Back in Time Today
Some drinks are unforgettable for their flavor. Others… well, for their strangeness. Whether they were short-lived soda experiments, oddly tangy juices, or carbonated concoctions no one asked for, these beverages all left their mark—however brief—on our taste buds. Here are 15 tangy, fizzy, or just plain weird drinks we tried once (and never forgot).
1. Pepsi Blue
Pepsi Blue hit the shelves in the early 2000s, drawing attention with its electric blue color. The soda offered a berry-flavored twist on the traditional Pepsi taste, aiming to appeal to a younger audience. While its vibrant hue was undeniably striking, the flavor was polarizing. Some appreciated the sweet, fruity undertones, while others found it too far removed from classic cola. Pepsi Blue’s boldness extended beyond its taste, embodying the adventurous spirit of the time. However, its appeal was short-lived, and it was eventually discontinued. Fans still reminisce about its daring flavor profile.
2. Coca-Cola BlāK
Coca-Cola BlāK was a bold attempt to blend cola with coffee, introduced in the mid-2000s. This fusion beverage combined the classic Coke taste with a coffee twist, aiming to capture the caffeinated beverage market. However, the flavor combination puzzled many, as the two strong tastes competed rather than complemented. The drink’s niche appeal and mixed reviews led to a brief market stint. While some adventurous souls enjoyed its uniqueness, most preferred sticking to their separate coffee and cola routines. Coca-Cola BlāK remains a curious footnote in beverage history, a testament to creative experimentation.
3. Crystal Pepsi
Crystal Pepsi launched in the early 1990s, offering a clear version of the iconic cola. It was marketed as a pure and clean alternative, capitalizing on the era’s fascination with clarity and minimalism. Despite sharing the same taste as regular Pepsi, its transparent appearance confused consumers. Many expected a different flavor experience and were left perplexed. While it generated significant initial interest, the novelty quickly faded, leading to its discontinuation. Crystal Pepsi occasionally resurfaces for nostalgic promotions, continuing to intrigue those curious about this transparent twist on a classic.
4. Orbitz
Orbitz was a 1990s drink that captivated consumers with its floating gelatin balls. This non-carbonated beverage was more a visual spectacle than a thirst-quencher. It featured suspended colorful orbs in clear liquid, giving it an otherworldly look. Many found the texture off-putting, as drinking it felt like consuming a lava lamp. Despite its eye-catching uniqueness, the novelty wore off quickly, leading to its phase-out. Still, Orbitz remains a nostalgic memory for those who experienced its quirky charm firsthand. For some, it even sparked a fascination with unusual food textures.
5. Josta
Josta, introduced in the mid-1990s, was a pioneer in the energy soda market. Infused with guarana, it boasted a unique spiced-fruit flavor, setting it apart from traditional colas. Its bold taste and energizing properties quickly developed a cult following. Despite its passionate fan base, Josta struggled to maintain mainstream popularity. The drink’s distinctive flavor was both its strength and its downfall, as it appealed mainly to a niche audience. After a few short years, Josta was discontinued, leaving fans reminiscing about its bold taste and invigorating energy boost.
6. Mountain Dew Pitch Black
Mountain Dew Pitch Black debuted as a Halloween special, offering a grape-flavored twist on the citrusy classic. Its deep purple color and bold taste quickly captured the attention of fans. While it was a seasonal offering, enthusiasts eagerly anticipated its annual return. The grape infusion provided a unique twist that was both intriguing and refreshing. However, its niche appeal as a Halloween-themed beverage limited its availability. Despite its limited run, Mountain Dew Pitch Black remains a beloved flavor among fans who crave its bold, fruity taste and vibrant color.
7. Surge
Surge was Coca-Cola’s answer to Mountain Dew, launched in the mid-1990s. This citrus-flavored soda quickly gained a following thanks to its high caffeine content and bright green packaging. Marketed towards the energetic and adventurous, Surge became a symbol of 90s youth culture. Its intense flavor and sugar rush made it a favorite among thrill-seekers. Despite its initial success, the market eventually shifted, leading to its discontinuation. However, Surge’s legacy endured, prompting revival campaigns and limited re-releases that cater to nostalgic fans eager to relive the vibrant energy of their youth.
8. 7UP Gold
7UP Gold, introduced in the late 1980s, was a bold departure from the brand’s iconic lemon-lime flavor. This spiced soda carried hints of cinnamon and other earthy spices, surprising many with its warm, robust taste. While innovative, it confused consumers expecting the familiar 7UP profile. The unexpected flavor combination gained a small, devoted following, but mainstream appeal was elusive. 7UP Gold’s uniqueness wasn’t enough to sustain it in the competitive soda market, leading to its discontinuation. Today, it remains a curious chapter in the brand’s history, remembered by those who appreciated its distinct taste.
9. Apple Slice
Apple Slice joined PepsiCo’s Slice line in the 1980s, offering a tart and refreshing apple-flavored soda. Its crisp taste won over fans who sought something beyond the usual cola and citrus options. However, the apple flavor was a niche offering in a market dominated by more traditional tastes. Despite its loyal following, Apple Slice couldn’t compete with the rising popularity of other beverages, leading to its phase-out. Those who enjoyed its unique taste still fondly recall the crisp, apple essence that set it apart from its peers.
10. Dr Pepper Berries & Cream
Dr Pepper Berries & Cream was a limited-edition twist on the classic soda, infusing it with sweet berry and creamy vanilla notes. This flavor aimed to delight taste buds with its dessert-like profile, providing a new experience for Dr Pepper enthusiasts. While some appreciated the innovative combination, others found it too far removed from the original’s unique blend. Its short-lived run left a lasting impression on fans who crave its sweet, floral undertones. The flavor occasionally resurfaces in nostalgic promotions, rekindling memories of its brief but memorable existence.
11. OK Soda
OK Soda, launched by Coca-Cola in the 1990s, was as much a marketing experiment as it was a beverage. With its abstract branding and existential messaging, OK Soda quickly stood out. The vague citrusy flavor was secondary to its enigmatic marketing approach, which engaged with themes of irony and counter-culture. While it intrigued a niche audience, mainstream consumers found it perplexing. The soda’s unconventional approach ultimately contributed to its short lifespan. Despite its brief market presence, OK Soda became a cultural touchstone for those who appreciated its quirky, introspective allure.
12. Tab Clear
Tab Clear, launched in the early 1990s, was a zero-calorie soda aimed at capitalizing on the clear beverage trend. It shared a similar concept with Crystal Pepsi, offering a clear cola experience. However, its association with diet sodas and lack of a distinct flavor identity hindered its success. Many consumers were unsure of what to expect, leading to confusion and limited appeal. Tab Clear’s brief time on the market reflected the challenges of standing out in a crowded field. Despite its fade into obscurity, it remains a noteworthy experiment in beverage branding.
13. Sierra Mist Cranberry Splash
Sierra Mist Cranberry Splash was a seasonal twist on the lemon-lime soda, blending in a tangy cranberry flavor. Its festive appeal made it a holiday favorite for those seeking something different. The cranberry infusion provided a refreshing contrast to the usual citrus notes, creating a balance that appealed to many. However, its limited availability as a seasonal offering meant it was often overshadowed by year-round options. Despite this, Sierra Mist Cranberry Splash gained a dedicated fan base who eagerly anticipated its return each holiday season.
14. Kick (Citrus Punch)
Kick Citrus Punch, introduced in the early 2000s, was marketed towards a younger, energetic crowd. Its aggressive citrus flavor and vibrant yellow can aimed to capture attention in a crowded market. Despite its bold presentation, the taste didn’t resonate with everyone. Some found it too intense, overshadowing the enjoyment of the drink. Kick’s niche appeal and lack of a broader audience led to its short-lived presence in stores. Nevertheless, it remains a nostalgic memory for those who appreciated its zesty punch and dynamic branding.
15. Cactus Cooler
Cactus Cooler, a pineapple-orange soda, continues to be a regional favorite, especially in the southwestern United States. Its tangy-sweet flavor profile offers a refreshing alternative to more traditional sodas. The drink’s vibrant packaging features desert imagery, capturing the essence of its southwestern roots. While it hasn’t achieved widespread fame, it maintains a devoted following among those who appreciate its unique taste. Cactus Cooler embodies the spirit of regional specialties, providing a taste of the southwest’s sunny essence in every sip.