[rogerclark]

IMO, the most distinct flavors in Dr. Pepper are cherry and almond. Benzaldehyde, an "artificial cherry" molecule listed in this spectrometer video, is found in both cherry and almond extracts.

If you're familiar with the taste of amaretto or marzipan, try thinking of those next time you drink a Dr. Pepper. That will unlock the flavor discrimination for you.

[vundercind]

Amaretto is a key ingredient of a Flaming Dr Pepper, which does indeed taste surprisingly close to Dr Pepper.