TORQ Energy Gel Flavour Ranking: From Lemon to Apple Crumble – Our Taste Test Results

Choosing the right energy gel for your endurance event isn’t just about nutrition – flavour matters too. A gel that tastes great can make the difference between a consistent fuelling strategy and a mid-race gag reflex. TORQ offers a range of energy gels designed to deliver rapid carbohydrate energy without the sickly sweetness that plagues many competitors. But with flavours ranging from classic citrus to dessert-inspired treats, which one should you pack for your next ride or run?

We put several TORQ Energy Gel flavours to the test, focusing on taste, texture, aftertaste, and how they sit during exercise. Our ranking is based on real-world feedback from athletes of different disciplines. Whether you’re a marathon runner, a cyclist, or a triathlete, this guide will help you find your perfect gel. We’ll also touch on how to pair flavours with your hydration plan, especially if you’re using a drink like the Lime & Lemon Flavour TORQ Energy.

The Contenders: Which TORQ Gels Did We Sample?

We selected five popular TORQ Energy Gel flavours for our taste test: Forest Fruits (with Guarana), Rhubarb & Custard, Apple Crumble, Lemon Drizzle, and Cola Caffeine. Each gel is designed to deliver 30g of carbohydrate in a convenient sachet, with a consistent texture that’s neither too runny nor too thick. The inclusion of natural flavours and, in some cases, caffeine or guarana, adds a functional twist.

Our testers included road cyclists, trail runners, and a triathlete, all of whom consumed the gels during moderate-to-high intensity sessions of at least 90 minutes. We rated each gel on a scale of 1-10 for taste, texture, and overall satisfaction. The goal was to identify which flavours you’d actually look forward to opening mid-race.

• Forest Fruits (with Guarana) – berry sweetness with a mild energy boost from guarana.
• Rhubarb & Custard – a nostalgic dessert flavour that’s surprisingly refreshing.
• Apple Crumble – warm, comforting notes of baked apple with a hint of cinnamon.
• Lemon Drizzle – bright, zesty citrus that cuts through fatigue.
• Cola Caffeine – classic cola taste with a caffeine kick for late-race focus.

Flavour-by-Flavour Breakdown: What We Liked (and Didn’t)

Starting with the Forest Fruits (with Guarana) Energy Gel, our testers appreciated the natural berry flavour that wasn’t overly sweet. The guarana provided a gentle lift without the jitters associated with high caffeine doses. One trail runner noted it paired well with water on a hot day. However, a few found the berry taste a bit subtle for their liking – they wanted more punch.

The Rhubarb & Custard Energy Gel divided opinions. Fans loved the nostalgic comfort, describing it as 'a dessert you can eat on the go.' Others felt the custard note was a tad cloying after the first sachet. Texture-wise, it’s smooth and easy to swallow, making it a solid choice for those who prefer a thicker gel. It’s definitely one for athletes who enjoy sweeter profiles.

Apple Crumble was a unanimous favourite. Testers praised its authentic baked apple taste with a hint of spice – it didn’t taste artificial. One cyclist said it was the only gel they could tolerate during a 5-hour ride. The flavour is mild enough not to overwhelm, yet distinct enough to feel like a treat. It’s a strong contender for the top spot if you prefer dessert-inspired gels.

• Forest Fruits: Best for athletes who want a subtle, natural berry flavour with a mild energy lift.
• Rhubarb & Custard: Ideal for sweet-toothed athletes who enjoy nostalgic dessert flavours.
• Apple Crumble: A crowd-pleaser with a comforting, authentic taste that works well for long events.

Lemon Drizzle vs. Cola Caffeine: The Citrus and Classic Showdown

Lemon Drizzle is a zesty, refreshing option that cuts through the monotony of long efforts. Our testers found its bright citrus profile invigorating, especially during hot weather. The texture is slightly thinner than other flavours, which some liked for quick swallowing. However, a couple of testers noted a mild artificial aftertaste that lingered – not a dealbreaker, but worth considering if you’re sensitive to sweeteners.

Cola Caffeine delivers exactly what it promises: a familiar cola taste with 75mg of caffeine per gel. It’s a go-to for late-race energy when you need both carbs and a mental boost. Testers appreciated that it wasn’t overly carbonated (no fizziness), and the caffeine hit was noticeable without being harsh. One runner said it was their favourite for the final 10K of a marathon. If you’re looking for a caffeine option, this is a reliable pick.

When comparing the two, Lemon Drizzle wins on refreshment, while Cola Caffeine wins on functionality. Your choice depends on whether you prioritise taste or a caffeine boost. As a side note, if you’re using the Lime & Lemon Flavour TORQ Energy in your bottles, the Lemon Drizzle gel creates a harmonious citrus theme that can be mentally pleasing.

• Lemon Drizzle: Best for hot days and athletes who want a clean, citrus taste.
• Cola Caffeine: Ideal for late-race fuelling when you need a mental and physical lift.
• Pairing tip: Combine Lemon Drizzle gel with Lime & Lemon Flavour TORQ Energy for a consistent citrus hydration strategy.

Our Final Ranking: Which TORQ Energy Gel Flavour Tops the List?

After tallying scores from all testers, here’s our ranking from least favourite to absolute favourite. Keep in mind that taste is subjective – your personal preference may vary depending on your palate and the type of exercise you’re doing.

5th place: Rhubarb & Custard – A divisive flavour that’s too sweet for some, but a nostalgic treat for others. It’s a solid choice if you love dessert gels, but it didn’t win over the majority.

4th place: Forest Fruits (with Guarana) – A pleasant, natural berry flavour that’s let down by being a bit too subtle. The guarana is a nice touch, but the taste could be bolder.

3rd place: Cola Caffeine – A reliable classic that delivers on both taste and function. It’s not the most exciting flavour, but it’s effective, especially when you need caffeine.

2nd place: Lemon Drizzle – Bright, zesty, and refreshing. It’s a top contender for hot-weather events and pairs beautifully with citrus hydration. The slight aftertaste keeps it from the top spot.

1st place: Apple Crumble – The unanimous winner. Its authentic, comforting flavour makes it a joy to consume, even after hours of effort. It’s versatile, not too sweet, and works for a wide range of athletes. If you’re new to TORQ gels, this is the one to try first.

• Apple Crumble takes the crown for its balanced, comforting taste that appeals to most athletes.
• Lemon Drizzle is a close second, especially for those who prefer citrus flavours.
• Experiment with different flavours to find your personal favourite – variety can help prevent flavour fatigue during long events.

Flavour fatigue is a real challenge during long endurance events, but TORQ’s range of energy gels means you can mix and match to keep your taste buds engaged. Whether you’re drawn to the zesty brightness of Lemon Drizzle or the comforting warmth of Apple Crumble, there’s a gel that will fuel your performance without making you dread the next sachet. Ready to stock up? Explore the full range and find your favourite – the Apple Crumble Energy Gel is a great place to start if you’re after a proven crowd-pleaser.