Throughout all the stress of high school, nearly every student has, at some point, reached for an energy drink and pulled through an all-nighter. With the influx of new brands and new flavors, it’s difficult for some to pick a drink of choice. As of 2026 there have been many exciting new flavors from many popular brands such as, Monster, Ghost, and Alani. Other brands like Red Bull are re-releasing flavors or introducing new spring editions of popular drinks.
Personally, whenever I am in need of some extra energy, I will reach for a Monster, the second best selling energy drink closely following Red Bull. For most people, what makes a good energy drink is how much it doesn’t taste like one, but I chose Monster for the opposite reason. It distinctly tastes like an energy drink and it acts as a reminder that it is not something to consume casually. Despite the reputation for being unhealthy, I still find myself enjoying an ice cold Monster or even a classic Red Bull.
One of Monster’s biggest strengths is its massive product lineup. Monster has a very large product mix with 7 different drink lines including Originals, Ultra- zero sugar, Juice, Java (non-carbonated coffee drinks), Rehab (non-carbonated tea based energy drinks with electrolytes), Hydro (less energy boost and more hydration and electrolytes), and then Energy Nitro (nitrogen infused smooth texture drinks).
To better understand Monster’s appeal, I’ve gone out and purchased 6 different Monster energy drinks. Two of the most popular original drinks, two drinks I’ve never had before, and then two of my favorites. These are OG, White, Viking Berry, Pacific Punch, Ultra Paradise, and Strawberry Dreams. My goal with this layout is to evaluate not only the visual elements of the drink, but also the flavors and popular opinions.
Starting off with the original Monster and the Zero Sugar Monster–colloquially known as the White Monster. The two packages providing a visual contrast are being shown in their flavor profiles. Zero Sugar is not just the sugar free version of the original: it is its own complex drink. The OG has been said to taste like battery acid by a large amount of the public. It is also rejected because the liquid color closely resembles the color of urine or beer. On the contrary, the White Monster has a fruity citrusy flavor and a sunburnt murky yet angelic glow. In my personal opinion, between the two I rank the White Monster over the OG.
Moving on to two new flavors that I have never explored, the Pacific Punch and the Viking Berry are both a part of Monster’s juice line. There is a large similarity between the design of these two cans, both featuring detailed, colorful and artistic drawings that relate directly to the name and taste of the drink inside. Viking Berry very clearly is meant to represent the flavors of Nordic berries with strong notes of blackberry, black current, and blueberry. Expect a dark fruity tart taste from this drink. The Pacific Punch can is decorated in red white and blue along with a bald eagle and the phrase “death before dishonor.” The patriotic aura from the design really confused me. The drink itself tastes exactly like fruit punch, the kind that brings my head right back to a 10 year old’s birthday party. Its immature flavor contradicts with the typically older pallet of an energy drink consumer and one that would gravitate towards a bottle with this design. When comparing Pacific Punch and Viking Berry, I place Viking Berry higher and find it more enjoyable.
The last two flavors include my personal favorite and a highly recommended flavor: Ultra Paradise and Strawberry Dreams. The Paradise can is a silver island view on a green background; similarly the liquid is a shimmery green color that connects to the notes of kiwi, cucumber, and lime. Designed to really feel like an island paradise getaway, it is very light and airy with the slight sour taste. Strawberry Dreams tastes just like one would expect with a strawberry cloud design on the can. The creamy strawberry flavor pairs unexpectedly well with the tart and acidic aftertaste. I truly have a difficult time picking between them, but ultimately, the Paradise comes out on top with Strawberry Dreams closely behind.
While energy drinks are often treated as a normal part of high school culture, it is very important to understand and acknowledge that they should be consumed in moderation. This review is meant to explore the flavor, branding, and consumer appeal. Although energy drinks may enhance short term alertness, they are not a substitute for proper rest hydration, or nutrition.
