This is the Lotte Pine Bud Drink, containing 0.126% pine bud extract (itself made with 50% pine bud concentrate). The drink gained popularity after being featured in the 2024 Korean drama Love Next Door, which sparked the decision to try it. Product placement, indeed, works. After a couple of weeks of searching, it was finally found during a second visit to Kmall09.

The beverage had a clear green-brown khaki hue and a faint herbal aroma, reminiscent of pine forests. It was not carbonated. On tasting, the first impression was a sharp herbal pine flavour, reminiscent of eucalyptus and cooling menthol, with an immediate effect on the sinuses. This was balanced by a mellow sweetness and unexpected acidity. These notes persisted throughout the sip, gradually receding towards the finish, leaving a sweet, mildly acidic aftertaste. The cooling, herbal pine notes lingered pleasantly, providing a refreshing finish. Despite having no specific expectations, the unique flavour and cooling effect became quite enjoyable after a few sips, making it particularly suited for hot days.

This Lotte Pine Bud Drink contained 240 mL. It was produced in South Korea and purchased in Sydney, Australia in 2024.