a perfect example of our research mission: to advance agricultural science and create new opportunities for Kentucky growers and businesses,” Dr. Pomper said. “As the site of the USDA National Clonal Germplasm Repository for pawpaw, we are proud to see our work in preserving and understanding this fruit lead to such a refreshing conclusion.”
The pawpaw fruit, often called the “Kentucky Banana,” contributes tropical notes reminiscent of mango, pineapple, and banana with a creamy, custard-like texture, all harmoniously blended with Ale-8-One’s signature ginger-citrus base.
Crafted with real sugar, natural flavors, and no artificial dyes, this refreshing beverage upholds Ale-8-One’s commitment to quality ingredients.
Daphne Phipps, Director of Product Excellence & Innovations at Ale-8-One, shared her personal journey in developing the flavor.
When she first encountered the pawpaw, she noted it looked like a small green potato growing on a tree.
Working with pawpaws provided by Dr. Pomper’s team, she meticulously conducted 49 flavor trials before arriving at the perfect recipe.
This refreshing new flavor is only here for a limited time.
Pawpaw Ale-8 is officially available anywhere Ale-8-One is sold.
For more information, visit ale8one.com.
