I recently received this new flavor in the mail from Influenster, it’s pretty good as long as it’s cold, cause it doesn’t taste as good if you like your sodas room temperature like me 😂 I would give this a 6 of 10
2025/3/26 Edited to
... Read moreAfter trying the new Sunkist Strawberry Orange soda, I wanted to dive a bit deeper into what makes this 'flavor twist on Berry and Citrus' stand out, or not. When I first saw the Sunkist Strawberry Orange soda box, I was instantly intrigued by the vibrant imagery and the promise of a 'mix of sweet strawberry and tart citrus.' As someone who enjoys fruit-flavored sodas, I had high hopes for this new addition to the Sunkist lineup, especially since Sunkist has a reputation for delivering strong, enjoyable fruit flavors.
My initial review mentioned it’s best served cold, and I can't stress that enough. When thoroughly chilled, the sweet strawberry notes are crisp and genuinely refreshing, perfectly balanced by a subtle, tangy orange undertone. It’s a bright, effervescent experience that truly delivers on the "berry and citrus" promise. The carbonation feels livelier, and the flavors are distinct without being overly syrupy or artificial. You get a clear sense of both fruits, with the strawberry leading the dance. However, the moment it warms up, even slightly, the magic fades considerably. At room temperature, the sweetness becomes almost cloying, and the citrus notes recede significantly, leaving a somewhat flat and overly sugary taste. It loses its refreshing quality entirely, which is a common issue with some fruit sodas but particularly noticeable here. It almost tastes like a different, less appealing drink when not ice-cold.
Comparing it to other Sunkist offerings, this Strawberry Orange flavor carves out its own distinct niche. It’s noticeably less intensely sweet than Sunkist Fruit Punch, which often leans heavily into a candied, almost syrupy fruit profile. If you're a fan of a lighter touch, this might be more up your alley. It also differs significantly from the classic Sunkist Orange Soda, which has a distinct, bold, and almost nostalgic orange taste that’s hard to beat for traditionalists. The Strawberry Orange offers a different kind of citrus experience, softened by the berry. If you've tried Sunkist Raspberry Blood Orange, this new flavor is softer, less complex, and arguably more universally approachable. The raspberry blood orange has a deeper, slightly more sophisticated berry note with a hint of tartness, whereas the Strawberry Orange is more straightforwardly summery and bright. While I haven't personally tasted the Sunkist Pina Colada soda, I imagine the Strawberry Orange is far less creamy and much more purely fruit-forward, focusing on a clear, clean fruit taste.
What I appreciate about this particular Sunkist flavor is its potential as a delightful mixer or as a standalone treat on a very hot day. It’s not quite as iconic or impactful as the original Sunkist Orange soda can, but for those who enjoy a lighter, fruitier soda experience, especially fans of strawberry, it’s definitely worth a try – provided you keep it ice cold! The 'mix of sweet strawberry and tart citrus' is genuinely pleasant and invigorating when enjoyed at its optimal temperature. It’s a fun, seasonal-feeling drink that could be a hit at summer gatherings or just for a personal cool-down moment. My 6/10 rating primarily reflects its specific temperature requirement; if it managed to maintain its delicious profile even when slightly warm, it would undoubtedly score much higher. However, for a perfectly chilled, refreshing sip, it offers a delightful and innovative twist on familiar fruit soda flavors, making it a noteworthy addition to the Sunkist family.