Esspo: A new type of afternoon pick-me-up – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Unsplash)
As the clock ticks toward 3 p.m., many reach for a familiar caffeine fix to combat the midday lull. Esspo offers a fresh twist on that ritual, blending the bold kick of cold brew espresso with the effervescent lift of soda. This innovative drink positions itself as a lighter, fizzier option for those tired of heavy lattes or flat energy drinks.
A Refreshing Take on Energy
Esspo arrived on the scene earlier this year, crafted to fill a gap in daily routines. Co-founders drew from their experience in media to create a beverage that captures the social, creative spark of afternoons.[1][2]
The drink combines smooth cold brew coffee with carbonation, delivering 120 milligrams of caffeine per 12-ounce can – equivalent to about one and a half cups of coffee. Paired with L-theanine, it promises sustained energy without the typical jitters or crash. Reviewers note its appeal as a reset between meetings or a boost for evening plans.[3]
Justin Stefano, one of the co-founders, described it as light and flavor-forward, designed for those in-between moments. He emphasized rethinking coffee’s role: “Esspo is carbonated, milkless, made with great ingredients and delicious flavors and is low calorie and better-for-you than other soda options.”[1]
Flavors That Pop
Esspo comes in three distinct varieties, each balancing coffee’s depth with soda-like brightness. Sweet Lemon delivers a zesty citrus punch alongside bold cold brew, evoking sunshine and refreshment. Classic Vanilla mimics a modern cream soda, smooth and subtly indulgent, while Cherry Vanilla mixes nostalgic cherry tang with vanilla warmth and a coffee edge.[4][5]
Tasters praise the restrained sweetness – around 45 calories and 6 to 7 grams of sugar per can, sourced from blue agave nectar and monk fruit. Natural ingredients like carbonated water, cold brew concentrate, lemon or cherry juice concentrates, and citric acid keep the profile clean. No stevia, dairy, or gluten appears on the labels, appealing to a wide audience.[2]
- Sweet Lemon: Bright and energizing, like a citrusy wake-up call.
- Classic Vanilla: Fizzy and smooth, a nod to classic sodas.
- Cherry Vanilla: Creamy cherry notes with coffee backbone.
The Appeal of No-Crash Caffeine
What sets Esspo apart lies in its formulation. The 120 milligrams of natural caffeine from cold brew pairs with L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes calm focus. Users report a steady lift, ideal for powering through the afternoon without disrupting sleep.[3]
Compared to sugary energy drinks or bitter plain brews, Esspo feels approachable and fun. One reviewer called it a “second wind” for late-day productivity, perfect for classes or creative sessions. Packaging in sleek 12-ounce cans reinforces its lifestyle vibe, with bold designs that hint at Italian espresso roots without clichés.[6]
| Attribute | Esspo | Cold Brew (typical) | Energy Drink (typical) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caffeine | 120mg | 80-200mg | 80-300mg |
| Calories | 35-45 | 5-15 | 10-200 |
| Sugar | 6-7g | 0g | 20-50g |
| L-Theanine | Yes | No | No |
Where to Find It and Why It Resonates
Launched direct-to-consumer via drinkesspo.com and TikTok Shop, Esspo quickly expanded to Whole Foods for a 90-day exclusive. A national rollout followed in April, making it easier to grab during grocery runs.[1]
Co-founder Philippe von Borries captured its essence: “It’s sort of the coming together of coffee, soda, and energy into this new thing… this drink is the thing that will get you there.” For busy professionals and social planners, it turns ordinary afternoons into opportunities.
Esspo proves coffee can evolve beyond mornings, offering a bubbly bridge to evenings full of potential.
