Mountain Dew, the iconic citrus-flavored soda that has won the hearts of millions, is known for its bold and refreshing taste. While it’s a beloved soft drink on its own, some whiskey enthusiasts have found a curious connection between Mountain Dew and their favorite spirit. In this blog post, we’ll explore the intriguing history of Mountain Dew and its unexpected connection with whiskey.
1. The Birth of Mountain Dew
Mountain Dew was created in the 1940s by Barney and Ally Hartman, two beverage bottlers from Tennessee. The original idea behind the name “Mountain Dew” came from a slang term for homemade whiskey, which was often called “moonshine” or “mountain dew” in the Appalachian region. The original Mountain Dew was a lemon-lime flavored soda, but its name hinted at a potential connection to the world of whiskey from the very beginning.
2. The Transition to Citrus Flavor
In the 1960s, the rights to Mountain Dew were acquired by the Tip Corporation of Marion, Virginia. Under their ownership, the flavor of Mountain Dew shifted from lemon-lime to the bold and citrusy taste that we know today. This transition helped solidify Mountain Dew’s place as one of the most popular soft drinks in the world.
3. Mountain Dew and Whiskey: A Match Made in Appalachia
As Mountain Dew’s popularity spread, particularly in the Appalachian region, a curious trend emerged. Some locals began mixing Mountain Dew with their favorite whiskey, creating a cocktail that became known as “Mountain Dew and Moonshine” or simply “Dewshine.” The combination of the soda’s citrusy kick with the smoothness of whiskey appealed to many, especially those with a taste for the traditional flavors of the region.
4. The Rise of the Dewshine Trend
The Dewshine trend gained traction in the 2000s, thanks in part to social media and word-of-mouth. People across the country began experimenting with mixing Mountain Dew with various types of whiskey, such as bourbon or Tennessee whiskey, and even creating their own versions of the Dewshine cocktail.
5. Enjoying Dewshine Responsibly
As with any alcoholic beverage, it’s essential to consume Dewshine and similar cocktails responsibly. The combination of Mountain Dew’s caffeine and sugar content with the effects of whiskey can make it easy to overindulge, leading to potential health risks and impaired judgment. It’s always best to enjoy Dewshine in moderation and be mindful of the alcohol content.
Conclusion
While Mountain Dew was not specifically created for whiskey, its name and citrusy flavor have forged an intriguing connection with the world of spirits. From its humble beginnings as a lemon-lime soda inspired by the slang term for homemade whiskey to its modern-day popularity as a mixer with various types of whiskey, Mountain Dew has left an indelible mark on the world of beverages.
Whether you choose to enjoy Mountain Dew on its own or experiment with mixing it with your favorite whiskey, the key is to embrace the spirit of exploration and enjoyment. As you sip your Dewshine cocktail, savor the unique blend of flavors and raise a glass to the curious connection between Mountain Dew and whiskey. Cheers to the vibrant world of beverage history and the delightful surprises it brings!