When I think of the major brands in the soda industry that frequently release interesting limited-time flavors, I don't usually think of 7UP. That's a game usually reserved for Mountain Dew, Dr. Pepper, and occasionally Coca-Cola (particularly regarding their Creations line). Nonetheless, when 7UP Shirley Temple first came on my radar, my interest was instantly piqued. I believed that if 7UP could replicate the flavors of the classic mocktail while retaining their signature flavor profile, it could be really special.

Now, 7UP, in and of itself, I must admit, has never been one of my favorite lemon-lime sodas. I have, however, appreciated its uniquely airy mouthfeel and taste from time to time. I have always found their lemon-lime offerings less pungent, or perhaps less overwhelming, than those offered by Sprite or Sierra Mist (and now Starry). I even had a phase when I was younger wherein I drank quite a bit of the cherry flavor. I say this because this drink does something very well that I think the majority of soft drink LTOs strive to: it retains the essence of the original drink - its unique flavor profile - while mixing in a novel twist that both works well with those flavors.

7UP Shirley Temple is a great drink. It's one that honestly surprised me by how much I've come to enjoy it. It's sweet, but not too much so. The grenadine flavor isn't so overwhelming that I would put this drink in the "dessert soda" category. It's refreshing, and tastes very similar to the classic grenadine mixture. I can imagine if I mixed up a Shirley Temple with the original 7UP in the future, it wouldn't be too far off from this. This soda was unexpected and proved itself to be a standout offering. I truly hope that it returns, as it ignited an interest in 7UP in me, and I'm sure many others as well. I certainly would love to have some more next year!

Overall Rating: 4.5 Stars