Sol Mate is one of the most basic energy drinks I’ve ever consumed. It ditches the high levels of chemical enhancers and instead utilizes with a bare bones, all natural, organic formula composed almost entirely of sparkling Yerba Mate. For those of you (myself included) who have no idea, Yerba Mate is a cleansing herb native to Spain and is said to have a myriad of health benefits, and is very commonly used as an ingredient in modern energy drinks.

How does the drink’s slogan, “Just Energy, No Jitters” hold up? It’s review time!

After getting the cap off, a feat which actually required the help of another person, and lifting the long glass bottle to my nose for a whiff, I was taken aback. I had absolutely no idea what to expect, but I anticipated much worse than what I got. The strange liquid, slightly darker than green tea in color, emits a very peculiar and unique odor that I have never before experienced. A strange blend of dirt and slightly sweetened iced tea maybe? Whatever it is it’s certainly weird, but it wasn’t bad enough to chase me away.

Instead I became curious. The first sip produced a flavor that was infinitely familiar yet entirely unique. I can’t put my finger on exactly what it is, but the taste triggers something. It’s like a peculiar mash up of iced tea, flat beer and cob webs. For the first half of the bottle I was on the fence as to whether I didn’t mind the strange flavor or hated it, but after finishing it up it’s safe to say that, while it certainly isn’t very good, it definitely isn’t horrible. It’s just very weird. Keep an open mind when you drink it.

The kick, as I had expected, is beyond pathetic. About 10 minutes after passing the halfway point I started to feel slightly uplifted. I hoped this weak sensation was going to be the start of something spectacular but as the minutes went on the boost stayed exactly where it was at. There were definitely no jitters, but I can’t say there was any energy either.

Sol Mate comes in a 10 oz, single serving bottle for prices ranging from ludicrous to dirt cheap. I got my bottle from Big Lots  for a mere 70 cents, but I’ve seen it online for as high as $3.00. I personally don’t recommend spending more than a buck on it, but the glass bottle and the fact that it’s organic keeps it from being reasonably priced at most retailers.

Final Words

A very healthy alternative to mainstream energy drinks, Sol Mate is a quirky one of a kind drink with a maddeningly familiar flavor and aroma. The kick is nothing more than a slightly uplifting boost, but if you can find it for around a dollar I suggest picking it up and trying it for yourself. Especially if you are one of those health nut losers.

Pros

• No jitters
• Very unique

Cons

• No energy
• You probably won’t like the way it tastes or smells
• Way too expensive at retail

Score: 5/10 (Mediocre)

Aroma: 6.75/10
Taste: 5.5/10
Kick: 2.75/10
Value: 4.5/10 (At retail. If you can find it for a buck, add 3.5 to this score)