Drink Simple Maple Water Review: Taste, Packaging & Price Test
There’s something deeply satisfying about discovering a drink that feels as close to nature as it does to your everyday routine. As a lifelong sugarmaker and someone who’s spent many early spring mornings among the sugar maples, I’ve always believed maple isn’t just for pancakes—it’s a living, flowing essence. Today, we’re taking a close, sensory-rich look at Drink Simple maple water, specifically their 12-pack option, to see how it fares on taste, packaging, and price.
Whether you’re already a maple enthusiast or just maple-curious, join me as we pour, sip, and reflect on what makes this Vermont-born beverage worth your consideration.
What Is Drink Simple Maple Water?
If you’re picturing thick amber syrup in a bottle, think again. Maple water is actually the crystal-clear sap that flows from maple trees each spring, before it’s boiled down into syrup. It’s subtly sweet, naturally hydrating, and rich in electrolytes and antioxidants.
Drink Simple, co-founded by former professional triathletes Kate Weiler and Jeff Rose, bottles this refreshing sap directly—no added sugar, no concentrate, just pure maple water. Their focus aligns with what we cherish here at Dragonfly Sugarworks: respecting the tree, bottling the goodness, and sharing Vermont’s liquid heritage.
For more on how sap becomes syrup, see How Maple Syrup Is Made from Tree to Table.
Taste Test: Crisp, Clean & Surprisingly Complex
Let’s start with what matters most: taste.
First sip: cool, soft, and gently sweet. There’s no overpowering sugary kick—instead, it’s reminiscent of fresh spring water, kissed by the faintest caramel note.
Second sip: a light, almost floral aftertaste emerges, which reminds me of the scent that floats around the sugarhouse on boil days.
What stood out:
- Subtle sweetness (about half as sweet as coconut water)
- Zero sticky mouthfeel
- Crisp, refreshing finish—like mountain spring water but with a maple soul
In a blind test with friends and family, words like “pure,” “clean,” and “naturally energizing” kept popping up. It’s definitely not syrupy; instead, it’s more like nature’s sports drink.
If you’re curious about other maple-based wellness drinks, check our guide to Maple Sap vs Maple Syrup: What’s the Difference?.
Packaging: Designed for Convenience & Sustainability
The Drink Simple 12-pack we reviewed comes in sleek, recyclable bottles (12 oz each). Here’s what we noticed:
✅ Lightweight & portable: fits easily in lunchboxes, gym bags, or car cup holders
✅ Clean design: white background with an iconic maple leaf, which feels fresh and modern
✅ Clear labeling: “Only 20 calories per bottle,” “No added sugar,” and “Pure maple water” are printed right on the front
The bottles themselves are PET and fully recyclable. Drink Simple’s commitment to sustainability mirrors the values we’ve always upheld in sugaring: stewardship and respect for our forests.
If you love learning about eco-friendly sugaring, see Sustainable Maple Sugaring Practices.
Price: Fair Value for Vermont Craft
A 12-pack typically retails around $39.99–$42.99, which breaks down to roughly $3.30–$3.60 per bottle.
At first glance, this might feel higher than mass-market flavored waters, but it’s worth remembering:
- This is a single-ingredient craft product
- It’s harvested seasonally and sustainably
- You’re paying for minimal processing—essentially what flows straight from the tree
Compared to premium coconut waters and aloe drinks, Drink Simple sits right in the middle range. And for anyone curious about supporting small-batch Vermont producers, this feels like an honest price for authentic maple hydration.
Want more on maple pricing? See Is Maple Syrup Worth the Cost?.
Pros & Cons at a Glance
✅ Pros
- Naturally hydrating, low calorie, low sugar
- Subtle maple taste, refreshing and versatile
- Eco-conscious packaging
- Sourced and bottled with transparency
⚠️ Cons
- Pricier than plain water
- Flavor might feel too subtle if you expect strong sweetness
- Not always widely stocked in local groceries (but available online)
Best Ways to Enjoy Drink Simple Maple Water
Beyond straight sipping, here are my favorite ways to use it:
- Post-workout hydration: natural electrolytes, no sticky residue
- Smoothies: replace almond milk or coconut water for a hint of maple
- Iced herbal teas: brew your favorite chamomile or mint tea, then chill with maple water for mellow sweetness
- Cocktails & mocktails: pairs beautifully with bourbon, vodka, or fresh lemon
For more maple kitchen creativity, check our Maple-Infused Drinks & Recipes Collection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does Drink Simple maple water taste like?
It’s crisp, clean, and only lightly sweet with subtle caramel and floral notes—far less sweet than syrup.
Is Drink Simple maple water healthy?
Yes, it’s naturally low in calories (about 20 per bottle), contains electrolytes and antioxidants, and has no added sugar.
Does it need refrigeration?
Unopened bottles are shelf-stable. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 3–5 days for best taste.
Where can I buy Drink Simple maple water?
Online retailers like Amazon offer the 12-pack, and some natural food stores and co-ops also stock it.
Final Takeaway: Is Drink Simple Worth Trying?
If you’re seeking a hydrating drink that tastes like a quiet walk in a Vermont sugarbush—and you don’t mind paying a bit extra for authenticity—Drink Simple maple water delivers. The gentle maple character, clean packaging, and sustainable sourcing all make it a standout among today’s wellness waters.
✔️ Taste: light and refreshing, not sugary
✔️ Packaging: clean, portable, recyclable
✔️ Price: fair for small-batch craft hydration
Ready to Taste the Forest?
Bring Vermont’s maple woods to your daily routine. Try the Drink Simple 12-pack and experience what real maple water feels like. Order yours here and raise a bottle to wellness that starts from the tree itself.
