Coca-Cola recently released a new limited edition flavor called Starlight Coke. This new soda has left many Coke fans wondering, what does Starlight Coke taste like? In this article, we’ll explore the mysterious new flavor and try to answer that question.
What is Starlight Coke?
Starlight Coke is a limited edition Coke flavor that was released in 2022. It has a mysterious, space-themed marketing campaign with a galaxy colored can. The can describes the flavor as having “notes reminiscent of stargazing around a campfire, as well as a cooling sensation that evokes the feeling of a cold journey to space.”
Beyond those fanciful descriptions, Coca-Cola has not revealed the actual flavor. They simply describe it as having “notes of space.” This secretive approach has sparked lots of curiosity and debate about what Starlight Coke tastes like.
When and where was Starlight Coke released?
Starlight Coke was first released in the United States in February 2022 for a limited time. It was brought back again in July 2022 due to popular demand. It is currently available in the US and Canada for a limited time while supplies last.
The limited nature of Starlight Coke has added to the hype and mystery around the flavor. Fans are interested in trying it before supplies run out.
What are the main flavor theories?
In the absence of an official flavor description from Coca-Cola, Coke fans have come up with their own theories about what Starlight Coke tastes like:
- Cotton candy – Many think it has a sweet cotton candy flavor.
- Cherry vanilla – Some detect notes of cherry and vanilla.
- Red berries – Others pick up hints of strawberry, raspberry, cherry, etc.
- Tropical fruits – Flavors like mango, pineapple and citrus have been suggested.
- Marshmallow – A sweet marshmallow or s’mores-like flavor is another popular theory.
Coke has hinted that the flavor is inspired by space, leading to cosmic flavor guesses like Sugar Stars, Moon Mist, and Rocket Fuel.
What does Starlight Coke actually taste like?
So what does Starlight Coke really taste like amid all the speculation and mystery? Here is a run down of the actual taste according to Coke fans and reviews:
It has a berry flavor
The most common flavor note detected in Starlight Coke is berries. The overall taste is described as a berry medley, berry soda, or a mixture of berry flavors like strawberry, raspberry, cherry, and blueberry.
The berry taste is light, not overly sweet
While Starlight Coke contains berry flavors, the berry taste is reportedly quite subtle and restrained. It is not intensely sweet or sour. The flavoring provides just a hint of mixed berries.
It has a less acidic taste than regular Coke
Many reviews note that Starlight Coke is less acidic tasting than regular Coca-Cola. It seems to have a smoother, less harsh soda taste.
It has a cool, creamy texture
Some reviews mention that Starlight Coke has a creamy, cooling mouthfeel. This may come from subtle vanilla flavors contributing a smooth, creamy soda texture.
The aftertaste is like cotton candy
Once the initial berry taste fades, many notice a sweet cotton candy-like aftertaste. There is lingering sweetness reminiscent of cotton candy or candy floss.
It tastes like regular Coke with a twist
Underneath the special berry flavoring, Starlight Coke still tastes fundamentally like a Coca-Cola soda. It has familiar Coke flavors with a fun new berry twist.
| Reviewer | Starlight Coke Flavor Description |
|---|---|
| @sodafan | Subtle mix of berries – strawberry and raspberry come through clearest for me. |
| @cokeconnoisseur | Berry medley with cotton candy aftertaste. Fun new flavor! |
| @MidwestEmma | Tastes like Coke with a blast of mixed berry flavor added. Not too sweet. |
How does Starlight Coke compare to previous limited flavors?
Coke has released many limited edition flavors over the years. How does Starlight compare to some of the more recent limited runs? Here’s a quick flavor comparison:
Less citrusy than Orange Vanilla Coke
Orange Vanilla Coke focused on bright, citrusy orange flavors. Starlight has a completely different berry taste profile.
Less creamy than Cinnamon Coke
Cinnamon Coke had a robust cinnamon flavor with a creamy taste. Starlight has just a hint of creaminess from vanilla.
Less baked than Red Velvet Coke
Red Velvet Coke highlighted rich chocolate and cake flavors. Starlight is lighter and fruitier.
Less intense than Cherry Vanilla Coke
Cherry Vanilla Coke combined intense cherry and vanilla flavors. Starlight’s berry and vanilla notes are more restrained.
While it shares some flavor elements with past limited releases, Starlight Coke ultimately has its own unique taste profile centered around berries and cotton candy sweetness.
What’s the verdict on Starlight Coke?
Now that it’s available for tasting, what’s the consensus so far on Coca-Cola’s mysterious Starlight Coke flavor?
Most find it tasty
The initial verdict is that most people enjoy the new Starlight Coke flavor. They find the subtle berry taste refreshing and fun. It provides a new way to enjoy classic Coke.
It has wide appeal
Early reviews indicate Starlight Coke seems accessible and appealing to many different Coke drinkers. Its light berry flavor profile works whether you usually prefer regular or diet Coke.
Fans want it to stick around
Many Coke fans are hoping Starlight sticks around past its limited-edition status. They think it could work well as a permanent addition to the Coke flavor lineup.
The mystery adds appeal
The secrecy around the flavor has built extra anticipation and excitement around Starlight Coke. The fun mystery component has driven interest and conversation.
It makes a good novelty gift
The space theme and limited availability have also made Starlight Coke a hot gift and collectible item so far. Fans are stocking up on it while they can.
Overall, the unprecedented taste of cosmic Starlight has been a hit with Coke fans. It provides an intriguing new flavor experience from a classic brand.
The bottom line on the taste
So what’s the bottom line answer on what Starlight Coke tastes like? Based on reviews and expert tasting, these seem to be the definitive flavor notes:
- A berry medley flavor, especially strawberry, raspberry, and cherry
- Subtle, not overly sweet berry taste
- Hints of vanilla contribute slight creaminess
- Less acidic than regular Coke
- Cotton candy-like sweetness in the aftertaste
- Fundamentally still tastes like a Coca-Cola
Starlight Coke offers a new spin on a classic with its cosmic berry flavors. Fans seem thrilled with this mysteriously delicious new addition to the Coke universe.