Coca-Cola to bring back iconic flavour 'permanently' nearly a decade after it was discontinued

Coca-Cola is set to revive one of its most loved drinks flavours permanently, much to the delight of fans of the fizzy drinks.

Over the years, the iconic brand has released and then discontinued a whole load of weird and wonderful flavours, from Ginger Lime and Strawberry Guava to Diet Coke with Splenda and Coca-Cola Spiced.

There are several flavours, however, that people have repeatedly begged bosses to bring back, and in one case, it seems their persistence has finally paid off – but which flavour is coming back?

The announcement of the new flavour comes after Coca-Cola held its third quarter earnings call, in which CEO James Quincey admitted a number of challenges facing the company, as the market continues to grow in competition (just look at the number of celebs bringing out their own drinks collections).

Okay, enough teasing.

The good news is in for anyone who was a fan of the iconic Diet Cherry Coke, because not only is it coming back, but it looks set to stay. The announcement was shared by a food account called Snackolator, who spoke to Coca-Cola reps at a trade event earlier this year.

"The Return of the King: Diet Cherry Coke returns in early 2026 and this time it’s back permanently," they wrote on Instagram.

“I posted about this last month, but now have the artwork for the 20oz. bottles and cans — I’m way too excited for the GOAT to come back and cannot wait to load up!"

Snackolator continued: "They confirmed this is a ‘sustain’ item which means it is intended to stick around (not a ‘limited’ flavor) so hopefully it sells well enough to stay FOREVER this time. And unlike the recent retro release at Kroger stores, this will be at ALL retailers."

Although this particular announcement is relevant to the United States, it comes hot off the heels of Coca-Cola announcing Diet Cherry Coke would be returning to the UK in its original retro packaging. Sadly, however, it is limited edition in the UK, with the beverage brand confirming that 'once it's gone, it's gone'.

“We have been listening and are so excited to announce the return of Diet Cherry Coke," senior brand manager for Diet Coke GB, Tara Byrnes, said last month.

"The comeback of this retro icon is the tasty throwback that fans have been hoping for. Some love a classic, and others a twist; for some this little cherry-flavoured ritual will give an opportunity to make Diet Coke breaks reflect ‘your taste’ even more.

"Returning exclusively for a limited time, the flavour you love, cherry, is back – but get it while you can!"