Kima Kola

When East Imperial lost patience with overly sweet, artificial colas, they created their own. Kima Kola was introduced in the summer of 2021 and stood out for being sweetened with a blend of honey and cane sugar, resulting in a lower overall sweetness—7.2 g per 100 ml compared to the 9–11 g typical of most colas. This made it a welcome alternative for those seeking a drier mixer for their drinks. With warming spices and vanilla, it was designed as a refined companion for dark spirits.

As of January 2025, it was still listed on the company’s website, but appears to have been quietly discontinued shortly thereafter.

East Imperial Ltd. is based in Auckland and was founded with the aim of reviving traditional mixers using natural ingredients and historical recipes. The company has built its reputation on tonic water and ginger beer before expanding the range to include Kima Kola, crafted with a focus on origin, authenticity, and balance.