Most of the energy drinks on the market taste like crap. I liken it to that nasty after taste I get from McDonalds food which I stopped eating years ago. Sort of a lasting sour taste that may be metallic that sits on your tongue or roof of your mouth. Like you, I stay away from energy drinks. If I want the caffeine I'll drink a smooth coffee. Once Green Cures sells their hemp-infused coffee, I'm a lifer.