The Crisp Black Cherry of Monster Ultra Black
For consumers asking, "What monster tastes like cherry?" the answer is unequivocally Monster Ultra Black. This particular offering is part of Monster's popular "Ultra" line, which is distinguished by its zero-sugar, low-calorie formulation. The flavor is a crisp and slightly sweet black cherry, designed to be less cloying than many sugar-laden energy drink counterparts. Its appeal lies in its authentic taste, which some reviewers have noted is surprisingly true to real black cherry fruit, rather than the artificial, syrupy flavor often found in other beverages. This makes it a refreshing option for those seeking an energy boost without the intense sweetness or guilt of excess sugar.
The Ingredients Behind the Flavor
Behind the black cherry taste of Ultra Black is a carefully crafted blend of ingredients. While the exact proportions are proprietary, the ingredient list typically includes carbonated water, erythritol (a sugar alcohol used as a sweetener), and natural and artificial black cherry flavors. The energy is derived from the standard Monster Energy blend, which features ingredients such as caffeine, taurine, L-carnitine, and B vitamins. These components work in synergy to provide the energy boost Monster is known for, while the flavorings and zero-sugar sweeteners create the distinct taste profile. The use of erythritol and sucralose gives it a clean finish, distinguishing it from the stickier mouthfeel of traditional, sugar-heavy energy drinks.
The Ultra Line: A Comparison of Flavors
Monster's Ultra line is designed for those seeking a lighter, zero-sugar alternative. While Ultra Black offers a black cherry experience, other flavors provide a diverse range of tastes. These comparisons can help fans decide which Ultra variety best suits their preference.
A Closer Look at the Ultra Line
- Ultra White (Zero Ultra): This is the classic, original zero-sugar flavor. It has a light, refreshing citrus taste that is not overtly specific to one fruit. It's a versatile, all-purpose flavor that has a broader appeal than the more specific fruit profiles.
- Ultra Sunrise: As the name suggests, this flavor offers a bright and fruity orange profile. It's often compared to a mimosa, with its vibrant, citrusy notes. Fans appreciate its ability to be a morning pick-me-up without the caffeine jitters associated with stronger coffee drinks.
- Ultra Violet: This purple can holds a grape-flavored energy drink. The grape taste is distinct and bold, setting it apart from the more subtle fruit flavors of other Ultra varieties. It's a nostalgic flavor for many, reminiscent of grape sodas or candies.
- Ultra Fiesta: Offering a tropical twist, Ultra Fiesta combines mango with the classic Monster energy blend. It's a flavor that evokes a vacation or party atmosphere, with its sweet and exotic fruit notes. While Ultra Black is distinctly cherry, Fiesta is for those who prefer a more tropical fruit experience.
Comparison Table: Cherry vs. Other Monster Flavors
| Feature | Monster Ultra Black (Cherry) | Monster Ultra Sunrise (Orange) | Juice Monster Pacific Punch (Cherry Punch) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Crisp, slightly tart black cherry | Bright, citrusy orange | Sweet, complex fruit punch with cherry notes |
| Primary Sweetener | Erythritol, Sucralose | Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium | Sugar |
| Sugar Content | Zero sugar | Zero sugar | Contains sugar |
| Calories | 10 calories per can | 10 calories per can | Higher calorie count (due to sugar) |
| Texture | Light, sparkling, clean finish | Light, crisp, clean finish | Slightly heavier, syrupy texture |
| Availability | Recently re-released, exclusive to Kroger stores initially in the US | Widespread availability | Widespread availability |
The Return of Ultra Black
Monster Ultra Black has a bit of a storied history. It was originally released in 2017 but was not widely available for several years, leading to its disappearance from many store shelves. Its limited availability created a cult following, with dedicated fans searching for it online or through international distributors. The fan-favorite flavor has recently made a major comeback, with a September 2025 re-release exclusively at Kroger-family stores in the U.S. This exclusive re-release has created significant buzz among energy drink enthusiasts, who can now readily find the black cherry beverage they have missed. For those outside the US or near a Kroger, locating the product may still require some effort, though it may eventually see a wider distribution.
Conclusion
In summary, the Monster Energy flavor that tastes like cherry is Ultra Black, a zero-sugar option known for its crisp black cherry profile. Unlike the sugary fruit punches, Ultra Black offers a clean, light, and refreshing taste. While its availability has been inconsistent in the past, its recent re-release means fans can now more easily find and enjoy this distinctive flavor. For those exploring other zero-sugar options, the Ultra line provides a variety of fruit and citrus alternatives, though none replicate the specific black cherry experience of Ultra Black. For the purist seeking a black cherry energy drink, Ultra Black remains the definitive answer. The return of this sought-after flavor is a testament to its popularity and the brand's responsiveness to its passionate fan base. For those wanting to learn more about the Monster Energy lineup, the brand's official website is an excellent resource.
