Combining the citrus-flavored soft drink Mountain Dew with various alcoholic beverages and mixers creates a category of mixed drinks offering a unique flavor profile. These concoctions range from simple highballs with vodka or rum to more complex mixes incorporating fruit juices, liqueurs, and other ingredients. A classic example involves blending the soda with whiskey and a splash of lemon juice.
The appeal of these beverages lies in their balance of sweetness, tartness, and the familiar carbonation of the soft drink. They provide a readily available and often budget-friendly option for casual gatherings or parties. While the specific origin of mixing alcoholic beverages with this particular soda is difficult to pinpoint, it likely emerged alongside the broader trend of mixing cocktails with soft drinks in the mid-20th century. This trend coincides with the rise in popularity of convenience foods and beverages.