Eat & Drink

Sam's Club Just Stocked a Brand-New 'Nostalgic' Alani Nu Flavor

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Energy drink fans are always looking for the next big flavor, and this summer one of the buzziest new releases is already popping up at major retailers. Shoppers have spotted it at Sam's Club, Costco and even stores like Target and Walmart, sparking plenty of excitement online.

The new drink promises a sweet throwback taste inspired by childhood treats. It's sugar-free, packed with caffeine and has fans debating whether it's one of Alani Nu's best flavors yet.

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A New Flavor With Serious Throwback Vibes

@samsclubfavorites

🍬 Alani Nu just dropped a BRAND NEW Purple Cotton Candy flavor and it landed at Sam's Club! Zero sugar, 200mg of caffeine, and that sweet nostalgic cotton candy taste you didn't know you needed in an energy drink. ⚡️ New flavor alert and it is already a must-try! ($17.98) #samsclub#samsclubfinds#alaninu

♬ original sound - Sam's Club Favorites

The latest release, shown by user @samsclubfavorites, is Alani Nu's Purple Cotton Candy energy drink, a limited-edition flavor that recently landed at Sam's Club in 12-packs for $17.98. The drink contains zero sugar, around 10–15 calories, and 200 milligrams of caffeine per can.

According to Alani Nu, the flavor blends sweet cotton candy notes with a grape candy twist. The result is a drink that feels nostalgic while offering the energy boost fans expect from the brand.

The limited-edition release follows a growing trend of nostalgic flavors inspired by childhood favorites. Cotton candy remains one of the most recognizable sweet flavors around, and Alani Nu is putting a new spin on it.

Related: Sam's Club's Newest Dessert Has Shoppers Divided-Here's Why

Fans Are Split on What It Actually Tastes Like

As with many limited-edition products, reactions have been mixed.

Some fans say Purple Cotton Candy tastes more like grape soda or a grape-flavored candy than traditional cotton candy. Comparisons to grape Fanta, Grape Jolly Ranchers and even Grape Pixie Sticks are common online. Many say they love the taste and are already planning to buy more.

Others are less convinced. Some fans expected a stronger cotton candy flavor and say the drink doesn't deliver enough of those classic carnival vibes. A few people have even compared the grape flavor to childhood medicines, though opinions vary widely.

The divide hasn't stopped shoppers from seeking it out. Alani Nu has built a loyal fan base by releasing bold flavors that stand out from traditional energy drinks, and Purple Cotton Candy is no exception.

Whether you end up tasting cotton candy, grape soda or a little bit of both, one thing is clear: this nostalgic new flavor has people talking, and shoppers are scooping it up while they still can.

Related: A New Energy Drink Brand Just Launched in 4 Fun Flavors

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This story was originally published June 15, 2026 at 1:25 PM.

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