Crystal Pepsi: "You've Never Seen A Taste Like This!"
In the early 1990s, Pepsi attempted to join the clear-soda trend by introducing Crystal Pepsi. This product was advertised as a caffeine-free "clear alternative" to traditional colas and was marketed as being pure and healthy. Despite having a taste similar to regular Pepsi, Crystal Pepsi lacked the caramel color. It was reputedly less acidic and boasted a smooth, refreshing flavor.
"I still think it's the best idea I ever had, and the worst executed." - Pepsi Executive
Product Descriptions & Tutorial
Sweetener - Torani's Sugar Cane
If 3 oz seems like a considerable amount, that's because it is. A 20 oz Crystal Pepsi contains a staggering 69g of sugar. For the most authentic flavor, we recommend using cane syrup as your sweetener of choice. However, sugar-free options such as sucralose and stevia also work well.
Many carbonated sodas contain citric acid as an ingredient to give them a more enhanced and refreshing taste by providing a sour flavor that balances out the sweetness. Although Coca-Cola and Pepsi are similar, their distinct flavors are due to the varying amounts of citric acid used. Pepsi, which has a higher concentration of citric acid, boasts a more refreshing taste as the tartness helps to counterbalance the sweetness of the drink.
Lemon Extract - In our opinion, Pepsi has a more prominent citrus flavor, whereas Coke has a distinct vanilla-raisin taste. However, it's important to note that even a small amount of lemon can overpower the drink, so it's best to use it sparingly.
The "phosphated soda" held reign over soda fountains for more than 70 years, until it vanished in the late 1930s. One of the earliest acid phosphates available for purchase was Horsford's Acid Phosphate, which was initially marketed as a tonic.
Acid Phosphate provides a delightfully tangy and sour sensation that tingles on the tongue. Its unique combination of extra carbonation and dry tart flavor sets it apart from other soda acids, such as citric acid. Acid Phosphate is the perfect choice if you're seeking a pure sour taste without any lemon flavor.
Finding it can be a challenge, but we were able to acquire ours from Keg Works.
This flavor concentrate provides a classic cola taste that is distinct from Coke or Pepsi. While kola nuts may contribute to the flavor, the dominant notes are a blend of citrus, vanilla, and cinnamon.
Re-releases:
During the mid-2016 period, Crystal Pepsi was launched for a limited time in the United States and Canada. The promotion was accompanied by a throwback website and marketing video, which included The Crystal Pepsi Trail browser game as an authorized spoof of the legendary The Oregon Trail. This product was once again released for a limited time in 2018 and to commemorate its 30th anniversary in 2022. Interestingly, all of these re-releases were available exclusively in a 591 mL bottle.