Like a Virgin? No

If being virgin is a virtue, then that’s Virgin Cola’s only virtue. In this Coke drinker’s opinion, this is a virgin without taste and personality. So what’s the point? Richard Branson, chairman of London-based Virgin Cola Co. and its parent, Virgin Trading Co., says he is “excited by the thought of Virgin Cola taking on Coke and Pepsi in their home territory.”

Fat chance. The Brits may like their virgins, uh, colas simple, flat and too, too sweet, but to those of us who were weaned on the Real Thing, Virgin Cola tastes like a bad Shasta. And when Diet Virgin tastes better than the caloric version, what else is there to say? The consensus of our tasters is that this cola’s got to add some zip if she intends to party in the U.S.

Available in 12-ounce cans sold in six packs for about $2.39 and individually from 75 cents to $1, at convenience store chains.