Whiskey and Mountain Dew seem like an unlikely duo because of their contrasting flavors and general stark differences. However, it has been mixed over the years, which is what we’ll discuss below. In this article, we will highlight the differences between the two, why people combine them and popular combinations of the two.
Difference Between Mountain Dew and Whiskey
Mountain Dew and Whiskey are “feel good” drinks, mostly drunk during parties. However, they have stark differences. The main difference between the two drinks is that Mountain Dew is a non-alcoholic “soft” drink while Whiskey is an alcoholic “hard” drink. People don’t get intoxicated after drinking Mountain Dew, but with Whiskey, they do, which is what many adults enjoy about it.
Mountain Dew vs Whiskey Comparison Table
| Category that differentiates the two | Mountain Dew | A category that differentiates the two |
| Type of drink | Carbonated soft drink | Distilled alcoholic beverage |
| How it’s made | Top manufacturers include Beam SuntoryBrown FormanDiageoCampari Group and others. | First, grains like barley and wheat are mashed and then fermented. After that, the product is distilled and aged in wooden barrels. |
| Manufacturer | Pepsico | Top manufacturers include: Beam SuntoryBrown FormanDiageoCampari Group and others. |
| Percentage of alcohol in it | 0% | 40-60% depending on the brand and fermented grains used. |
| Taste | Ingredients like carbonated water, high fructose corn syrup, concentrated orange juice, citric acid, and natural flavors are combined. | It entirely depends on the brand and the grains used. Typical tastes of whiskey are: SweetSmokyEarthySpicy |
| Cultural significance | Part of mainstream culture | Sweet and citrusy. The drink has traces of orange, lemon, and lime in it. People usually get a refreshed and energetic feeling after drinking. |
| The price | Quite affordable but varies from one place to another. | More expensive than Mountain Dew but varies from one brand to another. It’s more costly because it takes longer to make and it’s limited. |
| Health benefits | Boosts energy levels.Reduces respiratory muscle fatigue.Has Vitamin B and C, which is good for the immune system. | Alcohol poisoningNausea and vomitingHigh blood pressure high cholesterol heart disease liver disease depression and anxiety increase the risk of many types of cancer like mouth, liver, and colon. Decreases immunityPregnancy issues like premature birth. |
| Health hazards | Linked with traditional social gatherings and celebrations. Whiskey making was considered an art in the olden times.It’s a national pride.Mentioned in many songs and books. | Increase sugar levelsHeighten depression symptomsDental problems like cavitiesHeart disease Increase cholesterol levels weight gain |
| How long it takes to be produced | Relatively quick as it’s made by mixing several ingredients, carbonating it, then packaging and distributing. | Takes a long time as a lot of steps are involved, like fermenting and mashing the grains. Then the product is distilled and aged, which can take years or decades. |
| Where it’s available | In all stores, supermarkets or shops. There are no restrictions on where it’s available. | Primarily found in liquor stores or bars, but can be found in supermarkets sometimes. |
| Who can consume it | Everyone | The age restriction on who can consume whiskey depends on the country. Some countries allow people above 18, while others allow people above 21 to drink it. |
Why are Mountain Dew and Whiskey Mixed Together
Cocktails have gained popularity over the years, and people are always looking for something new to add to their drinks. While both drinks may look like a peculiar duo, it has been mixed together because of the following reasons:
- Because bartenders want to: Bartenders are always looking for something new to give to their customers, so they decided to experiment with Mountain Dew and Whiskey to see how they blend together. They’re always looking for something new to add to their cocktail menu.
- Contrasting tastes: Mountain Dew is sweet and citrusy, while whiskey has a strong, earthy, and spicy flavor. Those who mix both drinks seek to balance both flavors and get a “middle ground” flavor. It’s perfect for those who don’t like too sweet or too strong drinks.
- Making the old new: Whiskey has been there over the years, while Mountain Dew is a new drink. Combining the two creates a modern version of Whiskey.
- The mixture consists of cost-friendly and readily available ingredients: Mountain Dew, and Whiskey are friendly to one’s pockets and can be found worldwide in various stores.
- Mountain Dew was initially created to be a whiskey mixer: The creators found it hard to find any soda that mixed well with whiskey, which is why they created a perfect formulation that complimented the alcoholic beverage.
Well-known Whiskey and Mountain Dew combinations
| Combinations | Ingredients | Garnish | Process of making it |
| Dew-Old Fashioned | Whiskey Ice Mountain Dew | Cherry or orange twist | Make an old-fashioned whiskey like you would typically but substitute the syrup with Mountain Dew and add ice. Lastly, garnish it. |
| Dew-Julep | Whiskey Crushed ice Mountain Dew Mint leaves Dash of bitters | Mint sprig | Combine the ingredients, then stir and garnish the drink. |
| Dew-Sour | Whisky Mountain Dew Fresh lemon juice Syrup Ice | Cherry or lemon wedge | Combine all the ingredients (except ice) and shake them with ice. Then strain it into a glass with ice cubes. Garnish and serve the drink. |
| Dew-Manhattan | Whiskey Mountain Dew Ice Sweet Vermouth Dash of bitters | Cherry | Pour all the ingredients (except ice and Mountain Dew) into a mixing glass. Then stir it with ice and strain it into a glass. Then add the soft drink and garnish it. |
| Dew-Whiskey Smash | Whiskey Mountain Dew Lemon juice Mint leaves | Mint sprig | Mix up all the ingredients in a shaker glass. Shake them and strain the drink into a glass. Lastly, garnish it. |
Takeaway
“Weird” combinations usually bring out the best of blends; one of them is Mountain Dew and Whiskey. Your ancestors may be rolling over their graves over the idea of mixing Mountain Dew and Whiskey, but it has become popular among the youth. The contrasting flavors are what make it a crowd favorite.
