A blind taste test of 18 unflavoured coconut waters, conducted by Nicholas Jordan and seven friends, found that fresh coconut water outperformed all bottled versions. The panel scored each product on aroma and flavour, with the fresh coconut taking the top spot by a significant margin. Jordan noted that nature remains 'Earth's greatest chef', but was relieved that none of the bottled waters tasted soapy, as he had feared.
The test highlighted a clear divide between products made from Thai coconuts, which are generally sweet and aromatic, and those from Filipino coconuts, described as low-sugar, low-taste and smelling like sweetened yoghurt. The worst products were deemed drinkable but boring or weird.
UFC Refresh Coconut Water ($3.79 per litre) was praised as a solid, unremarkable option that delivers exactly what you want. Cocolicious Coconut Water from Aldi ($2.59 per litre) came second overall, surprising the panel with its honey-like aroma and sweetness, despite being the cheapest product tested. Coles 100% Pure Coconut Water ($2.85 per litre) was described as an unsurprising, easy-access product, but the panel saw no reason to choose it over the Aldi option.
Kurious 100% Natural Coconut Water ($9.90 for four 330ml cans) was criticised as an exaggerated, intensified version of coconut water, likened to a childhood memory of eating coconut-scented body scrub. It was the most expensive product tested but did not impress the panel.
