Lemon & Paeroa, or L&P, is New Zealand’s defining soft drink, but it’s only ‘world famous in New Zealand’ so rather difficult or expensive to source abroad. Luckily with D’s parents returning from a cruise to the country, we managed to satisfy our tastebuds in the comfort of our home.
The beverage was a clear pale yellow hue, accompanied by a gentle and sweet lemon aroma, and featured moderate carbonation. Served chilled, the initial sips revealed sweet notes of light lemon juice that peaked in the body, where the bubbles provided a palate-cleansing experience, resulting in a somewhat dry mouthfeel. This preceded a fresh lemony aftertaste in the finish. The lemon notes in this drink were distinct to L&P, emphasizing the flavour of lemon juice over the fruit’s zesty qualities. It was less acidic compared to a traditional pub squash like Schweppes Solo and a touch less sweet than Schweppes Traditional Lemonade. The profile was defined by a subtle piquant hint in the background reminiscent of lemon bitters. Surprisingly, we found the canned and bottled versions of this drink to have a mellower and less piquant flavor than the premixed beverage available at fast-food restaurants in New Zealand.
This Coca-Cola Lemon & Paeroa contained 250 mL. It was produced in New Zealand and received as a gift from relatives visiting New Zealand.