Walt Disney World Resort guests are noticing changes at EPCOT, and some are questioning whether they reflect a larger trend. A popular Chinese beverage has been quietly removed from Club Cool, the Coca-Cola tasting store in World Celebration, sparking speculation about what it could mean.
A Sudden Disappearance at Club Cool
Club Cool, located near Connections Café and Creations Shop, is known for offering free samples of soft drinks from around the world. The lineup has changed over the years, but one beverage removal has caught guests’ attention: Suan Mei Tang, or Sour Plum Tea, from China.
According to WDWNT, the drink has disappeared from all self-serve fountains at the location. The official description of the beverage previously stated:
“Suan Mei Tang or Sour Plum Tea is a traditional Chinese beverage that has existed for over 1,000 years. Smart Sour Plum has a savory, sweet and tart flavor that is considered by many to be the ultimate sparkling thirst quencher on a hot day.”
Now, stickers reading “Please Try Another Flavor” have replaced the Smart Sour Plum labels. Walt Disney World Resort has not addressed whether the drink will return.
A Political Connection?
The timing of the drink’s removal has raised eyebrows. The change comes just as former President Donald Trump returns to office, reviving trade tensions with China. The country recently announced tariffs on U.S. imports following Trump’s renewed push for additional tariffs on steel and aluminum.
While there is no direct confirmation that these political events influenced the disappearance of Sour Plum Tea, some Disney Park guests are drawing their own conclusions. Given that The Walt Disney Company carefully curates its in-park offerings, even small changes can take on a greater meaning.
Past Disruptions at Club Cool
Club Cool has cycled through various international beverages over the years, sometimes due to supply chain issues or Coca-Cola’s decisions. Some drinks have disappeared for months before returning to the lineup. Whether China’s Sour Plum Tea is gone for good remains to be seen.
Guests can still visit the China Pavilion in EPCOT’s World Showcase, which remains fully operational. But as Disney continues to adjust its in-park offerings, some wonder whether this small change signals something bigger.
Have you tried the infamous Beverly in Club Cool at EPCOT? Disney Dining would love to hear from you in the comments!
