Coca-Cola has introduced dozens of new soda flavors over the years, including some pretty far-out creations. Recent releases have included soft drinks inspired by dreams, outer space, and a popular video game.
Another was partly designed by artificial intelligence. While certainly creative, many of these are limited-time offerings that probably do more to generate buzz than quench thirst.
Coke's newest product, however, seems a little more down-to-earth, and the company even describes it as a "permanent" addition to its lineup—the brand's first such soda with staying power in more than three years.
It's called Coca-Cola Spiced, and while it sounds like a soft drink infused with fiery chili peppers, the beverage itself is actually a fairly subtle new spin on the classic cola.
The soda giant unveiled its new flavor on Tuesday night at an exclusive tasting event in New York City, where guests, including myself, sampled both regular and sugarless varieties of the debut soft drink.
"It's a very complex flavor profile," said Sue Lynne Cha, vice president of marketing, Coca-Cola Trademark-North America, during a presentation on the new beverage and other initiatives. "
It really starts with a refreshing version of raspberry, which is combined with our iconic alma mater formula and then it really ends with a warm spice.
Consumers can expect many more new soda varieties to come. Since opening its Coca-Cola Creations division two years ago, the company has been churning out new drinks faster than ever before, putting out a total of eight new products in that time.