10 Soda Brands from the ’70s We Wish Would Return

The 1970s introduced a wave of creative soda brands that aimed to capture the market with unique flavors and bold marketing. While some thrived, others faded into obscurity, leaving behind memories of fizzy fun and experimental tastes. Here are ten soda brands from the ’70s that many wish could make a comeback.

1. Aspen Soda

Aspen was a crisp, apple-flavored soda introduced by PepsiCo. Unlike the standard citrus or cola offerings of the time, Aspen stood out for its tart and refreshing taste. It was marketed as a sophisticated alternative to traditional soft drinks, appealing to adults and teens alike.

Despite its niche appeal, Aspen was discontinued after a few years. Its unique apple flavor remains unmatched by today’s soda options, leaving many fans nostalgic for its crispness and the distinct branding that made it feel like a premium choice.

2. 7Up Gold

7Up Gold took the lemon-lime brand in a spicy and unexpected direction. This soda had a unique flavor profile that included hints of cinnamon and ginger. It was a bold move to diversify 7Up’s offerings and break away from its classic image.

Unfortunately, the unusual taste didn’t resonate with enough consumers, and 7Up Gold was short-lived. Those who enjoyed its distinctive kick still remember it fondly as a daring experiment that added variety to the soda aisle.

3. Pepsi Light

Pepsi Light was a diet soda with a twist of lemon, aimed at health-conscious consumers during the early days of the diet soda trend. The lemon flavor differentiated it from other diet colas, giving it a fresh and zesty edge.

While it paved the way for other flavored diet sodas, Pepsi Light eventually disappeared from store shelves. Fans of its tangy taste still miss its innovative approach to low-calorie beverages.

4. Dr Pepper’s Pepper Free

Pepper Free was Dr Pepper’s caffeine-free option, introduced to cater to those avoiding caffeine but still craving the brand’s signature taste. It maintained the rich, spiced flavors of Dr Pepper while offering a more accessible alternative.

Despite its initial popularity, Pepper Free couldn’t sustain its place in the market. Today, it’s remembered as a thoughtful attempt to expand options for soda lovers with specific dietary preferences.

5. Coca-Cola’s Tab Clear

Tab Clear was a clear diet soda that aimed to compete with Crystal Pepsi. It retained the flavor of the original Tab but featured a transparent appearance to appeal to the novelty-seeking crowd of the ’70s.

Its short lifespan was due to confusion among consumers and limited marketing success. However, its quirky design and bold concept have cemented its place in soda history as a memorable experiment.

6. RC Draft Cola

RC Draft Cola was Royal Crown’s attempt to evoke the feel of an old-fashioned soda fountain drink. It boasted a rich, smooth flavor that stood out from other mass-produced colas.

Though it earned praise for its craftsmanship, RC Draft Cola struggled to compete with bigger brands. Its absence today leaves a gap for those who appreciated its unique, artisanal vibe.

7. Mellow Yellow’s Wild Red

Wild Red was Mellow Yellow’s answer to the growing demand for fruity sodas. This cherry-flavored drink had a vibrant color and a sweet, tangy taste that set it apart from its competitors.

Despite its fun flavor, Wild Red didn’t last long in the market. Its fans still recall it as a fun and flavorful addition to the soda lineup of the time.

8. Chime by Coca-Cola

Chime was Coca-Cola’s herb-infused soda that sought to create a sophisticated, adult-oriented beverage. Its subtle blend of spices and herbs made it a standout in a sea of sugary, fruit-based drinks.

The unique flavor profile, however, didn’t attract a broad audience, and Chime was discontinued. It’s remembered as a bold and creative departure from standard soda formulas.

9. Rondo

Rondo was a citrus soda with a “bolder” image, marketed as the drink for adventurous spirits. Its tagline, “Rondo—The Thirst Crusher,” emphasized its refreshing qualities and aimed to attract those seeking something different.

Though its time was short, Rondo’s daring branding and tangy taste left an impression. Fans still talk about its fun commercials and crisp flavor.

10. Like Cola

Like Cola was a saccharin-sweetened soda aimed at calorie-conscious consumers before aspartame became popular. It mimicked the taste of regular cola while offering a diet-friendly alternative.

However, changing sweetener trends and evolving consumer tastes led to its discontinuation. Like Cola’s legacy lives on as a trailblazer in the diet soda category, sparking nostalgia among its former fans.