Exploring the World of Cola Drinks in the UK

Cola is one of the most iconic soft drinks globally, and the UK is no exception when it comes to its love for this fizzy favourite. While the term “cola” often conjures images of major international brands, the UK market offers a delightful variety of cola drinks that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. 

Let’s take a closer look at the different types of cola drinks available in the UK.

1. Classic Colas

Classic colas are the most widely recognised and consumed type of cola. These drinks typically feature a sweet, caramelised flavour with a hint of spice and citrus. The leading brands in this category include:

Coca-Cola: A household name, Coca-Cola offers its classic original formula, as well as variants like Diet Coke and Coca-Cola Zero Sugar.

Pepsi: Another global favourite, Pepsi is known for its slightly sweeter taste compared to Coca-Cola. The brand also offers Pepsi Max and Diet Pepsi as low-sugar options.

2. Craft and Artisan Colas

For those seeking something a bit different, the UK boasts a growing market for craft and artisan colas. These drinks are often made with natural ingredients, unique flavour profiles, and less sugar. Notable examples include:

Fentimans Curiosity Cola: A botanically brewed cola with a complex, slightly spiced flavour.

Dalston’s Cola: Made with real cola nut extract and natural ingredients, this London-based brand offers a refreshing alternative.

3. Sugar-Free and Low-Calorie Options, caffeine free colas

With increasing awareness of health and wellness, sugar-free and low-calorie colas have become highly popular. These options provide the same cola experience without the added sugar:

Coca-Cola Zero Sugar: A sugar-free version of the classic Coca-Cola taste.

Pepsi Max: Known for its bold taste and zero sugar.

Caffeine free colas are now available.

Virgin Cola Zero: A lesser-known but noteworthy choice in the UK market.

4. Flavoured Colas

Flavoured colas add a twist to the traditional cola base by incorporating additional flavours such as cherry, vanilla, or lime. These variations appeal to those who enjoy experimenting with their soft drinks:

Cherry Coke: A popular variant with a sweet cherry flavour.

Pepsi Wild Cherry: Pepsi’s take on the cherry-flavoured cola.

Vanilla Coke: A creamy and smooth twist on the classic cola taste.

5. Diet and Niche Colas

Beyond mainstream and craft options, the UK market also caters to niche preferences, including organic and vegan-friendly colas:

Whole Earth Organic Cola: An organic cola made with natural ingredients and no artificial sweeteners.

Karma Cola: A fair-trade and organic cola that supports ethical sourcing and sustainability.

6. Own-Brand Colas

Supermarkets across the UK offer their own cola drinks, often at a more affordable price point. While these might lack the brand prestige of larger names, they’re a practical choice for many households:

Tesco Cola: Available in regular, diet, and sugar-free versions.

Sainsbury’s Cola: Known for its balanced flavour and budget-friendly pricing.

Aldi’s Vive Cola: A popular choice among bargain hunters.

Morrison's Cola: Another option to consider

Lidl: Freeway Colas, with or without sugar are another bargain drink.

Final Thoughts

The cola market in the UK is as diverse as it is vibrant. From classic global brands to craft beverages and niche options, there’s a cola for everyone. 

Whether you’re a fan of the timeless classics or eager to try something new and innovative, the UK’s cola offerings ensure you’ll never run out of choices. So why not explore the fizzy world of cola and discover your new favourite today?

RC Cola Reinvent Traditional Ice Cream Float with a Festive Twist

RC® (Royal Crown) cola unveils tasty treat in time for Christmas

With Christmas fast approaching, RC® Cola has teamed up with mixology expert Alastair Tatton to craft a celebratory cocktail to toast the festive season.

Inspired by RC® Cola’s American roots, the ‘Really Christmassy Cocktail’ is a festive take on the iconic ice cream float which has tempted tastebuds across the pond since 1874.

Sundeep Gill, assistant brand manager for Cott Beverages Ltd. who launched RC® Cola in the UK, said, “Just like the ice cream float, RC® Cola has been at the heart of America for over a century. With an alcoholic and non-alcoholic version, this spiced-up version of an old-fashioned treat is perfect for anyone wanting to indulge themselves this Christmas. The kids could even leave one out for Santa!”

If you fancy trying to create your own RC® ‘Really Christmassy Cocktail’, simply follow Alastair’s step-by-step recipe:

RC® Really Christmassy Cocktail (Please enjoy responsibly. Not suitable for persons under the age of 18)

Ingredients:

12.5mls Kahlua

37.5 mls cinnamon-infused vodka

150 mls RC Cola

2 scoops of vanilla ice cream

Ice:

Cubed

Garnish:

2 cinnamon sticks

2 cherries

Method:

Infused the vodka with cinnamon sticks by leaving the cinnamon in the vodka for 4 days

Fill a tall glass with ice and add all the ingredients apart from the ice cream putting the RC Cola in last. Add the ice cream scoops at the top and garnish with the cinnamon sticks and cherries.

For those interested in a non-alcoholic version, simply follow the same method, with the below ingredients:

Virgin RC® Really Christmassy Cocktail

Ingredients:

Pinch ground cinnamon

150 mls RC Cola

2 scoops of vanilla ice cream

Ice:

Cubed

Garnish:

2 cinnamon sticks

2 cherries

Method:

Fill the tall glass with ice and add all the ingredients apart from the ice cream putting the RC Cola in last. Add the ice cream scoops at the top and garnish with the cinnamon sticks and cherries.

Created in 1905, RC® cola is one of America’s original colas and is already available across the globe in over 60 countries. Launched in the UK by Cott Beverages Ltd. and available exclusively in Asda stores nationwide, just visit www.rccola.co.uk for your local stockist.

Royal Crown cola is now on sale in the UK

I have heard of Royal Crown cola from American friends who rate it very highly and who were puzzled as to why they couldn't get it in the UK.

Thankfully, Royal Crown cola (RC® cola) has just been launched in the UK, offering kids and adults alike a great cola alternative for summer gatherings and barbecue parties this summer!

Royal Crown cola was born out of the efforts of a young pharmacist in Columbus, Georgia; Claude A. Hatcher began creating his own soft drinks and the results of his experiments would became the iconic American soft drink RC cola.

Created back in 1905, RC® cola is one of America’s original colas and is already available across the globe in over 45 countries and is now available in Asda stores nationwide - just visit www.rccola.co.uk for your local stockist.

A 2 litre bottle of RC cola retails at £1.28, while the 6 x 330ml multi-packs retails at £1.87.

(EDITOR: Now all I need is a local stockist of Root Beer, too and I'll be very pleased!)