The oldest flavor of Mountain Dew was originally lemon-lime, similar to popular drinks like 7-Up or Sprite. This flavor was created by the Hartman brothers, who initially developed Mountain Dew as a mixer for hard liquor. The brothers had a playful sense of humor and jokingly referred to the drink as resembling a fine Tennessee moonshine when mixed with alcohol, hence the name “Mountain Dew.”
The choice of a lemon-lime flavor for the original Mountain Dew was not uncommon at the time. Lemon-lime sodas were gaining popularity, and the refreshing citrus taste was widely enjoyed. The Hartman brothers saw an opportunity to create a unique beverage that could be used as a mixer for alcoholic drinks, providing a different flavor profile compared to traditional colas or ginger ales.
It is interesting to note that the name “Mountain Dew” itself has roots in moonshine culture. Moonshine, a high-proof distilled spirit often produced illegally, was commonly referred to as “mountain dew” due to its association with rural, mountainous regions where it was often produced in secret. The Hartman brothers cleverly played on this association, further emphasizing the connection between their drink and moonshine by naming it Mountain Dew.
While the lemon-lime flavor was the original taste of Mountain Dew, it eventually evolved and expanded its flavor offerings over the years. Today, Mountain Dew is known for its wide range of bold and unique flavors, including Code Red, Voltage, Baja Blast, and many others. These variations have helped Mountain Dew become a popular brand with a dedicated fan base.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I appreciate the creativity and innovation behind the development of Mountain Dew. The decision to create a lemon-lime flavor as a mixer for hard liquor was a strategic move that allowed Mountain Dew to differentiate itself from other carbonated beverages. It provided consumers with a refreshing and tangy option, especially when mixed with their favorite spirits.
In my experience, I have come across various beverages that have evolved and adapted their flavors over time. It is common for brands to experiment with new tastes in order to cater to changing consumer preferences and to stay relevant in a competitive market. Mountain Dew's expansion into different flavors is a testament to their willingness to adapt and offer something new to their customers.
The oldest flavor of Mountain Dew is the lemon-lime variety, which was the original taste created by the Hartman brothers. This flavor, with its roots in moonshine culture, served as a mixer for hard liquor and eventually paved the way for the wide range of flavors that Mountain Dew offers today.
