Soda nostalgia runs deep. As we sip on the latest flavors, it’s hard not to wonder about those classic beverages that have slipped through the cracks.
Remember the sodas that used to fill our fridges and parties? Some have vanished, leaving only memories of their unique tastes and vibrant branding.
Join us as we uncover ten forgotten American sodas that deserve a comeback. These iconic drinks once captivated our taste buds—let’s see if they can reclaim their spot in our hearts.
Shasta
“It has to be Shasta,” a phrase that harks back to a beloved soda brand with a long history. Since its inception in California in 1889, Shasta has wowed taste buds with over 30 flavors.
From classic cola and lemon-lime to unique options like chocolate cola and tiki punch, Shasta offered something for everyone. It became a staple of American culture, remembered fondly by those who grew up with it.
Though Shasta is still available today, its popularity has waned. Even so, it remains a nostalgic favorite.
TaB
Did you grow up drinking Tab? This Diet Cola was a favorite in the 60s and 70s, known for its distinctive pink cans.
Tab’s tangy cola and ginger ale flavors were a hit with health-conscious drinkers. Ads touted it as the modern woman’s drink, highlighting its slimming properties.
Though Tab was a Coca-Cola staple, it was discontinued in 2020. Many still remember it fondly and hope it might make a comeback.
Nehi
Nehi sodas were a staple in mid-20th-century American culture. Flavors like grape and orange delighted taste buds, and those distinctive glass bottles were hard to miss.
Many remember enjoying an ice-cold Nehi on a front porch or at a summer picnic. Its curvy bottles and classic logos made it a favorite in soda shops across the country.
Today, Nehi is part of the Dr. Pepper Group. While classic flavors like orange, grape, and peach are still available, their presence varies by region and bottler.
Bubble Up
“A kiss of lemon, a kiss of lime” was the tagline for Bubble Up, a classic lemon-lime soda in a glass bottle. It was a refreshing favorite for many Americans.
Introduced in the 1920s, Bubble Up never reached the heights of 7UP or Sprite. Its quirky name and bubbly character made it a unique choice for soda enthusiasts.
Now produced by the Dad’s Root Beer Company, Bubble Up still holds a special place for those who remember its green glass bottles and retro logos. It’s a nostalgic treat for those who grew up with it.
Hires Root Beer
Hires Root Beer is known as the original root beer, dating back to 1876. Its unique blend of roots, berries, and herbs set it apart.
This classic soda was a childhood favorite, especially when topped with a scoop of ice cream. It played a key role in shaping the root beer we enjoy today.
Though Hires Root Beer is no longer available, it was discontinued by the Dr. Pepper Snapple Group to focus on A&W, their more famous root beer brand.
Jolt Cola
Imagine it’s the 1980s, and Jolt Cola is the talk of the town. This soda packed a punch with extra caffeine and sugar, making it the go-to for a serious energy boost.
Jolt Cola came in flavors like cola, blue raspberry, and cherry bomb. Its commercials were memorable, featuring catchy jingles and vibrant visuals that showed people gaining instant energy.
The bright, flashy cans made Jolt Cola stand out on store shelves. It wasn’t just a drink; it was a way to power up for any adventure. Many fondly remember this soda from their mid-90s college days.
Crystal Pepsi
Let’s rewind to the early 1990s when Crystal Pepsi was the talk of the town. This soda was unique because it was completely clear, unlike any other drink at the time.
The commercials showcased its crystal-clear appearance and emphasized its refreshing taste. They often featured people amazed by how different and refreshing the soda was.
Crystal Pepsi’s clear bottles made it stand out even more. While it didn’t last long, it made a memorable impact on everyone who tried it.
Fresca
If you’re counting calories, Fresca is the soda to consider. Since the 1960s, it’s been known for its zesty citrus flavor.
Imagine sipping on a Fresca on a hot summer day—a burst of refreshing taste with zero calories. It’s the perfect guilt-free drink.
Fresca’s sleek, colorful cans and bottles added to its appeal. Though it’s still around, some say the taste has changed over time. Despite this, it remains a popular choice for a light, fizzy drink.
Rondo Premium
Have you ever tried Rondo Premium soda? In the 1970s, it was a favorite for those seeking a bold and flavorful drink.
Rondo Premium wasn’t your typical soda. It had a unique taste that really set it apart from others on the market.
This daring soda quickly became a hit and left a lasting impression. It’s no surprise that people still remember it fondly today.
Aspen
In the 1980s, Aspen soda became a popular choice for its crisp, refreshing taste. It offered a unique twist on the lemon-lime flavor with an apple taste.
Marketed as a cool mountain refreshment, Aspen aimed to deliver a distinctive flavor experience. Its fresh, apple-like taste set it apart from other sodas.
Unfortunately, Aspen didn’t stick around for long. PepsiCo discontinued it in 1982, and it faded from the soda scene.