But the heart of the Red Bull universe is the energy drink, and it’s one of those “love it or hate it” products. Some people can’t get enough of the different red bull flavors, while others love to criticize the shockingly sweet and chemical-laden taste. (Of course, some devotees say they love it precisely because of that distinctive taste.) The drink originally launched in the ’80s with a single, now-iconic flavor, but over the years the company has expanded the flavor offerings, mainly in the form of Red Bull Editions, along with some sugar-free and no-calorie variations. These special varieties are often released on a seasonal or limited-time basis. Although all have that unmistakable Red Bull taste as a foundation, they are accentuated by additional flavors that make each variation distinct enough to generate their own individual groups of fans or haters. Here are our picks for the best Red Bull flavors, both new and timeless. Note that some of these flavors may have been discontinued or may only be available in certain areas/countries or during limited periods, so you may need to order them from a specialty merchant or overseas distributor if you can find them at all. Here at Parade.com, we’re all about sharing products we love with our audience. When you make a purchase on an item seen on this page, we may earn a commission, however, all picks are independently chosen unless otherwise mentioned.
Best Red Bull Flavors
Red Bull Simply Cola (original version)
Anything that’s rare or hard to find tends to have a certain cache, and that seems to be true for the original version of Red Bull Simply Cola. It hasn’t been distributed in the United States in more than a decade, so the only way to get your hands on a can now is to order it from Austria. But this is something you will certainly enjoy if you like the taste of cola and want an energy drink with a similar flavor.
Red Bull Organics Simply Cola
Red Bull’s second cola variety was introduced a few years ago as part of the company’s Organics line of organic sodas. It combines the taste of cola, the boost of an energy drink, and the benefit of organic ingredients. Like the rest of the Organics line, it seems to be no longer available in the United States.
Red Bull Winter Edition: Fig Apple
Red Bull just began rolling out its latest new special edition, Fig Apple, which is described as having “notes of sweet apple, a hint of fig and caramel, and a crisp, wintry finish.” While it is too soon to gauge consumer reaction since few people have had a chance to taste it, this flavor will stand out if for no other reason than because it is apparently the only fig-flavored energy drink on the mainstream market.
Red Bull Coconut Edition Sugarfree
In what was likely a strategy to try and cover up the taste of artificial sweetener, Red Bull introduced an assortment of flavored sugar-free varieties, although several have since been discontinued. This Coconut Berry variety—which some reviewers have deemed the best of the sugar-free flavors—is still available, although it can be hard to find in some areas.
Red Bull Sugarfree
Although this Red Bull variety doesn’t have sugar, it does contain Aspartame and Acesulfame-Potassium instead—so be aware of that if you are sensitive to either of those ingredients or prefer to avoid these sugar substitutes. The taste is probably similar to what you would expect, explaining why this isn’t one of the line’s most popular flavors. However, it may be your best option if you want to enjoy a Red Bull while also avoiding sugar.
Red Bull Blue Edition: Blueberry
The stronger fruit flavors in the Red Bull arsenal seem to be a way for the company to offer something to appeal to those who really aren’t fans of the drink’s original taste. This strategy often translates to adding large quantities of artificial flavors and other chemicals—which can be off-putting to many people. This blueberry variety definitely has that “artificial blueberry” flavor, which will be a hit with those who like blueberry candy. If you don’t have a high tolerance for highly sweet drinks, though, you might want to skip this one.
Red Bull Original
Your feelings about the original Red Bull flavor depend in large part on how long you’ve been a fan of the energy drink. If you jumped on the Red Bull train in the early days, you likely find the iconic, unaltered flavor familiar and comfortable. Many diehard Red Bull devotees are loyal to the original variety and feel it’s unnecessary to camouflage that taste with a bunch of chemicals and flavorings.
Red Bull Green Edition: Dragon Fruit
Red Bull describes this dragon fruit flavor as “exotic.” While that might sound a bit fancy, the taste does seem to be a hit with many who give it an enthusiastic thumbs up. One reviewer noted that this will especially appeal to those who liked the now-discontinued Kiwi Apple flavor, while another reported that it is “great over crushed ice after a dinner party.”
Red Bull Peach Edition: Peach Nectarine
Needless to say, this Peach Nectarine variety of Red Bull will be most likely to appeal to those who enjoy either of those fruit flavors. But it’s also worth trying if you’re looking for a Red Bull option that isn’t quite so excessive on the sweetness scale as some varieties. You get a crisp, refreshing taste that is satisfying but not overwhelming.
Red Bull Red Edition: Watermelon
This watermelon edition seems to be among the more popular of Red Bull’s fruit flavors. Reviewers describe it as sweet and tart—and noted that it is perfect for summertime. This is one you should try if you like tangy watermelon candy.
Red Bull Summer Edition: Strawberry Apricot
One reviewer described the flavor of this Strawberry Apricot variety as “delicate,” noting that it reminded them of Strawberry Fruit Roll-ups. While some reviewers felt the strawberry was overpowering and left the apricot barely detectable, others proclaimed this their favorite summer edition flavor.
Red Bull Yellow Edition: Tropical
This Red Bull Tropical variety has a mix of robust fruit flavors. Offering a citrus flavor medley in every sip, this edition gets mostly positive reviews from fans that praise its refreshing taste that seems to have less of a chemical aftertaste than some other options.
Red Bull Winter Edition: Pomegranate
This Pomegranate variety was introduced as a previous Winter Edition offering, but you can still find it at some local markets and online retailers, although you may have to pay a premium price. It may be worth splurging on, though, if you enjoy the delightfully tart taste of pomegranates.
Red Bull Orange Edition: Tangerine
The Red Bull Orange Edition varieties—which included orange and tangerine flavors—seemed to be among their most popular, so it’s a bit baffling that the company has discontinued these variations. If you loved these tastes or are disappointed about being deprived of your chance to try the Orange Edition experience, you might want to consider adding your name to the online petition created by devotees hoping to convince the brand to bring back this fan favorite.
Red Bull Coconut Edition: Coconut Berry
Numerous online reviewers proclaimed this Coconut Berry variety to be their favorite Red Bull flavor by a mile, with some noting the lack of a strong aftertaste. If you’re not a huge fan of powerful coconut flavoring, you will be happy to hear that the berry component is the more dominant flavor. Next up, find out how to tell if you’re drinking too much caffeine.
