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I have drunk vast quantities of both Coke and Pepsi during the past thirty years. Although that's an accomplishment of questionable value, it seems to me that I have a very good idea of how both drinks taste. It's funny how carbonated water can evoke the same strong reactions that beer or wine do. With wine, you have a alcoholic beverage that can improve in taste over time, so I can see how a knowledgeable taster can develop preferences. Beer can be brewed by a number of different recipes and does have a number of varieties, although a limited shelf life, so I can understand beer preferences, especially since I've drunk more beer than wine over the years and I do prefer certain brews over others.

But then there's the two giants of dark, bubbling, sweetened liquid: Coke and Pepsi. Is one better than the other? Do I have a preference?

Yes, I do. I'm a Pepsi fan since childhood. I will admit that over the years I've developed a respect for Coke beverages and I'm willing to admit they have a time and place. Coke is especially refreshing on a hot day and helps slake a thirst. However, Pepsi is still my drink of choice (specifically Diet Pepsi). Here's why:

- Pepsi has a sweeter, slightly sharper taste than Coke. To me, Coke is less vibrant and somewhat harsher. Ice cold Coke's great if you are super-thirsty, but it's less appealing to me at other times.

- I mainly drink the diet colas these days. Diet Pepsi retains the qualities of its parent drink. Diet Coke tastes duller and tends to make my tongue go numb. Coke Zero is a good improvement over Diet Coke, but only because it tastes more like Diet Pepsi.

- Pepsi tastes better when eating salty foods, especially potato chips or popcorn. I also prefer it when eating tortillas, nachos, etc. The contrast between sweetness and saltiness is very pleasing to me.

I'm not sure how it happened but I'm definitely a Pepsi fan. Coke drinkers, I respect your choice of beverage and I even enjoy it on occasion. But give me sweet Pepsi any day!

Learn more about this author, Mark Dykeman.
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