Let me up front with the fact that I have never, ever had a mojito in my life, so I can’t speak to the authenticity of the Monster Mojito’s taste. I can however tell you that as far as slightly odd flavors goes, it’s pretty good.

The first thing I was struck by was the slightly alcoholic odor that came popping from the soda’s bubbles. Not at all offputting, but unexpected. After a quick pull from my glass, the odor seemed to mellow somewhat as the soda rolled through my mouth. There’s only the slightest hint of an alcohol taste, which may steer some people clear of the soda, but it was so faint that after another swig or two, I could no longer discern it.

Overall, it’s a pretty tasty little drink, my expression in the final photo not withstanding. It definitely falls into the lemon-lime category, but with a taste that 7-up wishes it was half as crisp or clean as. As a rule, I credit the cane sugar recipe with the distinct lack of an aftertaste, but it’s more noticeably missing with the Monster Mojito than normal. Too bad Jones is only offering this as a seasonal Halloween drink, as I’d love to keep some in my fridge during the dog days of summer.

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