Reed's, Inc.

How can you not immediately fall for a beverage that lists Szechuan Peony Root as its third ingredient? Cassia Bark, Raw Cane Sugar, Nutmeg, Oils of Lemon, Cloves, oo la la! It is, in fact, written into our charter here at the Small Foods Laboratories to consume all the Szechuan Peony Root-based snacks we can.

After the initial thrill of discovery, though, reality sets back in. China Cola is a bit flat and a bit heavy, more like a thin ginger beer than a cola. It’s not bad, but it’s not delicious either, not tremendously fun. It’s a solid, healthy cola alternative (with Szechuan Peony Root!) for those who prefer to drink their sodas from the strange springs along the road less traveled.