16 Drinks Everyone Assumes They Dislike Until They Take a Sip

Not every drink gets the love it deserves at first sip. Some have bold flavors, quirky ingredients, or unexpected twists that make people hesitate. But once you give them a chance, they might just become your new favorite. This list dives into those misunderstood beverages that surprise and delight when you least expect it. Whether it’s a tangy kombucha or a smoky mezcal, these drinks prove that first impressions don’t always tell the whole story.

Kombucha

Kombucha is a fermented tea known for its tangy and effervescent profile. Rich in probiotics, it supports gut health and digestion. The fermentation process yields a unique taste that can be an acquired preference. Available in various flavors, from fruity to herbal, it caters to diverse palates. Despite its unconventional taste, many find it refreshing and beneficial.

IPA (India Pale Ale)

IPAs are beers characterized by their strong hop bitterness and aromatic profiles. Initially, the intense flavor can be off-putting to some. However, exploring different hop varieties can reveal nuanced tastes, such as citrus or pine notes. Over time, many develop an appreciation for its complexity. Bon Appétit suggests seeking out new hop varieties to discover an IPA that suits your palate.

Dirty Soda

Originating from Utah, dirty soda combines traditional soft drinks with syrups, fruit purées, and creamers. This fusion creates a creamy, flavorful beverage that surprises many first-time tasters. Despite initial skepticism, its popularity has grown, becoming a cultural phenomenon. The New Yorker highlights its unexpected pleasures and widespread appeal.

Ginger Beer

Ginger beer is a non-alcoholic, fermented drink with a robust ginger flavor and natural fizziness. Its spicy kick can be surprising, but it’s often balanced with sweetness. Commonly used in cocktails like the Moscow Mule, it also stands well on its own. A taste test by The Guardian praised certain brands for their spice-sweet balance and fizz.

Matcha Latte

Made from finely ground green tea leaves, matcha lattes offer a rich, earthy flavor. The vibrant green color and unique taste can be unfamiliar, but it’s packed with antioxidants. When combined with milk and a touch of sweetness, it becomes a creamy, enjoyable beverage. Many find that the initial grassy notes become more appealing over time.

Bloody Mary

This classic cocktail blends tomato juice with vodka, spices, and various flavorings like Worcestershire sauce. Its savory profile, often garnished with celery or pickles, is unconventional for a cocktail. Initially, the combination may seem odd, but it’s renowned as a brunch staple and hangover remedy. Bartenders note that while it’s a mess to make, it’s a beloved choice among patrons.

Celery Juice

Celery juice has gained popularity for its purported health benefits. Its slightly salty and vegetal taste can be off-putting at first. However, many find it refreshing and hydrating over time. Incorporating it into smoothies or mixing with other juices can enhance its palatability. Some bars even feature it in cocktails, adding a unique twist to traditional recipes.

Eggnog

Traditionally consumed during the holidays, eggnog is a rich, creamy beverage made with milk, cream, sugar, whipped egg whites, and yolks. Its thick consistency and spiced flavor can be polarizing. Often spiked with rum or bourbon, it offers a warming experience. Despite initial reservations, many come to associate its taste with festive cheer.

Green Smoothies

Blending leafy greens like spinach or kale with fruits creates a nutrient-dense drink. The vibrant green color and vegetal components might deter some. However, the addition of sweet fruits balances the flavors, making it both healthy and tasty. Over time, many find green smoothies a convenient way to increase vegetable intake.

Campari

An Italian aperitif, Campari is known for its bitter and aromatic flavor. Its bright red color is enticing, but the bitterness can be jarring initially. Often used in cocktails like the Negroni, it develops a following among those who enjoy complex, bitter profiles. Over time, many find it stimulates the appetite and becomes a preferred pre-dinner drink.

Green Tea

Unlike black tea, green tea has a more delicate, slightly grassy flavor. Its subtlety might be underwhelming to those accustomed to stronger teas. However, it’s packed with antioxidants and offers various health benefits. Over time, many come to appreciate its gentle taste and calming effects.

Beet Juice

Extracted from beets, this juice has an earthy and sweet flavor. The deep red color is visually striking, but the taste can be polarizing. It’s known to improve athletic performance and lower blood pressure. Mixing it with other fruit juices can make it more palatable. Many find it grows on them as a unique and health-boosting drink.

Aperol Spritz

Aperol Spritz combines Aperol, prosecco, and soda water for a light and bubbly cocktail. While its bitter orange flavor might surprise first-timers, its refreshing balance appeals over time. Served with ice and an orange slice, it’s a favorite summer aperitif. The drink’s popularity has soared worldwide, especially among social drinkers. Its vibrant orange hue adds visual appeal, making it Instagram-worthy.

Sake

Sake, a Japanese rice wine, is brewed differently from Western wines, offering a unique umami profile. It can be served hot or cold, and each temperature highlights different flavors. Novices might find the rice-forward taste unusual, but sake aficionados appreciate its depth and smoothness. Paired with sushi or traditional Japanese dishes, it creates a harmonious dining experience. Experimenting with different types, such as junmai or nigori, often converts skeptics.

Mezcal

Mezcal, a smoky spirit made from agave, offers a bold and intense flavor profile. Its distinct smokiness can be overwhelming for first-timers, but sipping it slowly reveals its complexity. Often compared to tequila, mezcal has a deeper, more nuanced taste. Bartenders love incorporating it into cocktails, such as smoky margaritas or palomas. Exploring artisanal mezcal varieties can open up a world of flavors for adventurous drinkers.

Chai Latte

A chai latte blends black tea with aromatic spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, combined with steamed milk. The spiced flavor can be unexpected for those used to traditional lattes. Its warming and comforting notes make it perfect for chilly days. Many cafes offer variations, such as iced chai lattes or vegan-friendly options with almond milk. Over time, chai lattes often become a favorite for those seeking a flavorful alternative to coffee.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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