I mentioned in a previous review that my local Dollar Tree had a front-of-store display featuring a handful of new energy drinks. So, naturally, I had to grab a small handful. And that’s how I ended up with this low carb, herbal energy drink, from Liquid Nitro.

There is no flavor indicated anywhere on the can. This is one of my pet peeves. I mean, I assume it’s your basic “original” flavor, but how much more design time would it have taken to plainly state that on the container?

Okay…yep. This is definitely a typical “original” energy drink flavor. It’s one I can’t really explain, but if you have ever had a sugar free Red Bull or Rockstar, you know the basic gist. It’s like, kind of metallic, but also kind of good; I suppose it’s an acquired taste, but it’s one I’ve actually acquired (unlike beer and coffee). However, this does manage to pack in something slightly unique, besides the included “herbs”: It’s sour. Like, pretty darn sour. 

A lot of “regular” flavor energy drinks have a hint of sourness. It’s just part of the flavor profile. But this one triples up on that: Don’t be surprised if you’re caught off guard and end up puckering after your first drink. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, unless obviously you’re not a fan of sour things. Personally, I’m indifferent to it here: It doesn’t really add a whole lot to the experience. Take a shot like Tweaker, for example: Those are pretty sour, but they also have fruity flavors that cater to that, like sour apple. This is just too plain to be interesting. 

One personal downside: It “only” has 160mg of caffeine. Don’t get me wrong, it’s enough to provide a noticeable boost, but I always prefer at least 200mg. That way, I feel like I can drink less while achieving longer-lasting results. That might just be a placebo effect, so what do I know? Either way, it’s my own personal preference, so whatever. Yours may vary.

At the end of the day, we’re left with an inexpensive, low carb, sugar free energy drink. If that’s all you’re looking for, it delivers on that front. If you’re looking for something more memorable, keep on walking.

Overall: 5.5/10. It’s just your average, “original” sugar free energy drink flavor only with a heightened sourness. The $1.25 price tag is reasonable for a full-size can, and adds to its appeal, while the 160mg caffeine content (per can) is standard. You pretty much know what you’re getting with this one, for better or worse; personally, I think there are enough of these crowding the market already.