MaSo

Product Type:Carbonated Soft Drink: Regular; Container: 8.45 oz can
BevNET Review: Using under ten ingredients, the "Original" variety of MaSo is a pretty easy flavor to dissect. The first thing that hits your palate is the lightly carbonated, moderately sweetened base of the drink, followed by the slightly creamy skim milk that provides the product's distinctive flavor. While the product claims to be a "truly original soda experience," this isn't the first time that a carbonated milk product has been imported from Asia. MaSo tastes very similar to what we remember of previous entries and the execution of the product's formulation appears to be strong. However, previous entries ultimately struggled from high cost of import and challenges selling something with an unfamiliar flavor. In the case of MaSo, those challenges will likely be the same, especially with the drink's choice of branding. First, the product's modern look feels technical in nature, which will likely appeal to an adult consumer. However, the formulation, which is rather sweet, will likely appeal to a younger demographic, so it seems a bit inconsistent. More important, they've put "A gumbay beverage" under the product's name, which would lead us to believe that's a descriptor of the product, when in fact it's the name of the company. Further on that point, there's no description of what the product actually is, relying on the consumer to take a complete gamble on this product. Overall, good execution inside the can, but, due to its unfamiliar flavor and choice of branding, this product is going to be a tough sell.Reviewed on: 11/4/2008

Product Type:Carbonated Soft Drink: Regular; Container: 8.45 oz can
BevNET Review: We preferred the Orange variety of MaSo over the Original, both in terms of flavor and branding. First, the addition of orange flavor adds a new dimension of taste to the beverage, resulting in the familiar orange creamsicle flavor. It's actually a rather enjoyable one, with more creamy flavor than other efforts that don't use milk. On the outside, we still think the look is technical and that the "a gumbay beverage" will confuse consumers, but the addition of "orange" should help whet the consumer's appetite a bit. Still, using "orange" doesn't tell the full story of the drink, so adding something about the dairy or the intended benefits would greatly improve the product's chances for success. Overall, we enjoyed the taste, but the concept definitely needs refinement. Reviewed on: 11/4/2008