Mexico boasts a vibrant soda culture that extends far beyond the well-known Mexican Coke. While American soda selections are vast, Mexican Sodas offer unique and exciting flavors like tamarind, sangría, and hibiscus. These beverages often utilize cane sugar instead of high fructose corn syrup, although rising costs have led some producers to switch. While not all Mexican sodas are available in the US, local taco trucks, Latin markets, and even some supermarket Latin food aisles hold hidden gems. This guide explores seven must-try Mexican sodas.
Jarritos: The King of Mexican Sodas
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Jarritos, meaning “little pots,” is the top-selling Mexican soda in the US. Its brightly colored glass bottles and diverse flavors, including guava and mango, make it a standout. While generally sweet, the tart tamarind and intensely flavored hibiscus (Jamaica) varieties are especially refreshing.
Mundet: The Classic Apple Soda
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Mundet, founded in 1902, is known for its apple soda. While containing less than 1% real apple juice, the Sidral (red apple) variety offers a surprisingly authentic apple cider flavor. Often found at taco carts, it pairs perfectly with savory tacos. The less common Manzana Verde (green apple) is harder to find in the US.
Lift: The Candy Apple Soda
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Manzana Lift, a Coca-Cola product, is a Mexican apple soda with a distinct Jolly Rancher candy flavor. Its lighter body and bright acidity make it a good complement to rich, fatty foods. Though harder to find in the US, its larger 500 mL bottles offer excellent value.
Sol: Another Apple Contender and Tamarind Delight
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PepsiCo’s Sol line offers Manzanita Sol, a well-balanced apple soda with sweet and tart notes. Its growing popularity has led to its inclusion in some Taco Bell locations. Tamarindo Sol, with its earthy, sweet, and sour profile, is another noteworthy option.
Topo Sabores: The Classic Orange Soda
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Topo Sabores offers a range of brightly colored, sweet sodas. The orange flavor stands out, providing a classic orange soda experience without excessive sweetness.
Sangría Señorial: A Unique Fruit Blend
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Sangría Señorial is a distinctive non-alcoholic beverage resembling a sweet, fruit-flavored wine cooler. Its grape and cherry notes are enhanced with a squeeze of lemon or lime.
Mexican Coke: The Cane Sugar Cult Favorite
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Mexican Coke, known for its use of cane sugar, enjoys a devoted following. While some debate exists about taste differences compared to American Coke, and the prevalence of cane sugar in all Mexican Coke, its unique flavor profile remains popular and widely available.
