Canta Ritos Mandarin (5% ABV Hard Soda), Four Loko (13.9% ABV Flavored Malt), and Captain Morgan Spiced Rum

Apologies in advance if there are grammatical or spelling errors in this post, as I completely underestimated how Four Loko’s alcohol content would affect me, it’s a 24Oz can so for my tolerance it is a ton of alcohol. Can barely hold my head up, but here are my opinions on both of these drinks in case you are considering them.

The Canta Ritos is super good, which aligns with my enjoyment of their Pineapple flavor as well. Very good flavor balance and it is barely bitter at all. Refreshing, sharp, but not hard to drink. You cannot go wrong with this at all! 9/10.

Four Loko (the original?) on the other hand is almost the opposite. The flavor is not very natural, sort of like if Jolly Ranchers made a hard soda with 14% ABV, medium amount of bitterness while the flavors compliment it which helps to mask the bitterness somewhat. In a way it is satisfying, you are hit with a complexity of fruity flavors and a fruity bitterness before your throat heats up from the high alcohol content. In that way it is satisfying. I can definitely understand why people have polarizing opinions on this, it won’t be for everyone. But I give this an 8/10 because it is fun, not the greatest in terms of natural taste but I have a lot of fun just from drinking this.

Two nights ago I was at the bar and tried Captain Morgan spiced rum on the rocks. I loved it! While rum isn’t the same as bourbon whiskey, I dare say I enjoyed this more than Maker’s Mark. I am hit with a sweet vanilla flavor, and slightly familiar flavors that I’m used to with whiskeys in general. It’s hard to recall the specifics because it’s been two days and I am very intoxicated while writing this, but I really liked it and I will never hesitate to have this again! Not giving it a specific rating, just know I love it.

I’m going to have to stop drinking until the start of next month since I have been impulsive recently. But if you have suggestions or thoughts to share, please do! I’m enjoying the discovery of new beverages. I don’t care if you have strong dislike for what I enjoy, because I will be considering suggestions nonetheless. That’s the beauty of the alcohol side of the world, there’s a massive variety and there will always be a drink for everyone. No shame, only care about what you enjoy!