What Is Loganberry? The Story Behind The Unique Buffalo Drink

What do you get when you cross a raspberry with a blackberry?

A loganberry! Yes, it is an actual berry. (I hope I'm not the only one who didn't know that.) The hybrid berry was created in California by Judge J.H. Logan in the late 1800s.

You probably know loganberry as a drink, and if you've never tried it, it's dark red, non-carbonated, caffeine-free, and a "Buffalo thing". Loganberry was originally sold in beverage form at Crystal Beach theme park over the border. The park closed in 1989, but the loganberry drink has lived on as a unique beverage in Western New York and Southern Ontario.

You've probably heard of or seen Aunt Rosie's Loganberry, which is owned by Pepsi-Cola. Another popular brand, PJ's Crystal Beach Loganberry, is owned by PJ and Carolyn Davis of Sarasoda, Inc., who both grew up in Tonawanda! Both brands are sold at most local supermarkets and restaurants in the Western New York and Southern Ontario area.

You can also find loganberry syrup, which is great to make your own loganberry slushies and milkshakes! For a more "adult" loganberry beverage, try one of these recipes!

Contributed by Katie Swaine