Yes, it really still tastes like coke (sorta)
If you are interested in whether the sugar-sweetened version tastes different: slightly, yes. People with a passion for soda will try to convince you that they can detect the difference between high-fructose corn syrup and cane sugar. It’s sort of the same sentiment some people have that Mexican Coke (which also uses cane sugar) is better. Sweeter. Smoother. Less artificial concerns. The truth is, it boils down to your taste buds. Some people purchase the yellow cap of Coke simply for the taste, even if they don’t know what Passover is.
The official stance is that the flavor is largely consistent. The important thing is uniformity. You aren’t supposed to sip it and think “Ahhh yes, this is a religious accommodation.” It’s just Coke. With different sugar patterns.
