Organic Sparkling Lemonade

Made by: Whole Earth Foods

Origin: UK








The second drink in the Whole Earth series is a sparkling lemonade. This is a pale, bright lemon yellow colour. It is slightly cloudy (translucent) and gently carbonated, with the bubbles rising steadily when the drink is poured out.

The nose carries the sweet aroma of fresh, ripe lemons: juicy and direct. There is also a more concentrated note of lemon oil, and a sprinkling of powdered sugar.

Flavours on the palate are light by comparison (read well diluted), with a touch of sugar and lime adding to the lemons to create a sherbetty appeal. The overall impression is understated and pleasant, easy drinking and well balanced, without the citrus tang found elsewhere. Short finish.

Packaging claims: Soil Association Organic, no artificial colours, preservatives or flavours, suitable for Vegetarians and Vegans, Vegetarian Society Approved, produced to strict organic standards, as this drink is made from natural ingredients it may contains a slight sediment

Ingredients: Sparkling water, organic apple juice from concentrate (15%), organic agave syrup, organic lemon juice from concentrate (4%), natural lemon flavouring

Price: Should be about £0.80 for a 330ml can, from branches of Asda, health and wholefood stores and specialist cafes

Feelgood Drinks Co. Apple & Blueberry Juice Drink

Made by: Feel Good Drinks Co.

Origin: UK








This still juice drink is a matt red-brown colour, flecked with purple. The aromas of the various fruit juices used produce an interesting result on the nose: Tomatoes and cherries with a drop of menthol. There is a suggestion of earthy blueberries, and a leafy note (think of hedgerows). The sweetness of purple grape and apple juices can also be detected.

On the palate there is plenty of dark, earthy blueberry fruit, and a brambly style develops. A taste of prune juice follows, together with sweet spices now like a fuit compote, and an unusual minty tang adds another point of interest before the short, clean finish.

This is well balanced and flavourful for a juice drink.

Packaging claims: Mixed fruit juice drink, no artificial nasties, fruit not sugar

Ingredients: Fruit juice from concentrate (reduced colour apple 75%, orange 8.7%, grape 5.6%, apple 5.1%, blueberry 0.5%), spring water, natural flavours, natural colours, fruit and plant extract, natural stabiliser; carob

Price: Should be about £1.20 for a 400ml PET bottle, widely available

Ginseng Bird's Nest Drink- Rabbit Brand

Made by: Yeow Seng (Shark's Fin) Pte Ltd

Origin: Singapore

Imported into the UK: tbc






Bird's nest is a Chinese delicacy and is harvested from swiftlet nesting sites in Borneo, Sumatra and other parts of Indonesia. Swiftlets traditionally make their nests on cave walls using strands of hardened saliva, which they weave into nests. The nests are graded according to colour and nutritional value and can fetch up to $10,000 per kilo.

Bird's nest drink is a pale yellow colour with a bright appearance. It is non-sparkling and contains small particles of bird's nest and ginseng in suspension.

The aroma is quite unique and manages to combine ripe banana and vanilla with wet bonfire ashes, rubber and charcoal.

As with the aroma, on the palate the flavour is unique and quite challenging. What starts as sweet banana and vanilla quickly turns burnt, ashy, rubbery and progressively more bitter. There is an earthy, potato note that points towards the ginseng, and a bittersweet sensation lingers in the aftertaste.

Packaging claims: Geniune bird's nest with ginseng, no colouring, serve hot or cold

Ingredients: Water, rock sugar, bird's nest, ginseng

Price: Should be about £1.00 for a 245ml can, from oriental food stores and other specialist retailers

Organic Sparkling Cranberry

Made by: Whole Earth Foods

Origin: UK








This organic juice drink is a clear, pale salmon pink colour. When poured out, a series of fine pinhead bubbles rise steadily from various points in the glass.

There is a striking floral nose to this, quite unexpected but enticing with aromas of rose petal and carnations. A sweeter, more concentrated layer of wine gums and turkish delight lies beneath.

The delicate, balanced flavours on the palate are a delight. The impression is light but satisfying, not dilute. The appetising sour-sweet duet of the cranberry has acquired a distinctive blackcurrant twist here, with a drop of cordial coming through. We also detected an interesting grassy pepper note that may hint at the agave syrup used (the drink's sweetener). Fruit gums appear on the finish: Altogether a very refreshing experience.

Packaging claims: Soil Association Organic, no artificial colours, preservatives or flavours, suitable for Vegetarians and Vegans, Vegetarian Society Approved, produced to strict organic standards, as this drink is made from natural ingredients it may contains a slight sediment

Ingredients: Sparkling water, organic agave syrup, organic cranberry juice from concentrate (4%), organic lemon juice from concentrate (1%), natural flavourings

Price: Should be about £0.80 for a 330ml can, from branches of Asda, health and wholefood stores and specialist cafes

Vitamin Water Multi-V Lemonade (b-zinc)

Made by: Coca-Cola Enterprises Ltd

Origin: UK







This still lemonade drink is a translucent off-white colour, fading to a watery rim around the very edge of the glass. It's appearance is similar to water with an aspirin in solution.

The nose is peculiar, with a lactic aroma at first, like a Calpis (cultured milk) drink. There are more unusual aromas to follow: crushed biscuits, damp walls, papier mache...original! Everything here is subtle and swimming in a well-diluted environment.

The flavours follow suit on the palate, where a faint chalkiness compliments the taste of dilute lemon barley. A flavour of cookie dough emerges with a light citrus tang attached (that Calpis drink again), before everything vanishes in a short finish.

Packaging claims: Still lemon flavour spring water drink with vitamins and minerals

Ingredients: Spring water, fructose, sugar, citric acid, mineral salts (calcium lactate, calcium gluconate, zinc gluconate), flavourings, vitamins (C, niacin, E, pantothenic acid, B6, folic acid, B12), stabilisers (acacia gum, glycerol esters of wood rosins)

Price: Should be about £1.30-£1.50 for a 500ml PET bottle, widely available

Vimto

Made by: Nichols plc (under licence)

Origin: UK








Vimto is a fruit flavoured soft drink that originated in Manchester in 1908. It was formulated by a spice and medicine merchant under the name of 'Vim Tonic', and sold as a health tonic.

Sparkling Vimto is an intense crimson red colour, clear and bright. There is a purple hue that develops towards the rim of the glass.

The nose is aromatic and laden with fruit syrups (strawberry, cherry and blackcurrant). These are smothered in a rich vanilla essence (think of cream soda), and there is a suggestion of Parma Violet sweets. An odd note catches briefly in the throat, not unlike ammonia.

The light, sweet flavours on the palate are broadly consistent with the nose: Red and black fruit syrups, vanilla cream and Parma Violets again. Vimto has a short, sweet finish that echoes of vanilla in the aftertaste.

Packaging claims: Mixed fruit juice drink made with the delicious secret Vimto flavour, a tantalising mix of secret herbs and spices, for the most amazing taste experience you'll ever have

Ingredients: Carbonated water, sucrose, mixed fruit juices from concentrate 3% (grape, blackberry, raspberry), Vimto flavour (including natural extracts of fruits, herbs, barley malt and spices), citric acid, colour (anthocyanins), preservatives (potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate, antioxidant (ascorbic acid)

Price: Should be about £0.70-£0.80 for a 330ml can, widely available

Orangina

Made by: Schweppes International Ltd (under licence)

Origin: UK







Orangina was formulated in 1933 by a Spanish chemist from Valencia. It's original name was 'Naranjina', and it became famous for the iconic design of its 25cl/250ml glass bottles. These are teardrop shaped, and have a mottled texture that resembles the surface of citrus fruit.

Orangina is a pale, matt yellow colour with a deeper orange hue that develops towards the rim of the glass. It contains a small amount of orange fruit pulp, and the lively carbonation soon settles down when the drink is poured into the glass.

On the nose the aroma of sweet, dilute fresh orange juice is quickly lost in a tangle of other citrus notes, with grapefruit and lemon just about distinguishable.

For a brief moment on the palate the light orange flavour is tangy and refreshing. But the balance is swiftly hijacked by the sharper flavours of grapefruit and lemon. The bitterness of orange zest adds an unexpected hollow quality (reminds me of soda water), before a short finish disperses to leave a metallic note in the aftertaste.

Packaging claims: No added artificial flavourings, colours or sweeteners, with real orange pieces, shake it to wake it, natural and authentic taste of oranges with real fruit pieces, if spilt this product may stain

Ingredients: Carbonated water, orange juice and other citrus juices from concentrate 12% (orange 10%, lemon, grapefruit, mandarin), sugar, orange pulp (2%), orange zest extract, natural flavourings

Price: Should be about £0.70-£0.80 for a 330ml can, widely available

Pocari Sweat

Made by: Dong-A Otsuka Co Ltd

Origin: Japan

Imported into the UK: tbc






Pocari Sweat is a Japanese soft drink that was first launched in 1980. The drink aims to rehydrate the body, replacing both the water and balance of electrolytes (salt ions) lost through perspiration. For this reason it is popular with sports and health enthusiasts.

Pocari Sweat is faintly translucent, with a pale off-white colour. It is non-sparkling and has a wide watery rim as the colour fades towards the edge of the glass.

The nose opens on a lemony note and quickly takes up residence in the pharmacy: The powdery fizz of Alka-Seltzer, followed by the citrus of soluble Disprin tablets. There is an interesting grassy, peppery quality.

On the palate Pocari Sweat is round and salty sweet, with the initial lemon flavour becoming very briny. That grassy pepper note surfaces again, and there is a chalky texture to follow (think again of soluble aspirins). The drink finishes cleanly, albeit with a trace of citrus and salt in the aftertaste.

Packaging claims: Ion supply drink

Ingredients: Water, sugar, fructose, grape juice, citric acid, sodium citrate, sodium chloride, potassium chloride, calcium lactate, magnesium carbonate, flavour

Price: Should be about £0.80-£0.90 for a 245ml can, available from specialist retailers

Pulpy C Lychee Drink

Made by: Pokka Corp (under licence)

Origin: Japan

Imported into the UK: tbc






Pulpy C is a still juice drink containing a fine pulp of lychee fruit, as well as a measure of lychee jelly 'flakes' that sink to the bottom of the glass when the drink is poured out. It is a translucent off-white in colour, and the colour fades to a watery rim at the edge of the glass.

Sweet and typically scented on the nose, there are aromas of freshly peeled lychees, white grape juice and peaches.

The palate is lightweight, but broadly consistent, with a grain of black pepper detected beneath the lychee and grape flavours. The lychee jelly 'flakes' add a light texture to the ensemble, before a short finish.

Packaging claims: None

Ingredients: Water, sugar, lychee juice, gelling agent (E401), citric acid, ascorbic acid, calcium phosphate, flavouring

Price: Should be about £0.70 for a 240ml can, available from specialist retailers

Sabor Tropical

Made by: Baloru SA (under licence)

Origin: Ecuador

Imported into the UK: (tbc- sample bought in Spain)





This sparkling drink from Ecuador is a vibrant pink colour. It is clear and bright, and there is a purple hue that develops towards the rim of the glass.

The nose brings together an unusual combination of aromas: Parma Violet sweets and cream soda (a blend of strawberry syrup and vanilla essence). The combined effect is uncannily familiar: Vimto, along with cherry-flavoured 'Tunes' cough sweets.

There is undoubted sweet-toothed appeal on the palate, where candied flavours of cream soda and bubblegum provide the entertainment. A blackcurrant note (think of dilute Ribena) finds its way in there, before the drink ends in a short, sweet finish.

Packaging claims: Flavour of Ecuador, pure National flavour, the original since 1952, carbonated soft drink with extracts

Ingredients: Water, sugar, citric acid (E330), preservative: Sodium benzoate (E211), flavours 0.21% (tropical and strawberry), colour (E129)

Price: Should be about €0.80/ £0.70 for a 330ml can. Availability in the UK tbc

T.A.S. Mangosteen juice drink

Made by: Vara Food & Drink Co Ltd

Origin: Thailand

Imported into the UK: TRS Wholsale Co Ltd





The purple mangosteen is the fruit of a tropical evergreen tree that is thought to have originated in Indonesia and is commonly found across Southeast Asia. Mangosteens are known as the 'Queen of fruits' and are believed to have cooling (Yin) properties that counter the heat & humidity of the tropics.

This mangosteen juice drink is an off-white cloudy colour and contains a fine fruit puree (reminds me of pear juice). It is non sparkling, with pale yellow highlights and a watery rim at the edge of the glass. When opened and poured out, fine bubbles appear at the edge of the liquid, although these cannot be detected on the palate.

On the nose it is aromatic, fresh and appetisingly fruity. The aromas alternate between ripe Comice pear and nectarine. We also detected notes of lychee, and there is a creamy vanilla quality to this (think of a fresh custard).

What follows on the palate is lighter by comparison, with fresh pear juice flavours, plenty of sweetness and a milky, round texture in the mouth. A blackcurrant note emerges, followed by a gentle citrus tang (akin to pear drops), before the drink ends in a short, clean finish.

Packaging claims: None

Ingredients: Water, mangosteen puree (10%), cane sugar

Price: Should be about £0.80 for a 310ml can, from specialist retailers

San Pellegrino L'Aranciata Dolce

Made by: San Pellegrino SpA

Origin: Italy

Imported into the UK: Nestle Waters UK Ltd





This variant from the San Pellegrino stable is produced for the Italian market. An impressive deep pink in colour, it is lightly sparkling, with the colour fading to a salmon pink at the edge of the glass.

The nose opens with a scent of fresh navel oranges. The addition of 'squeezed' orange peel adds a few drops of zest. There is a tangy quailty here, with a combination of sweet (ripe) and sour or potentially bitter notes, that's altogether mouthwatering.

The palate is lighter and softer however, following the nose with a flavour of sweet, fresh navel oranges. This then develops in a candied strawberry direction (think of soft 'Chewit' sweets). There is a drop of lemony sherbet to add a gentle tang, before a short, clean finish.

Packaging claims: New with +30% more orange juice, no preservatives

Ingredients: Water, orange juice (15.6%), sugar, carbon dioxide, flavourings, acidity regulator: citric acid, antioxidant: L-ascorbic acid, colourings: E110, E122

Price: Should be about £0.70 for a 330ml can, from specialist retailers

Rodeo Energy Drink

Made by: Menken Drinks BV

Origin: Holland

Imported into the UK: (tbc- sample bought in Spain)





Rodeo is a golden yellow coloured, lightly sparkling energy drink. There is an unusal green tint to the colour when the drink is poured out and examined in the light.

The nose is enticing and rich, with a combination of vanilla essence and strawberry bubblegum (think of a cream soda), plus a warmer orangey herb note. It suggests sweetness but isn't cloying or heavy.

The palate is almost salty sweet at the outset, with attractive flavours like elderflower and apple making a juicy, positive impact. These give way slowly to the 'cream soda' combination of strawberries and vanilla.

For all its suggested sweetness, Rodeo maintains a good acidity and balanced feel in the mouth, with intense flavours that linger on the finish. It manages to be both mouthwatering and toothsome at the same time.

Packaging claims: Contains taurine; caffeinated drink; fortified with vitamins

Ingredients: Water, sugar, dextrose-fructose syrup, food acid: citric acid, taurine (0.4%), acidity regulator: sodium citrate, glucuronolactone (0.24%), flavouring, colouring: caramel (E150b), caffeine (0.032%), inositol, vitamins (B3, B5, B6, B2, B12)

Price: Should be about €0.35/£0.30 per 250ml can. Availability in the UK tbc

Fanta Orange

Made by: Coca Cola Co

Origin: UK








The name Fanta derives from the German word 'Fantasie' meaning fantasy or imagination. It was created in Germany in 1940 during World War II, as a result of the fact that Coca Cola Co was unable to import Coke syrup due to the Allied blockade. Fanta was the first drink created by Coca Cola, after the original product.

Fanta is a rich yellow colour, sparkling and bright, with orange highlights at the rim of the glass. The nose is light and combines aromas of orange squash and concentrated orange juice. There is a distinct powdery style to this (think of barley water or crushed Disprin tablet).

On the palate it's brisk and lively, with the sweetness of concentrated orange juice nicely countered by an 'orange peel' bitterness. There is also a pleasant tang of acidity along the sides of the tongue. The overall effect is well balanced and satisfying, with plenty of orangey character, however it leaves behind a peculiar salty, metallic note in the aftertaste (possibly an effect of the sweeteners).

Packaging claims: Made with real fruit; No artificial flavours or colours; Tongue tingling sparkling orange fruit drink with sugar and sweeteners; made in GB

Ingredients: Carbonated water, sugar (from beet and/or cane), orange fruit from concentrate (5%), citric acid, vegetable concentrates (carrot, pumpkin), preservative (potassium sorbate), natural flavourings, sweeteners (sodium saccharin, aspartame), antioxidant (ascorbic acid), acidity regulator (sodium citrate), stabiliser (guar gum)

Price: Should be about £0.50-£0.60 for a 330ml can, widely available

Pony Malt

Made by: Bavaria S.A.

Origin: Colombia

Imported into the UK: (tbc- sample bought in Spain)





This sparkling malt drink is a dark chocolate brown colour. The fine bubbles create a light 'head' on the drink, like a stout. The colour fades at the rim of the glass and takes on a greenish hue.

The aroma on the nose is pure malt extract, and there is a lovely scent of caramel. To add to this there is a treacly sweetness akin to a dark porter ale. As the drink warms up the aroma changes shape and becomes much drier, like cereal husks, and we detected more savoury notes of instant coffee granules and Marmite.

On the palate this drink starts dry, light and with a pronounced cereal husk flavour (think of a hay barn). Malt soon takes over, adding a little richness, with the taste of caramel, burnt sugar and a roasty note (reminds me of stout). A fresh, acidic quality now emerges to add a sense of balance, before the ride ends in a short finish.

Packaging claims: Nutritious and refreshing energy; refreshing drink of extracts

Ingredients: Water, Sugar, barley malt, carbon dioxide, colour caramel E150c, citric acid E330, flavourings, Niacin, Riboflavin and Thiamine

Price: Should be about €0.80/£0.70 for a 330ml glass bottle. Availability in the UK tbc

Bitter Kas

Made by: Pepsi-Cola Co

Origin: Spain

Imported into the UK: (tbc- sample bought in Spain)





Kas is a soft drinks company that was founded in the Basque country of North Eastern Spain. It was acquired by the Pepsi-Cola company in 1991.

Bitter Kas is a vibrant cherry red colour, clear and bright. It has purple highlights that develop at the rim of the glass and is lightly sparkling.

The nose is highly aromatic and very different. Campari or sweet red vermouth come straight to mind; with scents of tree barks, sandalwood, cloves, peppermint and violets.

The palate is at first fruity ('estery') with flavours of ripe banana, followed by red fruits: Cranberry, cherry and redcurrant. The sweet spell is soon broken however, with the arrival of a controlled bitterness signalled by flavours of kumquat and red orange peel.

There follows an extraordinarily long, bitter, lingering finish that manages to leave a complex aftertaste of vermouth herbs and spices.

Bitter Kas is a unique drink whose bittersweet flavours deserve a wider audience.

Packaging claims: Aperitif made with natural plant extracts, non alcoholic, refreshing drink made from natural extracts with sugar and reduced calorie sweetener

Ingredients: Carbonated water, sugar, acidity regulator: citric acid (E 330), aromas (including plant extracts), colouring: caramel (E 150d), carmoisine (E 122), ponceau 4r (E 124), preservative: potassium sorbate (E202), sweetener: sucralose (E 955)

Price: Should be about €0.80/£0.70 for a 330ml can. Availability in the UK tbc

Camilca

Made by: Ulker

Origin: Turkey

Imported into the UK: Sweetworld Ltd





Camilca is a sparkling Turkish lemonade. It is a colourless, clear and bright liquid. When poured out, steady streams of fine bubbles appear from various points in the glass (reminds me of a good sparkling wine).

One the nose the juicy scent of 'super ripe' lemons is mouthwatering. A sweet, clean smell that's lightly dusted with a combination of powdered sugar and crushed Disprin tablet.

On the palate Camilca is one of the lightest drinks we have come across at the Drink Station. A flavour of lemon panna cotta is followed by a warmer, sweeter note (think of vanilla custard). There is a curious tonic-like sensation at the end, possibly quinine, that had me searching through the recipe books.

The short finish arrives all too quickly nonetheless, however in spite of this Camilca manages to be a remarkably clean and refreshing drink.

Packaging claims: Lemon aromated soft drink

Ingredients: Water, saccharose, glucose syrup, citric acid (E330), acidity regulator (E331), nature identical flavours (lemon), preservative (E202)

Price: Should be about £0.70 for a 250ml glass bottle, from specialist retailers

7 Up

Made by: Dr Pepper Snapple Group

Origin: USA

Imported into the UK: Britvic plc






7 Up was originally formulated in St Louis, Missouri, USA in 1929. Until 1950 the drink contained lithium citrate, a mood stabilising drug, and was marketed as a hangover cure. The choice of name remains a mystery the inventor refused to explain. Since 1986 the brand rights have been owned by the Dr Pepper Snapple Group.

7 Up is a clear, bright colourless liquid. It is carbonated with medium sized, uneven bubbles that soon settle down in the glass after the drink is poured.

Fleeting but enticingly sweet on the nose, the aroma is a mouthwatering fusion of lemon & lime in a familiar dual role, all dusted with powdered sugar.

Light again but satisfyingly flavoured, the first sensation on the palate is an 'up-front' sweetness. Before the sugars can begin to threaten however, the acids cut through to bring things swiftly under control.

As with other lemon & lime flavoured drinks, it's the lime flavours that provide most of the running here, and appear to dominate, with the lemon in support and more closely allied to the sweetness underneath.

Despite 7 Up's modest finish, light feel, and undoubted appeal to sweeter tastes, there is enough balance between the elements and (critically) concentration of flavour to refresh and cleanse the palate.

Packaging claims: Natural Lemon and Lime flavour, no preservatives, no colourings, no caffeine

Ingredients: Carbonated water, sugar, citric acid, natural flavouring, malic acid, acidity regulator (sodium citrate)

Price: Should be between £0.50-£0.60 for a 330ml can, widely available

Lilt

Made by: Coca-Cola Co

Origin: UK








Lilt is a sparkling fruit flavoured drink that was launched in the UK in 1975. The original flavour was a combination of pineapple and grapefruit, and it was advertised as the drink 'with the totally tropical taste'.

This drink is a pale yellow colour, cloudy but translucent and with a deep yellow hue developing around the rim of the glass. It's highly carbonated with large, uneven bubbles.

Lilt has a rich, fruity nose that reflects its two main flavouring components. On the one hand, tinned pineapple juice; sweet, milky and rich. On the other, concentrated yellow grapefruit juice sharpens things up with citrus overtones. There is a peppery note where the two flavours meet in the middle.

By comparison the palate is light but adequately flavoured, again with the two contrasting flavours battling it out. The milky, tinned sweetness of the pineapple (almost coconutty) makes the early running, soon to be caught and overtaken by the sharp, zesty grapefruit.

The overall effect is balanced, as the acids counter the early sugar to refreshing effect. The carnival is soon over however as the drink ends in a short finish, leaving behind an odd salty, vaguely metallic taste (possibly a result of the three sweeteners).

Packaging claims: Totally tropical taste; this is a totally tropical tasting pineapple and grapefruit sparkling drink with sugar and sweeteners

Ingredients: Carbonated water, fruit juices from concentrates 5% (pineapple, grapefruit), sugar, citric acid, flavourings, antioxidant (ascorbic acid), sweeteners (acesulfame K, aspartame, sodium saccharin), preservative (E202), stabiliser (E412), colour (beta-carotene). Contains a source of phenylalanine

Price: Should be about £0.50-£0.60 for a 330ml can, widely available

Sprite

Made by: Coca-Cola Co

Origin: USA

Imported in the UK: Coca-Cola Enterprises Ltd





The Coca-Cola company launched Sprite in 1961, to compete with 7 Up in the sparkling lemon & lime flavour category. 7 Up's popularity had grown steadily since the 1920s. Sprite was initially marketed as a drink mixer (like bitter lemon or tonic) for use with alcoholic drinks like vodka and whisky.

Sprite is an almost colourless, clear carbonated drink with a very faint yellow hue. It emits a steady stream of fine pinhead bubbles when poured.

The nose is very light, pleasant but fleeting. The aromas, as with the flavours, have been carefully spliced together so as to be almost inseperable. Teasing them apart reveals a sliver of lime marmalade, a drop of Jif lemon juice and a sprinkled mix of powdered sugar and crushed Disprin tablet.

On the palate Sprite is a light (read well-diluted), sweet soda with ephemeral flavours of Key lime pie, Rose's lime cordial and lemon tart filling. The faint powdery aroma (Disprin again) barely emerges in the flavour before the drink disappears in a short finish.

Packaging claims: A fresh tasting, sparkling lemon & lime soft drink; Real lemon & lime flavour, no artificial colours, caffeine free

Ingredients: Carbonated water, sugar, citric acid, acidity regulator (E331), flavourings, preservative (E211)

Price: Should be about £0.50-£0.60 for a 330ml can, widely available

Dr Pepper

Made by: DP Beverages Ltd

Origin: USA

Imported into the UK: Coca-Cola Enterprises Ltd

Dr Pepper is one of America's oldest soft drinks, preceding the introduction of Coca-Cola by one year. It was formulated by a pharmacist in Texas in 1885, and served to customers at the soda fountain in his drug store. For a short time it's original name (as given by customers) was 'Waco', after the town in which it was born.

Dr Pepper is an appealing dark chocolate brown in colour, clear and becoming lighter gradually towards to rim of the glass. The lively carbonation soon settles to a steady ticking-over when the drink is poured.

The nose is fragrant and direct: It's all about almonds, with marzipan, Amaretto and Italian almond biscotti coming straight to mind. There is also a darker richness to the aroma (possibly the caramel at work) that reminds me of soft fig rolls and chocolate covered raisins.

On the palate Dr Pepper is light (read well-diluted) by comparison. Having said that, the almond flavours translate well, with the addition of a floral note (think of Parma violets or Turkish delight). The caramel colour provides a drop of treacle midway, and there is a lick of cloves just as the drink ends in a short, softly sweet finish.

Packaging claims: Carbonated fruit flavour soft drink; What's the worst that could happen?

Ingredients: Carbonated water, sugar, colour (caramel E150d), flavourings (including caffeine), phosphoric acid, preservative (E211)

Price: Should be about £0.50-£0.60 for a 330ml can, widely available

Irn Bru

Made by: A G Barr plc

Origin: Scotland, UK







Irn Bru (pronounced 'Iron Brew') was originally made under the name of 'Strachan's Brew' in Falkirk, Scotland in 1901. The current name came into being in 1946. It remains the best-selling and most popular drink in Scotland. The advertising line 'made in Scotland from girders' is uniquely associated with this drink, and refers to the Ammonium Ferric Citrate it contains.

Irn Bru is a pale, bright burnt-orange colour, clear and intense in the glass. The brisk carbonation soon settles down after the drink is poured.

The aromatic nose takes in concentrated orange juice and fairground candyfloss, before settling on 'Juicy Fruit' chewing gum (imagine a combination of strawberry and banana syrups, vanilla and icing sugar).

On the palate Irn Bru is lively but light (read well-diluted), with tinned citrus making an early impression on the sides of the tongue, followed by sweet orange squash. Those 'Juicy Fruit' flavours then take over again (reminds me of Chantilly cream), before the whole ends in a short finish, leaving a metallic, citrus tang in the aftertaste.

Packaging claims: Original & Best, Bru'd in Scotland to a secret recipe for over 100 years

Ingredients: Carbonated water, sugar (carbohydrate), citric acid, flavourings (including caffeine & quinine), preservative (E211), colours (E110, E124), Ammonium Ferric citrate (0.002%)

Price: Should be about £0.50-£0.60 for a 330ml can, widely available

Calpico Original Flavour

Made by: Calpis Co Ltd

Origin: Japan

Imported into the UK: Calpis Co Ltd Europe




Calpico is a Japanese cultured milk drink combining milk with lactobacilli. Its creation in 1919 was inspired by the sour (fermented) milk drinks a Japanese explorer encountered in outer Mongolia.

Calpico is a still, cloudy white drink, opaque but fading to a pale watery rim at the edge of the glass. Once opened a very fine mousse of pinhead bubbles appears on the surface of this drink, however these disappear gradually and cannot be detected on the palate.

The nose opens with aromas of lemon and orange citrus, followed by the rich sweetness of condensed milk (think of rice pudding). There is also a sour lactic note akin to mild plain yoghurt.

On the palate it is light and refreshing, combining milky lactose and lemon flavours in a gently tangy, sweet-sour alliance. There is a fine chalky texture reminding me of a soluble aspirin (think of Disprin). The finish is short and clean, with an excellent balance between the elements.

Packaging claims: Refreshingly sweet and tangy

Ingredients: Water, high fructose corn syrup, sugar, non fat dry mik (treated with a lactic acid culture), lactic acid, natural and artificial flavours, citric acid, soy fiber, sodium citrate

Price: Should be about £1.00 for a 335ml can, from specialist retailers

Tree Top Apple Juice

Made by: Nemeco

Origin: France

Imported into the UK: tbc





Tree Top is made from Starking apple juice. Starking is a variety of red dessert apple that originated in the USA, and is notable for it's sweet, aromatic fruit.

This juice is a bright golden amber colour, non-carbonated and very lightly cloudy due to a fine apple pulp in suspension. Once opened a very fine mousse of pinhead bubbles appears on the surface of this drink, possibly as a result of it having been canned under pressure to protect it during transport and keep it fresh. These bubbles cannot be detected on the palate.

The nose combines aromas of apple compote, apple tart (reminds me of a good shortcrust pastry) and caramelised apple. On the palate this juice is fresh and gentle, revealing light but not dilute flavours of ripe dessert apple. The short, clean finish disappears to leave a trace of caramel in the centre of the palate.

Packaging claims: 100% Apple juice, no sugar added, no additives, the choicest fruit, half a century of tradition

Ingredients: Apple juice (Starking)

Price: Should be about £0.70 for a 330ml can, from specialist retailers

Grace Ginger Beer

Made by: GraceKennedy Ltd

Origin: Jamaica

Imported into UK: Grace Foods (UK) Ltd






When poured Grace ginger beer is a lightly cloudy, translucent drink with a very pale yellow hue that becomes watery towards the rim of the glass.

The lively carbonation soon settles, and on the nose a spicy, peppery ginger note catches (think of wasabi). The warmth of the ginger is lightened by a fresh lemon citrus, reminding me of lemon barley and citronella.

By the time this hits the palate the carbonation is creamy, and the flavours open on a very light, sweet lemon citrus theme. Again the texture reminds me of barley water, marked by a touch of oil. Then the ginger flavours make a late entrance and gather in strength, to explode finally on a long finish containing warm notes of chilli pepper and cordial.

Packaging claims: Quality since 1922, Jamaican style, Great Caribean taste

Ingredients: Carbonated water, sugar, flavourings, citric acid, preservative: Sodium benzoate

Price: Should be about £0.50 for a 330ml can, from specialist retailers

A & W Root Beer

Made by: F & N Coca-Cola Pte Ltd

Origin: Singapore

Imported into the UK: Cadbury Schweppes plc

Root beer originates in Philadelphia, USA, where it was first developed as a herbal tea formula and then as a soft drink marketed to miners and the mining community, from where it's popularity grew. Root beer is still strongly associated with North America, however related drinks made using roots, tree barks, herbs and spices exist in many countries (examples being Ginger beer and Dandelion & Burdock in the UK). The original flavouring components of this drink were Sassafras tree root bark, together with Acacia bark. As health concerns gradually surfaced with the use of Sassafras, Sarsaparilla and other complementary herbs, spices and fruits were introduced to flavour the brew.

This root beer is an intense chestnut brown colour, bright and clear, lightly carbonated and fading to a slightly lighter shade of brown at the rim of the glass.

The nose is fragrant and very particular: Menthol (reminds me of Deep Heat cream), while aromas of sticky toffee, vanilla and milk chocolate Digestive play supporting roles.

The palate is sweet at first, with very light (read well-diluted) flavours of molasses, soft brown sugar and earthy caramel leading to menthol and lavender. These then disperse in a short finish, leaving behind a lightly mouth-numbing sensation of menthol and clove in the aftertaste.

Packaging claims: Since 1919, Product of Singapore

Ingredients: Carbonated water, sugar, caramel colour, flavourings, preservative (sodium benzoate), citric acid

Price: Should be about £0.70 for a 330ml can, from specialist retailers

Elephant Cream Soda

Made by: Ceylon Cold Stores Ltd

Origin: Sri Lanka

Imported into UK: Universal Suppliers Ltd

Cream Soda is derived from 'ice cream soda' and is believed to have originated in the UK, whereby a sweet carbonated soda was first served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream floating on top. As this melted it created a thick, soft and lasting foam on top, adding a creamy texture and vanilla flavour to the drink. Today the drink is popular and made to different recipes in many countries worldwide, with many still sharing a vanilla flavour in common.

This cream soda is clear, bright and has a very pale greenish yellow colour. The colour fades to a watery rim at the edge of the glass and the drink is very lightly carbonated. On the nose it is perfumed with aromas of soft marshmallow, candyfloss, whipped vanilla cream and containing a metallic note (think of a dessert mixing bowl).

The palate is very light (read well-diluted) and sweet, with ephemeral flavours of blackcurrant fool and clear honey. A nascent creamy texture then disappears without trace in a short, sweet finish.

Packaging claims: None

Ingredients: Carbonated Water, sugar, essence cream soda, liquid heading (E999), preservative E211, colour E102

Price: Should be about £0.60 for a 325ml can, from specialist retailers

A-Tip Tamarind Drink

Made by: C & A Products Co Ltd

Origin: Thailand

Imported into UK: DY Eastern Foods Ltd





Tamarind is the pod-like fruit of a tropical tree often ascribed to India, but which in fact originates in East Africa. The name is derived from the Arabic 'tamr hindi' meaning 'Indian date', since the fruit first travelled back to Egypt and Persia from India. Tamarind fruit is highly versatile and is consumed in many forms, from drinks to candy. It's sweet-sour and acidic properties make it a key ingredient in many savory dishes, chutneys and sauces (for example, Worcester and HP sauces). Thailand cultivates a strain of Tamarind that is notably sweet, with a lower acidity, making the fresh fruit especially popular there.

This drink has a light red-brown colour, is cloudy and still, and contains a fine fruit pulp in suspension. The nose carries an earthy caramel aroma (think of malt extract or molasses), along with spiced orange and a grassy, sappy note of mint (reminds me of Grass Jelly at this point).

On the palate the sweet arrival develops rapidly into a sweet-sour theme. There is a satisfying texture and weight here also, combining elements of both pear and prune juice. Fresh and balanced now the earthy citrus flavours gather, only to dissipate leaving a warm, sour yet oddly refreshing citrus tang on the short finish.

Packaging claims: None

Ingredients: Water 82%, Tamarind Pulp 10%, Sugar 8%

Price: Should be about £1.00 for a 35oml can, from specialist retailers

Marks & Spencer Cloudy Lemonade

Made by: Marks & Spencer plc

Origin: UK

The final new release in the M&S trio is this Cloudy Lemonade. With a very pale yellow colour, cloudy yet translucent and gently carbonated, it fades to a clear rim at the very edge of the glass.

It has a light, bright lemony nose (reminds me of lemon curd), with a 'freshly squeezed' yet powdery character (think of bitter lemon).

The initial impression on the palate is again light (read well-diluted) and sweet at first, before the 'bitter lemon' flavour takes hold. This increases its grip, with excellent balance now between the elements, before collapsing in a short finish and leaving a mild trace of bitterness in its wake.

Packaging claims: No artificial colours, no artificial flavourings, Vegetarian, traditional since 1934, a traditional recipe

Ingredients: Carbonated water, sugar, lemon juice from concentrate (8%), lemon fruit from concentrate (4%), natural flavouring

Price: £0.63 for a 330ml can, from Marks & Spencer and Marks and Spencer Simply Food outlets

Marks & Spencer Ginger Beer

Made by: Marks & Spencer plc

Origin: UK

The second new release from M&S is this pale, cloudy Ginger Beer. In the glass it's gently carbonated, translucent and showing a watery rim at the edge of the glass. As it settles the nose is treated to the warm, spicy aroma of freshly grated ginger root.

On the palate this is light and sweet at first, then spicy and warming with a little more creaminess in the middle, with the peppery ginger, encouraged by a marked sweetness, becoming resurgent on the finish.

Packaging claims: No artificial colours, no artificial flavourings, Vegetarian, traditional since 1937, a traditional recipe

Ingredients: Carbonated water, sugar, natural flavouring, citric acid, preservative E202

Price: £0.63 for a 330ml can, from Marks & Spencer and Marks and Spencer Simply Food outlets

Marks & Spencer Dandelion & Burdock

Made by: Marks & Spencer plc

Origin: UK

This new, carbonated drink from M&S is a mid-brown colour, with a bright amber hue. The softly fragrant, positive nose combines the sweetness of caramel with aromas of licorice root, juicy fennel stalks and a drop of dark treacle (possibly the burnt sugar extract).

On the palate it is light but agreeably creamy and balanced, with flavours of Licorice Allsorts and aniseed syrup, and despite the short finish a sweet and almost minty grain of liquorice lengthens the aftertaste.

Packaging claims: No artificial colours, no artificial flavourings, Vegetarian, traditional since 1937, a traditional recipe

Ingredients: Carbonated water, sugar, burnt sugar extract, natural flavouring, citric acid, preservative E202

Price: £0.63 for a 330ml can, from branches of Marks & Spencer and Marks & Spencer Simply Food outlets

Top Gin Korean Ginseng Drink

Made by: Da Jung Co Ltd

Origin: Korea

Imported into the UK: Korea Foods Co Ltd

This unusual drink contains a whole ginseng root. It is a bright yellow-gold colour, non-carbonated, with small flecks of the root in suspension. Nosing this, the aromas pass over an empty honey jar briefly to settle on freshly dug potatoes, covered in their soil, and geranium leaves (reminds me of a hot greenhouse).

The first sensation on the palate is initially sweet; honey and vanilla, followed by expansive flavours of oven roast vegetables (think of parsnips, potatoes and carrots). That earthy flavour returns, followed by a pleasant 'rooty' bitterness, and a very long, lingering mildly peppery, earthy finish.

A fascinating drink, complex and uniquely refreshing.

Packaging claims: Wheat free, Nut free, Dairy free; Korea 'INSAM' original name of best Ginseng, Ginseng-D; Preservatives: Sodium Benzoate

Ingredients: White Ginseng, honey, citric acid, Vitamin C, trisodium citrate, DL-malic acid, nicotinamide, fructose, purified water, sodium benzoate

Price: Should be about £3.00 for a 120ml glass bottle, from specialist retailers

San Pellegrino ‘Limonata’

Made by: San Pellegrino SpA

Origin: Italy

Imported into the UK: Nestle Waters UK ltd





The Limonata flavour from San Pellegrino is a very pale translucent yellow, watery at the rim and gently carbonated in the glass. On the nose it has the direct, mouthwatering aroma of a freshly stirred and sweetened ‘citron presse'.

This appetising vision carries to the palate with an excellent sharp, zesty attack controlling the sweetness. This is followed by a tangy sourness containing plenty of lemon character, and a short but cleansing finish that leaves the palate suitably refreshed and invigorated.

Packaging claims: None

Ingredients: Water, reconstituted lemon juice 16%, sugar, natural CO2, natural flavourings, antioxidant: L-ascorbic acid

Price: Should be about £0.70 for a 330ml can, from specialist retailers

San Pellegrino ‘Aranciata’

Made by: San Pellegrino SpA

Origin: Italy

Imported into the UK: Nestle Waters UK ltd





San Pellegrino Aranciata is a gently carbonated drink, with a very pale translucent orange colour and fading to a watery rim at the edge of the glass. It has an inviting aroma of sliced fresh oranges, marinated and garnished with orange peel.

On the palate a clean orange attack, light but flavourful and perfectly balanced between sweetness and acidity, leads to a refreshingly bitter finale.

Packaging claims: None

Ingredients: Water, reconstituted orange juice 18%, sugar, natural CO2, citric acid, natural flavourings

Price: Should be about £0.70 for a 330ml can, from specialist retailers

Cecil Mixed Fruit Drink

Made by: CBL Fruits & Beverages (Pvt) Ltd

Origin: Sri Lanka

Imported into the UK: Serendib Global Foods UK




This fruit juice drink's pale burnt-orange colour fades to a yellow rim in the glass, and it contains a fine sediment of pureed fruit in suspension. The nose is dominated by a rich, heady, sweet aroma of tinned pineapples in syrup, with ripe mango in support and masking a dusty, warm background (think of a wooden chopping board).

On the palate sweet, lazy flavours of tinned fruit cocktail take over, followed by pineapple rings, and leaving behind a milky sweet, almost cloying sensation on the short finish. The fruit puree adds a slight texture in the mouth.

[Difficult to say what the bevvy of 'E numbers' added to this drink's note, however they didn't go unnoticed!]

Packaging claims: None

Ingredients: Water, sugar, pineapple juice, mango juice, paw paw juice, E466, E330, E223, E012, E122, E124

Price: Should be about £0.90 for a 190ml glass bottle, from specialist retailers

Elephant Necto

Made by: Ceylon Cold Stores Ltd

Origin: Sri Lanka

Imported into the UK by: Universal Suppliers Ltd





Elephant Necto is a pale red, gently carbonated drink with a vibrant purple hue. Nosing this there is a pleasant, sweet aroma of blackcurrants, strawberries, a waft of fairground candy floss and the powdery scent of an effervescent drink tablet.

The palate follows on with attractive flavours of blackcurrant fool, strawberry, whipped cream and vanilla (think of a cream soda). There is an almost cordial or syrup-like quality to the fruit, but the drink remains light and fresh to taste, with the finish falling firmly on the sweeter side without being cloying.

Packaging claims: None

Ingredients: Carbonated water, sugar, citric acid, essence Necto, preservatives E211, colours E214, E122, E133

Price: Should be about £0.60 for a 325ml can, from specialist retailers

Laziza ‘Apple’ non-alcoholic malt beverage

Made by: Brasserie Almaza SAL

Origin: Lebanon

Imported into the UK by: Heineken UK Ltd





Laziza is a golden yellow carbonated drink. In this version the initial aroma of ripe 'Golden Delicious' apple peel is followed by the slightly heavier scent of warm cereal grains, and finally a sharp note (almost pleasantly acetic).

On the palate there are flavours of caramelised baked apple, then a sprinkling of brown sugar on top of biscuity malt (think of a crumble topping), with the sugars balancing the bitterness of hops on the finish.

Packaging claims: 0.0% alcohol, Since 1931, product free from genetically modified ingredients

Ingredients: Water, malted barley, maize, sugar, hops, citric acid, nature identical apple flavour

Price: Should be about £0.90 for a 330ml glass bottle, from specialist retailers

Laziza ‘Regular’ non-alcoholic malt beverage

Made by: Brasserie Almaza SAL

Origin: Lebanon

Imported into the UK by: Heineken UK Ltd





Laziza is a golden yellow carbonated drink. The nose is clean and direct, beer-like with a pronounced aroma of freshly malted cereal grains.

The light but clean palate is moderately bitter, with flavours of roasted cereal grains, malt extract and containing a warmer piquant citrus note (imagine a Seville orange). The lingering bitterness on the finish fades to leave a citrusy aftertaste.

Packaging claims: 0.0% alcohol, Since 1931, product free from genetically modified ingredients

Ingredients: Water, malted barley, maize, hops, citric acid, nature identical malt flavour

Price: Should be about £0.90 for a 330ml glass bottle, from specialist retailers

Black Bean Calcium Soy Drink

Made by: Sahmyook Foods

Origin: Korea

Imported into the UK by: No details given





Black beans are known as ‘the queen of beans’ in Asia, and black foods comprise one of five food colour groups in Chinese medicine (the other four groups being: Green, red, yellow and white). Each food colour group is believed to relate to the correct functioning of specific organs in the human body. Black foods are believed to maintain healthy kidneys. A balanced diet that incorporates foods from each colour group is thought to keep the body healthy and well-nourished.

This drink is an opaque off-white, very similar to the colour of a good café latte. On the nose there is a fresh, earthy aroma of blended pulses (reminds me of a bean salad), a trace of cocoa and something more vegetal (think of wet tree bark or mushroom compost).

The palate is sweet at first, smooth, lightly viscous and creamy textured, with flavours of sweet beansprouts, creamed pulses and soya. The finish is round, soft, milky textured and sweet, but not cloying.

Packaging claims: No preservatives, no artificial flavours or colourings, no cholesterol

Ingredients: Coming soon- tbc

Price: about £0.70 for a 195ml tetra brik carton, from specialist retailers

Peanut and Milk Protein Drink

Made by: Xiamen Yinlu Foods Co Ltd

Origin: China

Imported into the UK by: Interlink UK Ltd





Peanut milk is made by soaking raw, ground peanuts in water, then heating the mixture (often with the addition of a small amount of salt and sugar to taste), and finally cooling and filtering the liquid through a strainer to obtain the 'milk'.

This peanut milk drink is an off-white opaque colour, with golden brown highlights (reminding me of a very milky tea). It has the direct and unmistakable aroma of freshly opened peanuts in their husks.

On the palate there is a satisfying weight to this, very round and lightly oily, with flavours of peanut butter, milky praline, a drop of clear honey and a texture reminding me of soya milk. The finish is soft and clean, with the balance firmly on the sweeter side.

Packaging claims: China top brand 2006-2009

Ingredients: Water, sugar, peanuts 8%, milk powder 5%, emulsifier (E473), artificial sweetener (E950)

Price: Should be about £0.60 for a 240ml can, from specialist retailers

Aloe Vera King ‘Natural’ Grape Taste

Made by: OKF Corp

Origin: Korea

Imported into the UK: Korea Foods Co Ltd





Aloe Vera is a succulent (water storing) plant and member of the Lily family, whose origins can be traced back to its role in Ancient Egyptian medicine. It has long been known and appreciated for its role in skincare and the treatment of skin aliments like burns, infection, cuts & grazes, bites & stings. Aloe Juice is made from the nutrient rich gel found inside the hollow cavity in the leaf stems. Whole leaf Aloe Vera is also made by pulping both the inner gel & outer leaves together. Drinking Aloe Vera juice is widespread throughout Asia and South America, and is said to aid digestion and promote internal health along the digestive tract.

This version of Aloe Vera King is a pinkish red, slightly cloudy and non-carbonated drink containing small flakes of Aloe Vera plant in suspension. Nosing this, the aroma of Concord grapes make the first impression, followed by Turkish delight, cherry jam and a warm leafy note (think of rose petal).

The palate is light but satisfying, with flavours of clear honey and earthy red fruits, fresh and perfectly balanced before a finish of cherrystones ends on a herbal note (imagine warm grass).

Packaging claims: 2007 World Best 100 million seller, no artificial colouring, no artificial flavours, no preservatives, no fat

Ingredients: Mineral water, organic Aloe Vera powder (22%), Aloe Vera gel (8%), organic cane sugar, Honey, citric acid, natural grape flavour

Price: About £1.20 for a 500ml PET bottle, from specialist retailers

Aloe Vera King ‘Natural’

Made by: OKF Corp

Origin: Korea

Imported into the UK by: Korea Foods Co Ltd





Aloe Vera is a succulent (water storing) plant and member of the Lily family, whose origins can be traced back to its role in Ancient Egyptian medicine. It has long been known and appreciated for its role in skincare and the treatment of skin aliments like burns, infection, cuts & grazes, bites & stings. Aloe Juice is made from the nutrient rich gel found inside the hollow cavity in the leaf stems. Whole leaf Aloe Vera is also made by pulping both the inner gel & outer leaves together. Drinking Aloe Vera juice is widespread throughout Asia and South America, and is said to aid digestion and promote internal health along the digestive tract.

Aloe Vera King is a slightly cloudy, non-carbonated drink containing small flakes of Aloe Vera plant in suspension. On the nose there is a pronounced aroma of Concord grape juice, fresh grape skins (reminding me of Muscat), honeysuckle and a cucumber note (possibly the Aloe).

The aromas soon settle down and the palate is light and well-diluted with flavours of clear honey, marshmallows, icing sugar, followed by cucumber, with finally those Concord grapes emerging on the short finish. The balance falls just on the sweeter side, emphasised by the combination of honey and grape flavours. The small, soft flakes of Aloe Vera add interest and a light texture.

Packaging claims: No. 1 brand by sales worldwide, no artificial colouring, no artificial flavours, no preservatives, no fat, no allergens

Ingredients: Mineral water, fructose, Aloe Vera powder (22%), Aloe Vera gel (8%), Honey (Korea Origin), acidity regulator: Citric acid, natural grape flavour

Price: About £1.20 for a 500ml PET bottle, from specialist retailers

Vitaene C

Made by: Pokka Corp.

Origin: Japan

Imported into the UK by: tbc





Vitaene C is a carbonated vitamin drink (C and B) with a very bright, almost florescent yellow colour. On the nose it has a soft, powdery scent of mixed yellow and orange citrus fruits, icing sugar and sodium bicarbonate (reminds me of an effervescent vitamin C powder or tablet).

The palate confirms this, with light, powdery citrus and sherbet flavours, as the carbonation settles quickly, and a soft finish whose balance falls just on the sweeter side.

Packaging claims: None

Ingredients: High fructose corn syrup, citric acid, flavouring, vitamin C, niacin amide, caffeine, sodium glutamate, sodium aspartate, vitamin B6, vitamin B12

Price: about £1.70 for a 240ml brown glass bottle, from specialist retailers

Ramune Soda Drink

Made by: Showa Boeki Co Ltd

Origin: Japan

Imported into the UK: Showa Boeki Europe BV




Ramune drinks are very popular in Japan. The word Ramune is derived from the Japanese pronunciation of the English word ‘lemonade’. Ramune soda drinks come in distinctively shaped ‘Codd-neck’ glass bottles, and have a unique glass marble ball closure that is punched through and trapped neatly in a hollow space in the neck of the bottle when the drink is opened, and in which it rattles around as the drink is consumed. Along with the conventional fruit flavours, there are alleged to be some interesting flavours of this drink available: Wasabi, kimchi, octopus and curry…we will keep our eyes open for them!

This Ramune is colourless and carbonated, with fine bubbles appearing as they do in a sparkling wine, tiny at first and from specific points in the glass, and growing bigger as they rise up through the liquid.

On the nose it is has a very juicy, estery, mouthwatering fruit fragrance (reminding me of ‘Juicy Fruit’ chewing gum), combining banana, strawberry, icing sugar and a suggestion of violets.

The palate is very soft and well-diluted but with a creamy texture, with flavours of ripe banana slices, cream and icing sugar. The sweetness is perfectly balanced by the gentle carbonation, which cleanses the palate on the finish.

Packaging claims: None

Ingredients: Carbonated water, sugar, high fructose corn syrup, citric acid, artificial flavour

Price: Should be about £1.50 for a 200ml glass bottle, from specialist retailers

Yeo's Grass Jelly Drink

Made by: Yeos

Origin: China

Imported into the UK: Chadha Oriental Food Ltd





Grass jelly is a popular dessert in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Southeast Asia, where it is cut into cubes, added to shaved ice or fruits and sweetened with honey or sugar. Grass jelly, popularly known as ‘Chin Chow’ is made from a type of herb belonging to the mint family (latin name: Mesona Chinensis). It is thought to have cooling (Yin) properties and therefore readily consumed in drinks as a form of refreshment in hot weather. In Vietnam it is believed to enhance female fertility, as the herb’s roots contain oestrogen. The black jelly strands are also stirred into soy milk in Malaysia to create a drink called ‘Michael Jackson’.

This is dark brown in colour with yellow highlights, certainly an unusual colour for a soft drink. There is a sizeable sediment of grass jelly strands suspended in the drink, comprising about one quarter of the can’s contents, and these sink to the bottom of the glass when poured. There is also a very light effervescence forming on the surface of the drink, as if the contents were fermenting quietly.

The nose is earthy and ‘rooty’ (reminds me of a root beer or a dandelion & burdock) with malt extract and a hint of liquorice coming through. The palate has a well-diluted caramel flavour (imagine a flat cola) with a drop of treacle and a sappy, leafy tang. This has a short finish, disappearing quickly, and confirming the well-diluted impression, with a grain of liquorice right at the end. The grass jelly strands break up easily in the mouth and add a light texture.

Packaging claims: Contains no preservatives, authentic Asian drink

Ingredients: Water, aqueous extract of Mesona Chinensis (1.5%), cane sugar, modified tapioca starch

Price: Should be about £0.70 for a 330ml can, from specialist retailers