Getting a buzz on a budget is a tale as old as time. Throughout history, the “economically savvy” (a.k.a. the poor) have found ingenious ways to enjoy a drink without breaking the bank. Let’s take a whimsical journey through time and see how people have managed to get tipsy on a tight budget.
Ancient Times: Mead, the Nectar of the Gods
Long before craft beers and fancy cocktails, our ancient ancestors discovered mead. This honey-based brew was cheap and easy to make. All you needed was honey, water, and a little fermentation magic. Mead was the drink of choice for everyone from Egyptian peasants to Viking warriors, proving that even in ancient times, folks knew how to party on a budget.
Medieval Europe: Ale and Cheap Wine
In medieval Europe, ale was the beverage of choice for the common folk. Brewing ale at home was a common practice, and since water quality was often questionable, ale was the safer (and tastier) alternative. Meanwhile, in regions with abundant vineyards, cheap, young wine flowed freely, ensuring that even the poorest peasants could enjoy a tipsy evening.
Colonial America: Applejack and Hard Cider
Fast forward to colonial America, where applejack and hard cider were all the rage. Apples were plentiful, and turning them into booze was an easy and economical way to ensure a good time. Applejack, made by freeze-distilling cider, packed an extra punch, giving colonial revelers a potent drink without the need for expensive distillation equipment.
The Industrial Revolution: Gin Craze
Ah, the Gin Craze of 18th-century England. Cheap, potent, and readily available, gin became the go-to drink for London’s working class. Often produced in questionable conditions and nicknamed “Mother’s Ruin,” gin was both a blessing and a curse. Despite its dubious reputation, it was a cheap way to forget the hardships of industrial life, at least for a little while.
The Great Depression: Bathtub Gin and Homebrew
During the Great Depression, creativity in booze-making soared. With little money to spare, people turned to making their own alcohol at home. Bathtub gin, made with dubious ingredients and questionable methods, became infamous. Homebrewing beer also saw a resurgence, allowing people to enjoy a drink without spending what little money they had.
Prohibition Era: Moonshine and Speakeasies
The Prohibition era in the United States brought out the bootleggers and moonshiners. Moonshine, a high-proof distilled spirit made in homemade stills, became the drink of choice for those looking to evade the law and enjoy a cheap buzz. Speakeasies, secret bars that sold illegal alcohol, popped up everywhere, offering a clandestine and often affordable way to drink.
Post-War Era: Cheap Beer and Boxed Wine
In the mid-20th century, mass production brought cheap beer to the masses. Brands like Pabst Blue Ribbon and Schlitz became household names, providing affordable drinking options. Meanwhile, boxed wine emerged as a budget-friendly alternative to traditional bottles, offering more bang for the buck.
Modern Times: Crafty Cocktails and Budget Booze
Today, the spirit of frugal drinking lives on. Homebrewing has become a popular hobby, and DIY cocktail kits allow even the most cash-strapped to enjoy fancy drinks. Stores like Trader Joe’s offer surprisingly good wines at rock-bottom prices, and cheap beer is still a staple at many a party.
Conclusion
From ancient mead to modern boxed wine, getting a buzz on a budget has been a constant through the ages. The methods may have changed, but the goal remains the same: enjoying a good drink without spending a fortune. So next time you raise a glass, remember the ingenuity and resourcefulness of those who came before you. Cheers to budget boozing!
