Skip It

A familiar name has entered the energy drink shot category: Red Bull. As of June 2009, Red Bull has released two shots — regular and sugar free — to match its offerings of standard energy drinks. But with the promise of increased performance, emotional status, concentration and reaction speed, comes much disappointment.

Though the outward appearance is very similar to its full-sized companions, Red Bull Energy Shots do not share many of the characteristics fans have come to love. Opening the container is not as simple as popping a tab. First, you undo the shrink-wrap. Next, you unscrew the lid. Then, finally, you remove a white covering similar to that of a ketchup bottle.

The familiar Red Bull aroma will greet you as you begin to take a sip, but forewarn your taste buds. Although the shot is filled with the same ingredients as its regular-sized counterpart, you’re not about to experience that Red Bull taste that you know and love. The drink is overly sweet, medicinal and has a bitter aftertaste. It is not carbonated and does not require refrigeration (though, a chilled version, as tested by Reporter, lacks any kind of benefits).

Even though each two-ounce shot is packed with 80 mg of caffeine, the overall effects of the drink were not felt until about 45 minutes. At this point past consumption, this writer noted feeling less tired and in a better mood, but reaction time was not increased much (which was tested by random objects thrown at me before and after drinking the shot).

Overall, if you’re a die-hard Red Bull fan you’ll probably like this, but if you’re a casual Red Bull drinker, stick to the full-sized can — if only just for the taste.

Red Bull Energy Shot contains 25 calories and 6 grams of sugar and Red Bull Sugar Free Shot contains 2 calories and 0 grams of sugar. $2.49 at most grocery stores.