Although "spiced" and "spicy" share a root word, they have different meanings. The former can be used to describe any spice, such as "cinnamon-spiced coffee," whereas the latter usually refers to something spicy, such as a chile pepper.
The Cambridge Dictionary defines "spicy" as "containing strong flavors from spices," and its sample sentences suggest that the spices aren't cloves, cumin, or nutmeg.
Coca-Cola may have called its new Spiced and Spiced Zero after this small distinction. These drinks taste like raspberry (besides cola), but we don't know what spices they contain.
The packaging preview at last year's National Association of Convenience Stores trade conference revealed that Coca-Cola Spiced will come in raspberry and normal tastes.
For present, the firm appears to be releasing only two kinds, ordinary and zero sugar, flavored with raspberry and an undisclosed spice.
In a press statement, Coca-Cola says Spiced is "not spicy" to Mashed, so expect no flaming spices.
How will we identify the mysterious spice(s)? Since Coke has been all about mystery tastes lately, we may have to test it and guess. Last year's gamer-inspired "Ultimate," and the Coca-Cola Move, whose taste baffled the internet, were examples.
For Presidents' Day celebrations, Coca-Cola Spiced will be available on February 19. Two days prior, Coca-Cola released Happy Tears, a mildly salty drink.
You'll spot Spiced on store shelves by its pink-striped package. It will be sold in 12-ounce cans, 20-ounce bottles, and 12-packs. Full-sugar tiny cans, two-liter bottles, and half-liter six-packs are available.
Do not rush to get Coca-Cola Spiced before it sells out. It will be part of the brand's permanent lineup until the firm discontinues it, which might be months, years, or never.