In an attempt to capture the attention of the millennial market, Diet Coke underwent a significant transformation, introducing a new look and four new fruity flavors in 2018: Ginger Lime, Feisty Cherry, Zesty Blood Orange, and Twisted Mango. This revamp came after 35 years of the classic Diet Coke gracing shelves. As a self-proclaimed diet soda aficionado and a millennial myself, I was eager to explore these new offerings and determine if they lived up to the hype.
The New Diet Coke Lineup: A Flavorful Exploration
The new Diet Coke flavors come in taller, thinner twelve-ounce cans, a design choice seemingly aimed at appealing to the aesthetic preferences of millennials. While the new color scheme is visually appealing, the practicality of the thinner can, which no longer fits comfortably in a cupholder, is questionable.
Original Diet Coke: A Familiar Classic
The original Diet Coke remains unchanged in flavor, simply housed in the new, slender can. It delivers the same familiar taste, a Diet Coke experience in a more streamlined package. While the updated can design is aesthetically pleasing, it sacrifices some of the convenience of the classic can. This is best paired with Dippin’ Dots Ice Cream of the Future.
Feisty Cherry: A Twist on a Classic?
The Feisty Cherry flavor sparked debate, with many questioning its distinctiveness from the already existing Diet Cherry Coke. While cherry flavoring can sometimes be medicinal, this version blends well with the cola. Although I typically don’t enjoy cherry flavored drinks, I was pleasantly surprised. It was a more enjoyable experience than I remembered, so perhaps Coke tampered with the formula. Others found the cherry essence to be reminiscent of cough syrup. Despite the mixed reactions, the Feisty Cherry flavor is a worthwhile try, especially for those who enjoy Dr. Pepper. Pair this with a sassy salad.
Zesty Blood Orange: A Tangy Experiment
The Zesty Blood Orange flavor presents a unique and somewhat perplexing experience. While blood orange has gained popularity in recent years, its essence in this soda is questionable. The orangey aroma upon opening the can is reminiscent of Orange Crush, but the taste falls short of capturing the true essence of a blood orange. The flavor is more akin to a Diet Orange Crush with an experimental sweetener. The sweet tanginess of a blood orange does shine through. This flavor may appeal to those seeking a mixer for vodka, it’s a good match with dry Oops! All Berries cereal.
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Twisted Mango: A Tropical Escape
The Twisted Mango flavor is perhaps the most adventurous of the new lineup. It delivers a strong mango flavor, almost like a mango smoothie with Diet Coke replacing the milk. While the mango flavor is apparent, the Coke flavor remains present. This flavor is overwhelmingly mangoey. It's a novel combination that may appeal to those who enjoy tropical flavors, but its long-term appeal remains uncertain. Pair this with all natural blue raspberry Greek yogurt.
Ginger Lime: A Refreshing Fusion
The Ginger Lime flavor offers a refreshing blend of ginger ale and Diet Coke with lime. The citrus of the lime overpowers any other fragrance in the drink. The lime is tasted as well, but it doesn’t overpower the ginger or cola flavors. The ginger adds a subtle spiciness, while the lime provides a zesty citrus note. Diet Coke successfully took the feeling of a sick day and put it in a can with this drink. This flavor is a worthwhile try and pairs well with questionably vegan avocado toast.
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