The whispers are over: a beloved, classic soda flavor that fans have been yearning for is officially making its glorious comeback—and this time, it’s not a limited-time fling. Coca-Cola is permanently resurrecting Diet Cherry Coke, a move that is sure to thrill long-time enthusiasts and introduce a new generation to this iconic fruity fizz. If you’re one of the millions who desperately missed the crisp, sweet-and-tart flavor, keep reading to find out when this iconic beverage will be back on shelves for good.
Diet Cherry Coke’s big comeback
After years of fan campaigns and countless “when will it be back?” questions, Coca-Cola is finally giving Diet Cherry Coke the comeback it deserves. The cherry-flavored diet classic is returning to store shelves full-time, and this time, the company promises it’s here for good.
The first hints appeared on Snackolator, Instagram’s go-to source for snack news, which shared updated artwork for the 20-ounce bottles and cans. Then, according to TimeOut, a Coca-Cola spokesperson confirmed at a trade event that the flavor is now a permanent “sustain” item rather than a limited seasonal release. While fans got a taste during a brief retro-style run at Kroger stores this summer, the 2026 relaunch will bring Diet Cherry Coke nationwide, in both 20-ounce bottles and 12-packs—though 2-liter bottles are still unconfirmed.
View this post on Instagram
The long, winding journey of Diet Cherry Coke
Diet Cherry Coke has had a notoriously unpredictable history. Originally introduced in 1985, the cherry-flavored diet soda was rebranded in 2006 as Diet Coke Feisty Cherry, only to be discontinued shortly after. It resurfaced in 2018 as part of Coca-Cola’s flavored Diet Coke lineup, then gradually disappeared once again—leaving fans longing for a permanent return. Earlier this year, the flavor made a brief comeback in the UK, riding the wave of cherry being named one of the year’s hottest flavor trends. Now, after decades of starts, stops, and revivals, Diet Cherry Coke is finally poised for the full-time spot fans have been dreaming of
Why Coca-Cola is betting big on Diet Cherry Coke
Bringing Diet Cherry Coke back permanently is more than a nostalgia play—it’s a calculated business move. Even amid inflation, unpredictable weather, and global uncertainties, Coca-Cola posted a strong quarter, with sales hitting the upper range of expectations and profits climbing 6% despite currency headwinds. With the beverage market becoming increasingly crowded—even featuring celebrity-backed soda launches in 2025—reviving a proven fan favorite is a smart way to stand out.
Coca-Cola is also leveraging the power of nostalgia. Studies from Worcester Polytechnic Institute show that retiring beloved products can spark intense “nostalgic brand love,” driving passionate communities online. By making Diet Cherry Coke a fixture once and for all, the company is counting on superfans to turn their enthusiasm into real-world sales, proving that a classic flavor can still deliver a modern win.
Sources: Snackolator, Timeout