My experience with figs is limited to one product — Fig Newtons. I’ve never taken a bite from the fruit, seen one in real life, or earned one as an ancient Olympian, but I know they can be purple.
However, if you showed me a purple onion but told me it was a fig, I’d believe you. And if you put a Purple Vienna kohlrabi in front of me and told me it’s a fig, I know you’re telling a fib. But now my exposure to the fruit has expanded beyond moist cookies thanks to Red Bull’s new Winter Edition Fig Apple Energy Drink.
The aroma from the spout smells like apple hard candy, but at times, my nose thinks it’s watermelon candy. Maybe that’s the fig? Whatever it is, it’s not repulsive unless you dislike the smell of Jolly Rancher.
What I think is the fig is present immediately after taking a sip, and I’m going to describe it poorly as what I imagine artificial raisin flavor is like. It’s a weird introduction, but a familiar apple taste follows it, along with a noticeable sourness. After the initial burst, the fig fades, and it’s all apple, even throughout the aftertaste. And that apple makes this Red Bull a worthwhile, decent tasting energy drink that I’d sip again.
I also want to add that while I was drinking this, my taste buds had flashbacks to when it seemed like everyone, including your grandma, had their own energy drink that was a Red Bull knockoff. Maybe it’s the fig or the sourness, but that Red Bull knockoff-ness isn’t bad. It’s just something I noticed.
I’m too lazy to spend five minutes looking this up, but I think Red Bull’s Winter Edition Fig Apple is the first fig-flavored energy drink ever. (Internet, prove me wrong.) I wouldn’t place it among my Red Bull favorites, but I found it enjoyable. Although, if it was a straight-up apple-flavored Red Bull, I’d like it more.
Purchased Price: More than one should pay on eBay
Size: 12 oz can
Purchased at: eBay
Rating: 7 out of 10
Nutrition Facts: (1 can) 160 calories, 0 grams of fat, 130 milligrams of sodium, 40 grams of carbohydrates, 38 grams of sugar (including 38 grams of added sugar), 0 grams of protein, and 114 milligrams of caffeine.
“Artificial raisin” is about as accurate a description of the taste of fig as I can think of.
Technically they should be calling it Autumn or Fall edition…
For those wanting to try it, it is exclusive to Kroger brand stores through October. Nationwide launch starts 10/31.
I’m a huge Red Bull fan and fig fan. I think I’m going to have to try this artificial fig flavor for myself. It sounds so strange and interesting!