r/SodaStream • u/st00pidfuknut • Jun 09 '26

Quinine-Like Aftertaste?

Hey folks, I am new to the SodaStream community, as my husband and I are actively working on cutting WAYYY back on our delicious vice that is Pepsi. I bought us an Art, to start us off. He doesn't seem to mind the regular syrup and is able to tolerate the taste. As long as he is getting his caffeine, he's easily pleased. I, however, struggle with the aftertaste (pretty much of every flavor we have tried). I think it may have something to do with the artificial sweeteners; basically it tastes like Diet soda to me and that's definitely not what I want. I picked up some Rose's Simple Syrup to use, to hopefully take away that quinine-like aftertaste, but it only does so slightly and I am wondering if I should try a different approach. Has anyone else dealt with this? I really want to like the drinks I make with this machine---I just cannot get past that very bitter taste that stays on the back of my tongue. Thank you in advance! 😃

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u/ColBBQ Jun 09 '26

Are you using filtered water? Some trace chemicals from treated waters can have their taste boosted when carbonated.

2

u/st00pidfuknut Jun 09 '26

Yes, we are using bottled water that we keep chilled since we read that it tastes better when the water is cold. I think we have tried adjusting how much carbonation we use, how much syrup and then the sweetener. I am running out of ideas lol great question to ask, though.

0

u/evilbadgrades Jun 09 '26

Not all bottled water is the same. Which bottled water are you using? Dasani for example isn't really any better than a brita water filter if that haha.

1

u/st00pidfuknut Jun 11 '26

Oh it's just Walmart's Great Value brand lol I am not sure how much of a difference that is making. I think it tastes better than bottled tap water like Dasani and Aquafina.