V ENERGY REFRESH BLACKCURRANT & YUZU

Posted on December 21, 2024 | Last updated January 27, 2025

This is a review of V ENERGY REFRESH BLACKCURRANT & YUZU, the fourth installment of the sugar-free V ENERGY REFRESH series, released in August 2024.

I purchased it while in New Zealand. I didn't expect much from it at first, but the moment I opened the can, I was instantly captivated by its fantastic flavor.

V ENERGY REFRESH BLACKCURRANT & YUZU

Manufacturer
Country of Origin
Price	3.65 NZD
Flavor	Apple、Yuzu
Total rating	★★★★☆

Author information 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.

Flavor of V ENERGY REFRESH BLACKCURRANT & YUZU

When I opened the can, the refreshing scent of yuzu pulp and the fresh aroma of yuzu peel burst out. While "yuzu-flavored" energy drinks have been released in various countries, this is the first time I've encountered such a real and authentic yuzu scent. Now, let's take a sip.
Flavor of V ENERGY REFRESH BLACKCURRANT & YUZU
The moment it hits my mouth, I experience the strong acidity of yuzu combined with the savory sour apple-like flavor based on V's original base, creating a yuzu & green apple flavor.

There’s no unpleasant aftertaste from artificial sweeteners, just the juicy apple flavor from V’s original base complemented by the refreshing yuzu flavor and its savory notes. The black currant flavor is almost nonexistent, and only a faint blueberry-like aroma lingers after drinking. Yuzu is the dominant flavor here.

I never imagined that the refreshing, whole-yuzu flavor would blend so well with V’s original base.

Generally, yuzu flavor comes in two varieties: the rich, juicy type with strong savory notes and the refreshing, fruity type with mild sweetness, acidity, and a hint of bitterness. This one leans toward the latter, a refreshing and fruity variety.
Flavor of V ENERGY REFRESH BLACKCURRANT & YUZU
Since V ENERGY REFRESH is part of the sugar-free series, it achieves a perfect balance without forcing a heavy taste, offering a light, sugar-free drink that's still satisfying. It could be considered a masterpiece.

Energy Ingredients of V ENERGY REFRESH BLACKCURRANT & YUZU

Energy Ingredients of V ENERGY REFRESH BLACKCURRANT & YUZU
It contains 156mg of caffeine and 600mg of guarana. No other energy ingredients are included.

Design of V ENERGY REFRESH BLACKCURRANT & YUZU

The matte texture is a signature feature of the sugar-free V ENERGY REFRESH series. This time, the lavender color is used, which seems to represent black currant, though it gives a different impression compared to the flavor.
Design of V ENERGY REFRESH BLACKCURRANT & YUZU
V ENERGY series has started using can colors to represent the flavor, but with the lavender color here, the image doesn’t quite match the actual taste, which feels a bit disappointing.

I wish they had used a design that better conveyed the fresh, savory taste of yuzu.
Design of V ENERGY REFRESH BLACKCURRANT & YUZU
This isn't just a critique of V ENERGY REFRESH BLACKCURRANT & YUZU; it applies to all current V series products. I hope to see more unique and exciting designs in the future, like we used to.