Ouzon Soda

Product Type:Carbonated Soft Drink: Regular; Container: 12 oz glass
BevNET Review: Ouzon was created under the premise that great Greek food deserves a great Greek soda. And what better way to do than that to create a non-alcoholic version of ouzo, the popular Greek aperitif, right? If that's what they are going for Ouzon has certainly hit the nail on the head, with a very accurate and fitting translation of the anise flavored liquor. Really, it's a very nice tasting product, with a clean sugar sweetened formulation that has a very minimalist feeling in your mouth. Not too strong, not too sweet, and very smooth. The clear colored liquid is definitely something that's enjoyable whether you like ouzo or not — it drinks like a cousin to birch beer. However, the positioning of this product as a non-alcoholic ouzo flavored soda seems like a big mistake — and the graphic execution of the label needs some serious work. While we see nothing wrong with having a Greek themed or inspired product, selling the product as a non-alcoholic version of ouzo seems extremely limiting and, to those who don't consume ouzo on a regular basis, unappealing. What's inside this bottle is enjoyable, whether you are in the mood for Greek food or not — so figuring out a way to position this as a great tasting premium soft drink would expand its potential. Also, we don't like the name. Aside from sounding unoriginal, the sound "ooze" is not exactly something that whets the appetite. Lastly, they need to add a nutrition panel on the label — it won't get too far without that. Overall, what's inside the bottle is actually quite original and enjoyable, but the branding and positioning are going to hold this product back big time.Reviewed on: 11/1/2010