Drink Station

AOk Red Grape & Cherry Juice Drink

2011-02-17T15:59:00.023Z

Made by: AOk Drinks Ltd

Origin: UK

AOk Drinks was founded in 2008, with the aim of creating a drink to deliver the body's daily antioxidant requirements in a single serve. Antioxidants are utilised by the body to combat 'free radicals', being harmful molecules which enter the body in a variety of different ways, ultimately as a result of our interaction with the environment.

Unless free radicals are neutralised by antioxidants then they cause damage to cells that results in accelerated ageing and ultimately disease. The result of the founders' research was a drink formula combining different, complimentary active ingredients, thereby producing a potent antioxidant mix.

The drink is a deep purple colour, opaque at the core like a young red wine, and containing a small amount of red fruit puree in suspension.

Aromatic on the nose, with a sweet, earthy (like ginseng) and berried quality. There are various notes of gingercake, liquorice, menthol, molasses....quite complex.

Sweet, soft earthy blueberry and prune flavours give way to the gently sour and tart cherry. Gingercake and mint add interest, and there is a nice balance between the sweet and tart elements.

The effect becomes lightly mouthwatering on the finish, with the sweeter notes sustaining the flavours well.

Verdict

There's a lot going on here on the nose and palate, although considering the prominence given to cherries and cherry juice on the label, it's distinct flavour is well integrated and hard to isolate beyond the tart effect it produces on the finish. The dark, rich and sweet flavours should appeal to fans of blueberries, ginseng and Concord or black grape juice. Quite apart from that the drink's powerful antioxidant content is delivered in a compact and handy size.

If you like this drink then you may like to try these: the Berry Company Acai juice drink, Feelgood Drinks Co. Apple & Blueberry juice drink, Top Gin ginseng drink

Our thanks go to Helen Lewis for providing the sample.

Packaging claims: Anti-oxidant drink, 100% natural ingredients, no artificial sweeteners, no artificial colourings, no artificial ingredients, no added sugar, your daily recommended requirement of antioxidants, one of your 'five a day', just 145 calories

Ingredients: Juice from concentrate and pressed juice 99% (grape 83%, tart cherry puree 15%, ginger 1%), rehydrated powdered aloe vera juice 1%, natural flavour

Price: Should be about £1.60-£1.70 for a 250ml PET bottle, available from branches of Waitrose, via Ocado, and from health food stores nationwide

Fever Tree Naturally Light Indian Tonic Water

2011-01-12T17:53:00.008Z

Made by: Fevertree Ltd

Origin: UK

Fevertree Naturally Light tonic water uses pure fructose (fruit sugar) as a sweetener, instead of sucrose, thereby delivering 45% fewer calories than the standard product (20.5 Kcal per 100ml in this case).

This version is clear and bright, with fine bubbles rising steadily. Fresh lemon icing on the nose, this is delicate, powdery and very attractive.

On the palate there follows a fresh lemon citrus attack, with a zesty flavour and good intensity. This drink has a very clean mouthfeel (no cloying, oily or salty notes), with a firm and bone-dry finish.

Verdict

We're not normally convinced by anything lighter or milder (read low calorie), but this one really works. The drink is well balanced and does not compromise on flavour. The key difference is that this version is drier on the finish compared to the regular ('Premium') version. All Fevertree drinks deliver on flavour and have a clean finish, which is really their signature.

Packaging claims: Lower in calories, Fever-Tree with 45% fewer calories, no artificial sweeteners, flavourings or preservatives, contains natural quinine

Ingredients: Spring Water, Pure Fructose (fruit sugar), Citric Acid, Natural Flavours, Natural Quinine

Price: Should be about £0.75 for a 200ml glass bottle (£3.00 for a 4 x 200ml pack), widely available

Fentimans Curiosity Cola

2010-08-25T16:26:00.008+01:00

Made by: Fentimans Ltd

Origin: UK

Fentimans Cola is a dark chestnut brown colour, clear and carbonated with fine bubbles. In contrast to other Fentiman drinks, there was no visible sediment in this bottle.

The nose is fragrant with sweet confectionary: Cola bottles. There is plentiful vanilla and sweet spices (cinnamon, allspice), and baking aromas that suggest gingerbread, spice cake and empty icing bowls.

Adequately flavoured with sweet 'cola bottles' on the palate, with layers of vanilla and baking spices to follow. There is a syrupy sweetness in control (reminds me of a sodastream concentrate), before the acids take over, clean up and refresh. Soft finish, remaining sweet.

Packaging claims: Botanically brewed, fermented botanical drink with herbal extracts

Ingredients: Fermented ginger root extract, carbonated water, sugar, catuaba extract, guarana extract, caramel (E150), phosphoric acid (E338), cola flavour 9594 (flavouring), caffeine

Price: Should be about £1.00-£1.20 for a 275ml glass bottle, available from Waitrose, Booths, Health food stores, independent and specialist food stores nationwide

Fentimans Victorian Lemonade

2010-08-22T19:26:00.008+01:00

Made by: Fentimans Ltd

Origin: UK

Fentimans was originally founded in 1905, when Thomas Fentiman, a West Yorkshire steel worker, traded a loan for a ginger beer recipe, to be held as collateral. The loan was not repaid, and Fentiman commenced production of the ginger beer and started selling it door to door. The company closed between the mid 1960s until 1988, when Eldon Robson (great-grandson of TF) restarted production on the original site.

Fentimans lemonade is a pale lemon yellow colour, cloudy and containing a fine sediment. There is a green tint to the colour when examined in the light.

The nose is aromatic and distinctly herbal, with plenty of juicy lemon intensity, given an unusual green and lime-like quality.

Grassy, sappy lemons follow suit on the palate, with nettle and basil giving leafy flavours. Tangy now, with fizzing sherbet and mouthwatering flavour. Good intensity too...

This is an original take on lemonade, with green herbal notes providing an unusual twist.

Packaging claims: Botanically brewed, not more than 0.5% alcohol by volume, fermented botanical drink with herbal extracts

Ingredients: Carbonated water, sugar, lemon juice concentrate (12.7%), glucose syrup, ginger, pear juice concentrate, cream of tartar, natural flavours: lemon, speedwell, juniper extracts

Price: Should be about £1.00-£1.20 for a 275ml glass bottle, available from Waitrose, Booths, Health food stores, independent and specialist food stores nationwide

Fever-Tree Mixers Part 2

2010-08-15T17:14:00.013+01:00

Made by: Fevertree Ltd

Origin: UK

Following on from the initial review (see below), we present the second series of classic mixers from the Fever-Tree portfolio: Soda Water, Bitter Lemon and Ginger Ale...

Fever-Tree Soda Water

Fever-Tree Soda Water is a bright, clear liquid. It is highly carbonated, with noticeably small bubbles rising steadily from various points in the glass when the drink settles.

There is a very light, powdery scent to this, like a well diluted Alka Seltzer or the spray of a vintage Soda Syphon.

Lively mouthfeel, with the Soda Bicarb pinging around the palate. Biscuity, with a creamy bite, like water biscuits covered in a thin layer of salted butter. A light bitterness precedes the short finish. A cleansing and refreshing mixer.

Packaging claims: Made with pure spring water

Ingredients: Natural spring water, bicarbonate of soda

Price: Should be about £0.75 for a 200ml glass bottle (£3.00 for a 4 x 200ml pack), widely available

Fever-Tree Bitter Lemon

A pale yellow colour, slightly cloudy and with a wide watery rim developing towards the edge of the glass. The lively carbonation soon settles, and the trademark small bubbles settle in and tick over steadily.

Concentrated lemon juice on the nose- Jif lemons. Warm, appetising and juicy. There are powdery notes too, recalling lemon sherbet. This is aquatic, breezy and altogether nostalgic.

A 'lemon grove' experience on the palate: Whole lemons, with pith, rind, oils, pips... Zesty and tangy, with good balance between the elements. Fresh and intense now with great clarity of flavour, leading to a bitter finale as the quinine comes through and adds length on the finish.

Packaging claims: No artificial sweeteners, flavourings, colours or preservatives

Ingredients: Spring water, cane sugar, Lemon juice 3.7%, citric acid, natural flavours containing natural quinine

Price: Should be about £0.75 for a 200ml glass bottle (£3.00 for a 4 x 200ml pack), widely available

Fever-Tree Ginger Ale

This is a mid lemon yellow colour. The liquid is clear and bright, and the inital burst of carbonation soon settles down in the glass to reveal the familiar small bubbles now rising steadily.

Warm aromas of honey, lemon and discreet, freshly grated ginger. There is a lovely purity and depth on show here.

Light yet satisfying flavours, as some subtle gingers tickle the palate with a trace of pepper spice. This is fresh, biscuity and clean. The ginger here never escapes the leash, always held in check by some more determined caramel notes. Within the light structure one finds an excellent balance, and a clean finish that are the hallmarks of these mixers.

Packaging claims: No artificial sweeteners, flavourings, colours or preservatives

Ingredients: Spring water, cane sugar, citric acid, natural gingers, natural flavours, natural caramel

Price: Should be about £0.75 for a 200ml glass bottle (£3.00 for a 4 x 200ml pack), widely available

Fever-Tree Mixers Part 1

2010-08-03T14:27:00.015+01:00

Made by: Fevertree Ltd

Origin: UK

We were thinking of making a few long drinks to combat the muggy weather, which had us hunting the shelves for a mixer or two... This brought us to Fevertree, a company that since 2000 sought to create an Indian Tonic mixer from all-natural ingredients, including quinine (the bark extract of the Cinchona tree, colloquially known as the 'Fever Tree').

They launched their Tonic Water in 2005, and have since managed to redefine the mixer category by eschewing the use of artificial ingredients (using only natural sweeteners and flavourings, and avoiding preservatives), taking instead a qualitative approach to drink formulation and packaging. They have since grown their product range, and success in new markets followed and continues apace...

Fever-Tree Premium Indian Tonic Water

Fever-Tree tonic water is a bright, clear liquid. It exhibits a lively carbonation, with noticeably small bubbles rising steadily when the drink settles in the glass.

An attractive, fresh, delicate aroma of lemon icing on the nose, with that familiar dusting of icing sugar...

On the palate, fresh lemon citrus, with some supple acids producing a gentle tang. There is excellent balance here between the elements, as a stimulating lemony bitterness develops and persists on the finish.

A quality mixer that speaks for itself, with a unique texture and flavour profile, that avoids the cloying, salty nature associated with artificial sweetener and preservative use.

Packaging claims: Contains natural quinine, no artificial sweeteners, flavourings or preservatives

Ingredients: Spring water, cane sugar, citric acid, natural flavours, natural quinine

Price: Should be about £0.75 for a 200ml glass bottle (£3.00 for a 4 x 200ml pack), widely available

Fever-Tree Lemonade

Fever-Tree lemonade is a colourless, bright liquid. After the initial rush of carbonation, much smaller bubbles can be observed rising slowly through the liquid in the glass.

Fragrant, biscuity nose with sweet lemon. This is juicy, mouthwatering and with plenty of sun-warmed fruit.

A lemonade that is soft and round in the mouth, with warm, biscuity citrus flavours. Supple acids again producing a gentle tang on the short finish.

Packaging claims: Contains Sicilian lemons, no artificial sweeteners, flavourings or preservatives

Ingredients: Spring water, cane sugar, lemon juice 2.5%, citric acid, natural flavours

Price: Should be about £0.75 for a 200ml glass bottle (£3.00 for a 4 x 200ml pack), widely available

Fever-Tree Ginger Beer

Fever-Tree ginger beer is a cloudy, pale yellow colour that takes on a green hue when examined in the light. There is a fine sediment of ginger particles in suspension.

Instantly aromatic on the nose, with fresh ginger in abundance, and then some. There is an extraordinary scent here, earthy and distinctly spicy- cumin? Intoxicating stuff...

Be sure you're sitting down for this one! An intense rush on the palate, with a controlled explosion of deep, freshly grated ginger flavour, topped with lemon and black pepper seasoning. This is as peppery and fiery as you could want, with that entrancing and utterly unique spicy, earthy cumin note intact and almost musky now. Predictably long finish as the chilli and fire trail off, this remains clean and refreshing throughout.

A heady, entrancing experience; a one of a kind ginger beer that sets a stylish example.

Packaging claims: Contains natural gingers, contains natural sediment, no artificial sweeteners, flavourings or preservatives

Ingredients: Spring water, ginger extract, cane sugar, natural flavour, ascorbic acid

Price: Should be about £0.75 for a 200ml glass bottle (£3.00 for a 4 x 200ml pack), widely available

Vita Coco Coconut Water with Peach and Mango

2010-07-25T20:33:00.009+01:00

Made by: Paraipaba Agroindustrial Ltda. (for All Market Inc.)

Origin: Brazil

Imported into the UK by: All Market Europe Ltd

Vita Coco with Peach and Mango is a matt yellow colour. The drink is cloudy and still, and contains a fine puree of fruit floating in suspension. The colour fades to clear at the rim of the glass.

An odd lactic aroma on the nose reminds us of a calpis (fermented milk) drink. It manages to shake this off eventually and here you have peaches running the show, with a sliver of green mango skin in the background.

A different story on the palate, where the elements integrate and the coconut is allowed to breathe, just, between layers of peach. There is plenty of that soft, round texture that typifies these drinks, together with the sappy green freshness that prevents them from becoming too cloying. The whereabouts of the elusive Mango is hard to pin down here but is hardly missed. Short, clean finish.

Another useful addition to the Vita Coco stable. For those who like their coconut water on the fruitier side...

Packaging claims: Hydrate naturally, more electrolytes than leading sports drinks with 15 times the potassium, has more potassium than two bananas, 100% natural

Ingredients: Natural coconut water, mango puree, peach puree, ascorbic acid (Vitamin C)

Price: Should be about £1.70 for a 330ml Tetra Pack carton, available from Selfridges & Co and health food stores, and also online (eg www.aqua-amore.com)

Vita Coco Coconut Water with Pineapple

2010-07-25T18:08:00.009+01:00

Made by: Paraipaba Agroindustrial Ltda. (for All Market Inc.)

Origin: Brazil

Imported into the UK by: All Market Europe Ltd

The rising tide of interest in coconut water, the natural juice of young (green) coconuts, has become something of a media phenomenon in the USA of late, with Europe set to follow. Coconut water is already a well-established health and hydration drink in Asia, Central and South America. We decided to extend our research into the growing number of coconut water variants now available...

Vita Coco with Pineapple is a pale, off white colour with a matt orange hue. The drink is cloudy and still, and contains a fine puree of fruit floating in suspension. The colour fades to clear at the rim of the glass.

Now on the nose this really works. Scents of coconut and pineapple are complimentary and combine perfectly. Lazy ripe pineapple is given an edge here with the green sap of the coconut.

Hard to fault this on the palate also, there is none of the 'low tide' vegetative flavour encountered in the plain variant (bit.ly/bAYg7U). What you have is fresh, green, salty sweet young coconut and milky pineapple, in a soft, roundly textured duet. Short, clean finish.

A satisfying drink from Vita Coco, and a lesson in understatement.

Packaging claims: Hydrate naturally, more electrolytes than leading sports drinks with 15 times the potassium, has more potassium than two bananas, 100% natural, hydrate and feel good

Ingredients: Natural coconut water, pineapple puree, coconut puree, ascorbic acid (vitamin C)

Price: Should be about £1.70 for a 330ml Tetra Pack carton, available from Selfridges & Co and health food stores, and also online (eg www.aqua-amore.com)

Vitamin Water Essential Orange (c+calcium)

2010-06-18T17:18:00.010+01:00

Made by: Coca Cola Enterprises Ltd

Origin: UK

This Vitamin Water variant is a pale, matt orange colour. The colour fades out to a watery rim at the edge of the glass.

On the nose familiar, powdery aromas of effervescent Vitamin C tablets (Hailborange). More nostalgia follows with dilute orange squash, and we detected a lactic, milky scent that had us discussing calpis (fermented milk) drinks.

Light body and flavours on the palate with ripe citrus and an understated sourness, again with the delivery taking the direction of a calpis drink. There is a subtle chalkiness contributing a little texture to the experience, before the drink ends in a short finish.

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

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

Price: Should be about £1.30-£1.50 for a 500ml PET bottle, widely available including online (eg www.aquaamore.com)

Zico Coconut Water with Mango

2010-06-16T16:38:00.020+01:00

Made by: Zico Beverages LLC

Origin: USA

Imported into the UK by: Zico UK Ltd

Zico coconut water is a pale, off white colour. The drink is slightly cloudy and contains a small amount of fine coconut particles floating in suspension.

Ripe mango aromas on the nose, this is fruity with custard apple and creamy vanilla to follow. The aroma develops more tropical notes as it settles: Pineapple rings and tinned fruit salad, with a warm husky, nutty note.

This is much lighter on the palate than the nose would suggest, providing a delicate coconut flavour and salty-sweet balance. There is a faintly creamy texture, a little sweet fruit, and the suggestion of soft young coconut meat, before the drink ends in a short finish.

Packaging claims: Gluten free, only 60 calories, nature's sports drink, more potassium than a banana, zero fat, no added sugar, 5 essential electrolytes, low acidity

Ingredients: 100% natural coconut water, citric acid, natural mango flavour

Price: Should be about £1.70-£1.80 for a 330ml Tetrapak carton, available online (eg www.aquaamore.com) and at independent health food stores nationwide

Attitude Natural Energy Drink

2010-06-09T15:39:00.007+01:00

Made by: Energizer Brands Ltd

Origin: UK

This energy drink is a pale brown colour, slightly cloudy, translucent and with a warm pinkish hue to the colour. The colour fades to clear at the rim of the glass. When opened, the drink produces a creamy froth on the sufrace of the liquid caused by the small bubbles, and contains a fine sediment when poured out.

On the nose juicy aromas of barley sugar, soft strawberry candies (think of Chewit sweets) with plenty of vanilla. We also uncovered a fruit dessert theme: Ripe bananas, cream and brown sugar, with a top note of lemon citrus.

Light and fresh, the palate opens with fruity lemon flavours, moves through malty and grassy tones, followed by dried apple and vanilla. There are some spices giving a gentle pepper twist, a little citrus acidity and an unusual earthy flavour (reminds me of tea leaves).

This manages to take you on an interesting journey before the short finish...

Packaging claims: Turns you on naturally, rich in antioxidants, suitable for vegans, diebetic friendly, sweetened with low G.I. fruit, full of natural energy from active adaptogen (rhodiola rosea root 500mg), no caffeine, no taurine, no synthetic ingredients, no artificial flavours, sweeteners or preservatives, 50% of your vitamins RDA (Vitamin C, B1, B3, B5, B6, B9, B12)

Ingredients: Sparkling spring water, natural sweetness from fruits, lemon juice partially concentrated, natural fruit and yerba mate flavours, barley malt, ginger, lemongrass (all natural extracts)

Price: Should be about £1.00-£1.20 for a 330ml can, available from health food store chains and independents, and specialist food outlets nationwide

Simply Hibi- Hibiscus drink

2010-04-29T16:07:00.012+01:00

Made by: Ibis Organics

Origin: UK

The Roselle plant (Hibiscus Sabdariffa) is a variety of Hibiscus grown for its nutrient properties. It is consumed in a variety of different ways, however variants of a soft drink are most popular in the Caribbean, Mexico & Central America, Africa and Malaysia. Contrary to popular belief it's not the actual flowers or petals that are used to make drinks, but the calyces (flower casings) of the plant. When the calyx is ripe it turns a deep, bright red colour and is ready for use. The calyces are cored and then infused, and the colour, flavour and nutrients leach out. Hibiscus has started to generate increasing interest as part of a new group of 'superfoods', prized for their nutritional and especially antioxodant properties.

This drink is a deep maroon colour. The colour is intense, with plenty of purple highlights and becoming opaque at the core, like a young red wine.

Nosing this it is rich, sweet, earthy and with a distinct vegetable note. Here we have freshly crushed blackcurrants, leafy and with beetroot overtones, and steamed artichoke. There is also a little freshly turned earth (reminds me of a cabernet franc wine), and a twist of black pepper...

The palate is light, and dominated by sweet, juicy blackcurrants. In contrast with the aroma it contains few of those vegetable notes, with only a little leafy character and a rhubarb stem detected in the background. A gentle tartness develops, which has a pleasant 'mouthwatering' effect, before the drink ends in a short finish.

Packaging claims: Rich in Antioxidants

Ingredients: Hibiscus infusion 85% (Hibiscus and water), glucose-fructose syrup (15%)

Price: Should be about £1.40 for a 250ml PET bottle, available from Waitrose, Sainsbury's, Booths, Holland & Barrett and other health food and independent specialist outlets

the Berry Company Goji juice drink

2010-04-21T16:02:00.012+01:00

Made by: the berry juice company

Origin: UK

The Goji berry is the red berry fruit of the boxthorn shrub. It is also known as the Wolfberry, derived from the Greek origin for the plant Genus. The plant is a relative of the chili pepper, tobacco and deadly nightshade plants, and most commercial plantings are to be found in Northern China. In the past ten years Goji berries have started to generate increasing interest as part of a new group of 'superfruits', prized for their nutritional and especially antioxidant properties.

This Goji drink is pale burnt orange in colour, showing good intensity. It is cloudy/translucent and contains some fine fruit pulp in suspension.

On the nose rich, thick apricot puree, followed by more stone fruits: Mangoes this time. The sweet, fleshy aroma is given a 'lift' with a heady note of passionfruit.

The palate is lighter than the nose would suggest, with satisfying flavours that combine soft orange stone fruits (apricots and peaches) with their tropical cousins (mangoes and passionfruit).

The drink develops from an initial sweetness, akin to white grape juice, to turn pleasantly sour on the finish. The use of passionfruit comes into its own here, providing a tangy freshness and balancing out those sweeter notes. Another interesting release from the berry company.

Packaging claims: No artificial colours, no artificial preservatives, no sweeteners, in partnership with Heart Research UK

Ingredients: Water, pressed Wolfberry/Goji fruit (20%), fruit extract concentrate, pressed passion fruit juice (10%), natural flavour malic acid, antioxidant ascorbic acid

Price: Should be about £1.50-£1.60 for a 330ml PET bottle, available from Waitrose, Sainsbury's, Department stores and health retailers nationwide

Power Horse Sugar Free Energy Drink

2010-04-21T10:49:00.019+01:00

Made by: Power Horse Energy Drinks GmbH

Origin: Austria

Imported into the UK by: BTM International UK Ltd

For this review, we are pleased to welcome our guest reviewer Mr Matt Chambers. Matt, together with his wife Karen, is the esteemed founder of Whisky website and blog 'Whisky for Everyone', one of the preeminent influencers working in the world of Whisky today. Here is Matt's review:

Power Horse is an energy drink that is produced by the Austrian food and beverage giant S. Spitz Company. The company was at the forefront of the development of energy drinks in the early 1990s and the Power Horse brand first appeared in 1994. This makes Power Horse one of the first energy drinks on the market and it remains popular throughout mainland Europe. The S. Spitz Company was founded in 1857 and their headquarters are located in the city of Linz. The Power Horse energy drink range stimulates the drinker’s metabolism, responsiveness and is believed to enhance sporting performance. This is achieved by the inclusion of high levels of natural chemicals such as caffeine and taurine in the drinks

Another Austrian, named Dietrich Mateschitz, saw the potential of this genre of drinks and decided to develop his own energy drink. He based his new beverage on the Japanese caffeine based drink Lipovitan, which first appeared in the 1960s. Mateschitz named his new energy drink Red Bull and the rest is history, as they say. Red Bull has gone on to dominate the energy drink market since its launch in 1997, especially in the USA where it has almost 50% of the energy drink market share. The success of Red Bull and Power Horse has led to many copycat products appearing around the globe.

This drink is the SugarFree version of Power Horse. The colour is a vibrant golden yellow and the nose is sweet yet refreshing. There is a combination of vanilla, chewy fruit sweets and candy floss. Cutting through this is a distinct citrus note that is reminiscent of lemon zest and this helps balance the more obvious sweeter element.

On the palate, this is light, juicy and refreshing. There is an initial saltiness (think of brine or sweat), and while this may sound unappetising it is actually to the contrary. This characteristic combines with the zingy citrus zest from the nose to give a crisp, sharp and refreshing drink. The sweeter elements then begin to appear, especially those fruity chewy sweets (think of bubblegum or fruit pastilles) and the candy floss.

The palate ends with a feeling reminiscent to something like a cream soda. The finish is short yet refreshing with the fruitiness and citrus zing again prominent, although the citrus becomes a little more sour. At all points the elements remain slightly understated.

Whilst not being fully aware of the medical or scientific benefits or claims of this Power Horse SugarFree drink, all that can be said is that it is a clean, refreshing and crisp beverage. It is very pleasant and easy to drink and not as obviously sugary as some of its competitors. You can imagine drinking a can of this on a hot day or after doing some exercise.

Packaging claims: Low energy, sugar free special drink containing taurine and caffeine, with sweetening agents, contains 80mg of caffeine, not suitable for children, pregnant women, and people sensitive to caffeine, suitable for diabetics, do not mix with alcohol, high caffeine content (32mg/100ml), pasteurised

Ingredients: Water, acid (citric acid, sodium citrate), carbon dioxide, taurine 0.4%, glucuronolactone, colours (plain caramel, riboflavin), sweeteners Acesulfame K, Aspartame), flavouring, caffeine, inositol, vitamins (niacin, pantothenic acid, vitamin B6, vitamin B12)

Price: Should be about £0.70 for a 250ml can, available from larger branches of Tesco (world foods section)

Firefly Lemon, Lime & Ginger 'Detox'

2010-04-06T17:28:00.011+01:00

Made by: Firefly Tonics

Origin: UK

This non-sparkling 'detox' drink is a pale, matt lemon yellow colour. The colour fades out to clear at the rim. The liquid is slighty cloudy and contains some fine particles floating in suspension.

On the nose light but immediately attractive aromas: Sultanas, baked apple, crumble topping, lemon butter, sweet spices (ginger, cinnamon)...altogether appetising.

Flavours on the palate are light also, but satisfying and without the dilute quality found in many flavoured waters. That moreish style is replicated here, with flavours of softbake cookies (oat & sultana), more apple crumble topping, and gingerbread.

There is a lovely, zingy thread of citrus acidity running through this, balancing the sweetness perfectly. The heat of the ginger spice comes through late on the finish, bringing with it a pleasant warmth that coats the mouth and lingers. An entirely refreshing experience.

Packaging claims: Natural energy, detox, absolutely nothing artificial

Ingredients: Still water, fruit juices from concentrate: white grape (22%), lemon (4%), lime (3%), apple juice extract, botanical extratcs (ginger, nettle, dandelion, burdock, rosemary) 1%, natural flavourings

Price: Should be about £1.50-£1.60 for a 330ml glass bottle. Available from Waitrose, Holland & Barrett, Department stores, healthfood stores, and specialist food and delicatessen outlets nationwide.

Bundaberg Root Beer

2010-03-28T15:06:00.010+01:00

Made by: Bundaberg Brewed Drinks P/L

Origin: Australia

Imported into the UK by: Bundaberg Brewed Drinks UK Pty Ltd

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.

Bundaberg Root Beer is a dark chocolate brown colour, fading slightly at the rim of the glass. The drink is sparkling and as with other Bundaberg drinks, the bubbles here are very small and rise gradually to the surface from specific points in the glass (as with a fine sparkling wine). There are some small particles floating in suspension.

On the nose a reminder of the medicine cabinet, with a creamy menthol scent: Muscle rub ('Deep Heat' cream), plus notes of vanilla, treacle and malt extract.

Moving to the palate, the initial taste is of a herbal cola, with vanilla and creamy menthol, followed by dark sugary flavours (molasses, treacle, malt..). A refreshing bite evolves towards the finish, bringing grassy, salted caramel and leaving a trace of liquorice in the aftertaste.

There is a lovely restrained balance at work here, with supple, round flavours loaded with nuance, and just the right amount of bite to cleanse the palate.

As with other Bundaberg drinks, this is a real 'thinking man's' soft drink, whereby the quality of ingredients used allied to traditional production methods produce a captivating experience.

Packaging claims: Naturally brewed to be better, traditionally brewed, plus tbc

Ingredients: Carbonated water, cane sugar, sasparilla root, vanilla bean, ginger root, liquorice root, molasses, sasparilla flavour, caramel, acid (citric acid), yeast, preservatives (E211, E202), Antioxidant (E300)

Price: Should be about £1.40-£1.50 for a 340ml glass bottle, available from Waitrose and selected supermarkets, and specialist retailers

the Berry Company Acai juice drink

2010-02-28T16:30:00.011Z

Made by: the berry juice company

Origin: UK

The Acai berry is the fruit of the Acai palm tree, which grows in Central and South America, from Belize to Peru. The tree prefers wet, swampy ground. The global demand for Acai berry products (pulp, juice etc) has risen sharply since the 1990s, due to the fruit's beneficial levels of antioxidants derived from polyphenols (the tannic and colouring compounds that give the berries their flavour profile and dark purple appearance).

This Acai juice drink is a matt purple colour. The intense purple fades towards the rim of the glass where it picks up a tawny colour. There is a plentiful sediment of fine Acai and Raspberry fruit particles in suspension, giving the colour an opacity. An unusual clear film develops on the surface of this drink as it settles.

Nosing this is like holding your head over a bubbling pot of mixed berry jam: Blackberry, raspberry and blackcurrant all stirred together. The heady scent of the various fruits has an attractive, juicy quality. Raspberry dominates here, and has a fine syrupy edge. There is a leafy, earthy note that makes its presence felt (reminds me of blueberry).

On the palate the red fruit makes the running, with a soft, billowing raspberry flavour up first and showing that syrupy style. The black fruits follow in support with plenty of jammy fruit to complete the picture. The fruit pulp gives a light texture to the drink, with the balance falling on the sweeter side.

A light juice drink that manages to satisfy, and leaves a pleasant trace of concentrated fruit in the aftertase.

Packaging claims: No artificial colours, no artificial preservatives, no sweeteners, in partnership with Heart Research UK

Ingredients: Water, Acai fruit pulp (20%), fruit extract concentrate, pressed raspberries (10%), natural flavour, citric acid, antioxidant ascorbic acid

Price: Should be about £1.50-£1.60 for a 330ml PET bottle, available from Waitrose, Sainsbury's, Department stores and health retailers nationwide

San Pellegrino l'Aranciata Amara

2010-02-23T17:29:00.011Z

Made by: San Pellegrino SpA

Origin: Italy

Imported into the UK by: Nestle Waters UK Ltd

The San Pellegrino spring is located in the town of San Pellegrino Terme, North of Bergamo, in the province of Lombardy, Italy. The official spring water bottling company was formed in 1899, and diversified into sparkling soft drinks as early as 1932. An Amara or bitter version of the orangeade was launched in 1949, to mark the company's 50th Anniversary.

The Amara is an intense, matt orange colour with yellow highlights, fading out to a clear watery rim at the very edge of the glass. There is a fine sediment of orange fruit in suspension, and the drink is steadily sparkling when poured out.

The primary aromas on the nose are warm and juicy; here we have freshly sliced Navel oranges with a drop or two or Grand Marnier. As the drink opens up in the glass the impression is much fuller, one of whole oranges: Zest, flesh, pips, even leaves...a whole orange grove. A sharper note suggests grapefruit.

'Amara' translates as 'bitter', and on the palate this really delivers. From an initial burst of mouthfilling, ripe orange flavour with a fresh acidity, there follows a long, controlled transformation to bitterness. The zesty bitter taste sensation, derived in part from Quinine (Chinona tree bark extract), is similar to the experience of eating Kumquats.

There is a lovely flavour concentration here, entirely refreshing and helped no doubt by the high juice content at 15.6%.

Amara is a uniquely invigorating, enlivening drink, and leaves a mouthwatering sensation behind. Within the overall balance, the palate is both stimulated by the acidity levels (felt on the sides of the tongue), and by the extraordinary bitterness (felt at the back of the tongue). The long finish is to be savoured.

Packaging claims: New formula with 30% more orange juice, no preservatives, no artificial colourings

Ingredients: Water, orange juice (15.6%), glucose-fructose syrup, sugar, carbon dioxide, acidity regulator citric acid, natural aromas, Chinona extract

Price: Should be about £0.80-£0.90 for a 330ml can, available from Italian delicatessens, specialist retailers and online

Bundaberg Ginger Beer

2010-02-18T17:22:00.012Z

Made by: Bundaberg Brewed Drinks P/L

Origin: Australia

Imported into the UK by: Bundaberg Brewed Drinks UK Pty Ltd

Bundaberg Brewed Drinks have been making traditional soft drinks using natural ingredients since 1960. They are based in the town of Bundaberg, Queensland, Australia. Due to overwhelming popular demand we present our review of perhaps their most well known product, the Bundaberg Ginger Beer...

This is a pale, cloudy off white colour. When poured out the drink is gently sparkling, translucent and with a light yellow tint to the colour.

The aroma is fresh, up front and citrussy at first, with a distinct lemon barley theme. The warmth of ginger follows some way behind. This is quite subtle and restrained for a ginger based drink, appetising and with a moist gingercake sweetness.

On to the palate, where citrus flavours (lemon and orange) and the light-medium body make a fresh, fluid impression. The ginger notes arrive in fine understated style, with a controlled force, and without the raw burn or aggression found in some ginger beers.

There is a long finish to this, with rolling ginger now and a subdued pepper bite, recalling more sweet fruit than fiery spice. As with its stablemate, this is a soft drink that clearly demonstrates what can be done with a dedication to quality ingredients and deft handling.

Packaging claims: Naturally brewed to be better, always cloudy, full of real ginger pieces, traditionally brewed, the natural flavours of ginger

Ingredients: Carbonated water, cane sugar, ginger root, natural flavours, acid (citric acid), yeast, preservatives (E211, E202), antioxidant (E300)

Price: Should be about £1.40-£1.50 for a 340ml glass bottle, available from Waitrose and selected supermarkets, and specialist retailers

Vita Coco 100% pure Coconut Water

2010-02-15T17:10:00.005Z

Made by: Paraipaba Agroindustrial Ltda. (for All Market Inc.)

Origin: Brazil

Imported into the UK by: Marigold Health Foods Ltd

The rising tide of interest in coconut water, the natural juice of young (green) coconuts, has become something of a media phenomenon in the USA of late. Coconut Water is already a well-established health and hydration drink in Asia, Central and South America. We decided to find out what all the fuss is about...

Vita Coco is a pale, off white colour. The drink is still, translucent and contains a small amount of fine coconut particles floating in suspension.

The aromas on the nose are fairly challenging: Tropical fish tanks, warm pondweed, and a whiff of ripe Brie cheese all come to mind. There is something vegetal at work here, that carries a damp and 'closed' quality.

Moving to the taste, Vita Coco is at once fresh, softly textured, with a roundness on the palate and a delicate 'salty sweet' flavour. There is a nutty, green husk flavour next (reminds me of sugar cane or aloe vera) followed by a late burst of soft young coconut meat.

This drink has a long, satisfying aftertaste during which the experience takes shape, and the promise of having just drunk from a freshly opened coconut finally comes into focus.

Packaging claims: Like sticking a straw in a coconut, hydrate naturally, more electrolytes than leading sports drinks with 15 times the potassium, has more potassium than two bananas, 100% natural, the beauty of one ingredient

Ingredients: Natural Coconut Water

Price: Should be about £1.70 for a 330ml Tetra Pack carton, available from Selfridges & Co and health food stores

Bundaberg Lemon Lime & Bitters

2010-02-12T15:37:00.007Z

Made by: Bundaberg Brewed Drinks P/L

Origin: Australia

Imported into the UK by: Bundaberg Brewed Drinks UK Pty Ltd

This sparkling soft drink is a pale pink colour, clear and bright, with fine bubbles that rise steadily to the surface from various points in the glass.

On the nose a deep lime aroma: Key lime pie, dusted with allspice, plus notes of ginger and quinine. This is very appetising. As with many lemon & lime drinks, the lemon struggles to compete with its more delicate freshness.

On the palate a juicy and nicely concentrated lime flavour, followed by soft cinnamon. Persistent, mouthwatering and with a lovely tart balance...this is refreshing stuff. The bitters flavours add a spicy dimension: Cloved orange, ginger and quinine. They bring a light bitterness with them, perfectly balanced between the sugar and citrus. The cinnamon note that made an early appearance now lingers on the finish.

Packaging claims: Naturally brewed to be better, crafted from real lemons and limes, [naturally brewed] from real herbs and tropical spices

Ingredients: Carbonated water, cane sugar, lime juice from concentrate (6.3%), bitters brew (4.8%) (water, cane sugar, tropical spices, gentian root, yeast), lemon juice from concentrate (0.8%), acid (citric acid), antioxidant (E300), flavour, colour (E120), preservatives (E211, E220)

Price: Should be about £1.40-£1.50 for a 340ml glass bottle, available from Waitrose and selected supermarkets, and specialist retailers

Itsu Limeflower/ Zesty Orange Vitamin Water

2010-02-05T18:24:00.007Z

Made by: Made under license

Origin: UK

This still Itsu drink is a pale lemon yellow colour, with a light green hue. The colour fades to a clear watery rim around the edge of the glass.

The aromas are very light and fleeting, lead by a citrus note. There is a glimpse of acacia, a trace of honey...the impression is of a heavily diluted cordial.

This is confirmed on the palate, with flavours that are dilute and ephemeral, unable to express themselves before disappearing. There was only time to detect a warm grassy note and a drop of orange oil, before water washes the palate clean and the drink ends in a short finish.

Packaging claims: Vitamin enriched water, zero fat and less than 60 calories, contains 50% of your RDA (vitamin & minerals), suitable for vegetarians

Ingredients: Still water, fruit extract, citric acid, bitter orange peel infusion, limeflower infusion, natural flavouring, minerals (zinc citrate deydrate, potassium iodide), vitamins (C, B3, B5, B6, B12, folic acid), natural colour (safflower and carrot)

Price: £1.50 for a 500ml PET bottle, available from branches of Itsu across London

San Pellegrino Chino

2010-01-29T17:17:00.013Z

Made by: San Pellegrino SpA

Origin: Italy

Imported into the UK by: Nestle Waters UK Ltd

Chinotto is a sparkling Italian soft drink named after the small, bitter citrus fruit of the Myrtle-leaved orange tree. The tree is believed to have originated in China, hence the name. Today Chinotto fruit is mostly cultivated in Italy, where the peel extract is an essential ingredient in Italian Bitters ('Amari'); alcoholic liqueurs drunk either as a digestif or an aperitif. San Pellegrino claim to have formulated the first Chinotto soft drink in 1932, today marketed under the brand name of Chino.

Sparkling Chino is a dark chestnut brown colour, clear and intense. When poured out, fine pinhead bubbles can be observed rising from various points in the glass.

On the nose this is sweetly spiced and strikingly aromatic: Allspice, cloved orange, with rooty and woody scents all combining to create a spice cake impression.

Opening with a fruity caramel, cola flavour on the palate, a long and controlled progression of sweet to bitter follows. Flavours of spice cake and ginger at first, cassia and clove, then black cherry, fig and toffee. Subtle notes of liquorice and menthol emerge to add further points of interest along the gently bitter, persistent finish.

Chino is an absorbing taste experience, and a soft drink to really savour. If you like this or think this sounds appealing then look up our review of Bitter KAS.

Packaging claims: None

Ingredients: Water, glucose-fructose syrup, sugar, carbon dioxide, colour E150d, aromas, acidifier citric acid, chinotto extract, acidity regulator sodium citrate, salt, antioxidant L-ascorbic acid

Price: Should be about £1.00 for a 330ml can, available from specialist outlets like italian foodstores and delicatessens

V-Fresh Lemongrass drink with Basil seed

2010-01-11T13:31:00.006Z

Made by: V. Thai Food Product Co Ltd

Origin: Thailand

Imported into the UK by: Manning Impex Ltd

The strain of lemongrass that is most readily consumed in food and drink today is believed to have originated in Malaysia. As well as being a component of soft drink recipes, it is also drunk as a tea. Citral, a chemical component of lemongrass, has been shown to have significant anti-cancer properties. Basil seeds are often added to drinks and desserts in Thailand to add texture, like tapioca. The seeds become gelatinous when added to liquids.

This drink is a bright lemon yellow colour, with a greenish tint. It is non-sparkling, and contains a large number of black basil seeds in suspension.

On the nose a warm, mellow aroma of barley sugar and lemon jelly is inviting. The combination brings to mind sugar-dusted lemon travel sweets. Beneath this there lies a woody, earthy note of lemongrass sticks.

What follows on the palate is broadly consistent, with soft, warm flavours of lemon jelly mix and barley sugar. There is a light oiliness and that earthy, now grassy note stays in the frame. The basil seeds add a light texture (like tapioca pearls), with a bite similar to eating a Kiwi fruit. The drink ends in a short finish.

Packaging claims: No presevatives

Ingredients: Water, lemongrass (15%), basil seed (12.5%), fructose syrup, sugar, colour E102 & E133

Price: Should be about £0.75 for a 290ml glass bottle, available from specialist retaliers , and in and around Chinatown

Organic Sparkling Lemonade

2009-12-30T18:18:00.005Z

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

2009-12-10T14:55:00.009Z

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

2009-12-04T14:40:00.014Z

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

2009-10-28T15:59:00.010Z

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)

2009-10-15T16:31:00.017+01:00

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

2009-10-02T11:50:00.010+01:00

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

2009-09-24T16:17:00.017+01:00

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

2009-09-22T16:18:00.013+01:00

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

2009-09-16T14:06:00.011+01:00

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

2009-09-15T16:51:00.018+01:00

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

2009-09-08T16:31:00.010+01:00

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

2009-09-03T15:37:00.007+01:00

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

2009-09-01T16:41:00.012+01:00

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

2009-08-27T14:29:00.009+01:00

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

2009-08-26T17:05:00.015+01:00

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

2009-07-27T12:31:00.014+01:00

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

2009-07-22T14:48:00.013+01:00

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

2009-07-19T11:59:00.014+01:00

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

2009-07-08T12:32:00.020+01:00

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

2009-07-07T16:08:00.020+01:00

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

2009-07-04T11:09:00.014+01:00

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

2009-07-02T12:35:00.016+01:00

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

2009-06-26T14:54:00.008+01:00

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

2009-06-25T16:42:00.019+01:00

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

2009-06-23T16:37:00.012+01:00

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

2009-06-17T15:44:00.014+01:00

Made by: F & N Coca-Cola Pte Ltd

Origin: Singapore

Imported into the UK: Cadbury Schweppes plc

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

2009-06-10T20:29:00.006+01:00

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

2009-06-09T21:16:00.032+01:00

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

2009-06-07T19:08:00.011+01:00

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

2009-06-02T17:28:00.016+01:00

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

2009-05-31T15:04:00.006+01:00

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

2009-05-31T12:14:00.005+01:00

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’

2009-05-24T17:29:00.004+01:00

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’

2009-05-24T16:59:00.005+01:00

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

2009-05-20T13:29:00.003+01:00

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

2009-05-19T17:03:00.004+01:00

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

2009-05-18T19:29:00.004+01:00

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

2009-05-18T17:54:00.003+01:00

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

2009-05-18T17:19:00.003+01:00

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

2009-05-18T16:40:00.007+01:00

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

2009-05-18T16:09:00.003+01:00

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’

2009-05-18T13:44:00.003+01:00

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

2009-05-18T13:05:00.003+01:00

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

2009-05-18T11:56:00.010+01:00

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

2009-05-17T19:51:00.004+01:00

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