Review: Sugar Free Mandarina (2013)

Golazo’s Sugar Free Mandarina is an orange-flavored energy drink that is sweetened with a blend of erythritol and stevia (hence the “all natural” tag). In terms of Golazo’s energy drink lineup, this is definitely one of the most enjoyable varieties, both because of its pleasing flavor and 10 calories per can. The orange flavor is spot on, drinking almost like a classic orange soda but with a slight bite to the finish. The stevia and erythritol do a nice job of providing a natural sweetness and, aside from a mild note at the finish, they otherwise stay out of the way. Functionally, the product has 100mg of caffeine per 12 ounce can along with added electrolytes for hydration. Given the product’s soccer theme, we think that this combination makes sense. Speaking of the soccer theme, the brand feels a bit more mature now that they’ve filled in additional SKUs and a hydration line. As for the design of this particular flavor, we like the Golazo logo and tagline, although it doesn’t pop quite as much as it does in its standard green color. But if there’s anything that we’d change about this can, it would be the amount of real estate that’s used for the top band (where “All Natural” and “Mandarina” currently exist). Otherwise, we think that this is a credible and well-executed package. Overall, Golazo did a very nice job with this product -- it’s definitely our favorite flavor of the company's sugar-free lineup.

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