PepsiCo has released a new, retro, artisanal cola product. Aimed at Millennial consumers, Caleb’s Kola is for those who have been gravitating towards products using pure and simple ingredients. Thus giving it an authentic and honest feeling.

The push to develop a market for craft sodas comes as Americans have been cutting back on carbonated drinks; people are turning to a growing number of teas, waters and other choices in the beverage aisle. Caleb’s Kola is Pepsi’s response to this shift in consumer shopping habits.

Named after Pepsi’s inventor, Caleb Bradham, the new Caleb’s Kola uses simple ingredients such as, sparkling water, Fair Trade cane sugar, kola nut extract, and a “secured blend of brown spices from around the world.” Caleb’s Kola comes in a classic 10-ounce glass bottle. Currently being sold at US Costco locations in Maryland, New York, Virginia and Washington, D.C., it will eventually be made available at other supermarkets.

It’ll be fascinating to see if Coca-Cola or other big soda brands follow with a similar approach.

Caleb’s Kola Update

Here’s more evidence that the craft beer boom is spilling into soda. PepsiCo confirmed that it will soon launch a new line of craft sodas called Stubborn Soda. These sodas will be sold in fountains at select foodservice accounts. Stubborn Soda is expected to come in flavours including, black cherry with tarragon, classic root beer, lemon berry acai, agave vanilla cream, orange hibiscus and pineapple cream.

“Following our recent launches of Caleb’s Kola and Mountain Dew Dewshine, we’re continuing to explore the craft space with Stubborn Soda and its unique, contemporary flavor profiles,” said a PepsiCo spokeswoman. “Introducing it on fountain with an engaging piece of innovative equipment offers consumers a new take on the traditional soft-drink experience while also creating value for customers.”

Source: http://www.thedieline.com/blog/2014/10/8/pepsi-launches-new-craft-soda-calebs-kola