In the 1800s, carbonated water went by various names, but the term that gained the most popularity and became widely used during that time was “soda water.” This term was derived from the process of adding sodium bicarbonate, commonly known as soda, to the water to create carbonation.
The history of carbonation dates back to the 1760s when techniques for properly carbonating water were developed. It was during this time that people started experimenting with infusing water with carbon dioxide to create a sparkling and effervescent beverage. However, it wasn't until the late 18th century that carbonated water became more accessible to the general public.
One notable figure in the history of soda water is Jacob Schweppe, who began selling seltzer in Geneva in 1789. Schweppe's seltzer water gained popularity and became synonymous with carbonated water. The name “seltzer” was derived from the German town of Niederselters, known for its natural carbonated springs.
By 1798, the term “soda water” started to gain traction and became the mainstream term used for carbonated water. This was likely due to the widespread use of sodium bicarbonate in the carbonation process. The term “soda” referred to sodium bicarbonate, which was commonly used in various culinary applications, including baking.
In the United States, the first bottling of soda water took place around 1835. This marked a significant step in making carbonated beverages more widely available to the public. Bottling allowed for easier distribution and consumption, making soda water a popular choice among consumers.
During the 1800s, soda water was not just consumed as a plain carbonated beverage. It was often mixed with various syrups and flavorings to create refreshing and flavorful drinks. Sodas such as ginger ale, root beer, and tonic water became popular during this time. These flavored sodas added a new dimension to the carbonated water, appealing to a wider range of tastes.
Personally, as a sommelier and brewer, I have always been fascinated by the history and evolution of beverages. Exploring the roots of soda water and understanding how it became a staple in modern-day carbonated beverages is truly intriguing. It is remarkable to think that what started as a simple experiment with carbonation techniques in the 18th century has now transformed into a multi-billion dollar industry.
Soda water was the term used to refer to carbonated water in the 1800s. The popularity of soda water grew during this time, thanks to figures like Jacob Schweppe and the advancements in bottling technology. The term “soda” derived from the use of sodium bicarbonate in the carbonation process, and it eventually became the mainstream term used to describe carbonated water. The 1800s marked a pivotal period in the history of soda water, as it became more widely available and began to be mixed with syrups to create a variety of flavored sodas.