In the 1990s, there were certain alcoholic beverages that were considered taboo or trendy, depending on the social circles you were a part of. Let's take a closer look at some of these taboo alcohols and the reasons behind their status during that time.
1. Zima: Zima was a clear, carbonated malt beverage that gained popularity in the mid-1990s. It was marketed as a refreshing alternative to beer, but it faced a lot of criticism for its sweet and artificial taste. Despite its initial success, Zima quickly became associated with the younger and less sophisticated crowd, eventually losing its appeal and fading into obscurity.
2. Wine Coolers: Wine coolers had their heyday in the 1980s, but they still maintained some level of popularity in the early 1990s. However, as the decade progressed, wine coolers became less fashionable, especially among more discerning drinkers. Many viewed wine coolers as overly sweet and lacking in complexity, leading to a decline in their popularity and a shift towards more traditional wines.
3. Flavored Vodkas: While vodka itself was not taboo in the 1990s, the emergence of flavored vodkas raised eyebrows among more traditional drinkers. Flavors like bubblegum, cotton candy, and whipped cream seemed gimmicky and artificial to many, and were often associated with younger, less experienced drinkers. However, flavored vodkas did find a niche market among those who enjoyed experimenting with different cocktail combinations.
4. Blue Curacao: Blue Curacao, a bright blue liqueur with an orange flavor, was often considered tacky or kitschy in the 1990s. It was commonly used in tropical-themed cocktails, but its artificial color and overly sweet taste led to its reputation as a taboo ingredient. Despite this, Blue Curacao was still a popular choice for colorful and visually striking drinks at beach parties and themed events.
5. Mad Dog 20/20: Mad Dog 20/20, also known as “MD 20/20” or simply “Mad Dog,” was a fortified wine that gained infamy in the 1990s. It was notorious for its high alcohol content and cheap price, making it a popular choice among underage drinkers and those looking to get drunk quickly. However, its association with binge drinking and its reputation as a low-quality beverage made it a taboo choice among more mature and discerning drinkers.
It's important to note that these alcohol choices being considered taboo in the 1990s was largely subjective and dependent on the social circles and personal preferences of individuals. While some may have frowned upon these beverages, others may have enjoyed them without judgment. As with any era, there were always trends and shifting perceptions of what was considered fashionable or taboo in the world of alcohol.