ROCKSTAR BAJA JUICED EL MANGO
The BAJA series, which was released in Germany, has returned as the BAJA JUICED series. This time, it's a mango flavor that contains mango juice.
While the American version had no juice, the German version includes fruit juice, offering a distinct and fruity flavor that's on another level. I also compared the German and American versions this time.
ROCKSTAR BAJA JUICED EL MANGO
Manufacturer | ROCKSTAR |
---|---|
Country of Origin | Germany |
Price | 1.69 EUR |
Flavor | Mango |
Total rating | ★★★★☆ |
Author: Energy Drink-kun
In 2001, while living in the United States, I encountered energy drinks through the dance scene and was deeply impressed. After returning to Japan, I found that energy drinks were considered novelty beverages, so I established a comprehensive website in 2013 to share the true appeal of energy drinks. As an energy drink enthusiast, I began drinking them seriously again, collecting over 7,000 varieties of energy drinks from various countries. I am also active as a critic and expert, receiving media interviews.
Strangely Real Mango Flesh & Fiber Enjoyable Mango Flavor
When poured into a glass, it takes on a bright, cloudy orange color. The fragrance is filled with a rich fruity scent, which is quite enjoyable. Is it just me, or does it have a faint carrot juice-like aroma?
Upon tasting, the rich flavor of mango, peach, and the umami of fruit flesh and fibers spreads in a refreshing fruity flavor.
The mouthfeel is soft and refreshing, with a perfect balance of rich fruit flavor that is outstanding. Among mango juice-flavored drinks, this is one of the best in terms of taste.
While maintaining a refreshing drinkability, the strong and delicious mango flavor lingers until the end. This is a well-made product that can be enjoyed completely, especially in its 500ml size. The flavor and appearance clearly aim to rival the JUICE MONSTER MANGO LOCO from Germany.
Comparing the Juice-Free American Version with the Juice-Containing German Version
The original American BAJA series contains no juice. Since the same mango flavor was released, I compared the juice-filled German version with the American version.
On the left is the German version, and on the right is the American version. You can see the difference in color and texture.
The German version shows the fibers rising up, giving it a cloudy look. Personally, I prefer the more natural-looking German version, which contrasts with the syrup-like transparency of the American version.
The American version adds a sourness that seems like it missed the mark with lime, making it taste more like a mango nectarine. Its fragrance is more recognizable as a mango fruit compared to the German version, but the flavor feels somewhat cheap. This could be because I compared it with the outstanding German version, which made the American one feel a bit artificial.
The German version is clearly a different level of deliciousness, with the fruit juice providing a real mango juice energy drink flavor, and a refreshing taste that is worlds apart from the American version. Comparing the two is almost unfair.
ROCKSTAR BAJA JUICED EL MANGO Energy Ingredients
It contains 160mg of caffeine and 1000mg of taurine. These are fairly standard amounts.
The juice content is 8%, with 6% apple juice and 2% mango juice. Although this small amount of juice doesn't drastically change the flavor, it creates a distinct and much better taste than the American version.
ROCKSTAR BAJA JUICED EL MANGO Design
The design features a colorful, vibrant blue as the main color, with a bold Mexican skull, a signature design associated with Mexico.
The skull's eyes contain mango fruit, making it clear that this product delivers a true mango fruit experience.
The German and UK versions now use the "BAJA JUICED" label. The product keeps the BAJA series name, which originally came from the American line, but now it’s reclassified as part of the juice series due to the unique fruit juice content.
BAJA Series Dropped, Becomes Just a Juice Series
In the US, the BAJA series ended after just one season. Later, the design was revamped, and when Big Star became Straight Star, the BAJA label was dropped. Now, in Germany, the UK, and Spain, it's simply categorized as a juice series.
Personally, I would have liked to see the "BAJA" label remain since it’s so strongly linked to Mexico, but the skull’s eyes no longer contain the mango, and the skull design has been simplified.
In 2022, the Australian EL MANGO was released without the "BAJA" label, following the European model. The juice is packed with fruit juice, delivering a fresh mango-squeezed juice feel.
Energy Drink-kun's Personal Rating
- Flavor
- Aroma
- Weight
- Freshness
- Munchiness