A fun fact about ginger ale is its surprising role during the Prohibition era in the United States.
Ginger Ale's Secret Life During Prohibition
During the Prohibition era (1920-1933) in the United States, when the production, importation, transportation, and sale of alcoholic beverages were banned, ginger ale experienced a significant surge in popularity.
Why did ginger ale become so popular during this time? The key reason was its ability to effectively mask the smell and taste of alcohol. This made it an ideal mixer for the illegal alcoholic concoctions being made and consumed, often referred to as "bootlegged" spirits.
How Ginger Ale Helped
- Masking Aroma: The strong, distinct aroma of ginger and the fizziness of the soda could help hide the often harsh smell of homemade or illicitly produced alcohol.
- Improving Taste: Bootlegged spirits were frequently of poor quality and taste. Mixing them with ginger ale made them more palatable.
- Clandestine Use: This practical benefit cemented ginger ale's place in the history of mixology, not just for legal drinks but also for clandestine ones during a significant period of American history.
This era of clandestine use highlights how ginger ale became a secret weapon for those looking to enjoy alcoholic drinks despite the legal restrictions, further boosting its profile and ensuring its lasting presence in bars and homes long after Prohibition ended.
Reference source: Unveiling Ginger Ale's Intriguing History (www.tayportdistillery.com)
