From its roots in Civil War medicine to a global flavor mystery, cola is more than just Coke or Pepsi—it’s Christmas in a bottle.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (BLOOM) — Whether you prefer Coca-Cola, Pepsi or a lesser-known brand like RC or Thums Up, chances are you’ve tasted a cola-flavored drink. But ask someone to describe what cola actually tastes like, and you’ll likely get blank stares, or vague answers like “sweet” or “fizzy.” So what is cola flavor, exactly?

According to a deep-dive video by Weird History Food, the answer is more complicated—and more fascinating—than most realize.

The origins of cola can be traced back to 1886, when Confederate Army veteran and pharmacist John Stith Pemberton invented a medicinal tonic to help kick his morphine addiction. Originally called “Pemberton’s French Wine Coca Nerve Tonic,” the early version combined cocoa leaves (yes, the kind that once included cocaine) with African kola nuts, which contain caffeine.

When Georgia enacted prohibition laws, Pemberton reformulated his drink to be alcohol-free—and gave it a new name: Coca-Cola.

Though Coke was originally sold as a remedy for headaches, indigestion and even impotence, it quickly gained popularity as a soda fountain beverage. By the early 20th century, the drink had gone mainstream—and inspired copycats. Pepsi, launched in 1898 as “Brad’s Drink,” became Coke’s biggest rival and introduced the now-standard 12-ounce bottle.

Still, the question lingers: what does cola taste like?

While the exact recipe for Coca-Cola remains a closely guarded secret, most modern colas share common ingredients: caramel color, carbonated water, caffeine, sugar, and a blend of “natural flavors.” Those flavors typically include vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and citrus oils from lemon, lime and orange.

In essence, cola is a spiced citrus blend, not unlike mulled wine—a fitting comparison given Coca-Cola’s long association with Christmas marketing. Pepsi differs slightly, with a more citrus-forward flavor and added citric acid that cuts through the sweetness.

Today, cola is the world’s most recognized soda flavor, found everywhere from American gas stations to Indian grocery stores. Regional favorites like Inca Kola in Peru and Thums Up in India have even outsold Coke in their home countries, prompting Coca-Cola to acquire them outright.

So, the next time you crack open a can and wonder what you’re tasting, think less about caramel and more about holiday spice. Cola flavor, it turns out, is less about a single ingredient—and more about a nostalgic blend of warmth, fizz and global appeal.