Why Do Some People Love Drinking Vinegar? A Look at Shrubs & Health Trends

Vinegar isn’t just for salad dressings and pickles anymore. In recent years, more and more people have started drinking vinegar—whether in the form of shrubs, apple cider vinegar shots, or fermented tonics. What was once considered a sharp, puckering ingredient has transformed into a trendy beverage, praised for its health benefits and bold, complex flavors.

But why would anyone voluntarily drink something so acidic? And is it actually enjoyable, or just another health fad? Let’s dive into the world of drinking vinegars to find out.

A Brief History of Drinking Vinegar

Though it might sound like a modern wellness trend, drinking vinegar is nothing new. In fact, people have been sipping vinegar-based drinks for centuries:

• Ancient Rome: Roman soldiers drank a mixture of vinegar and water called posca, believed to provide hydration and strength.
• Japan: Samurai reportedly drank a vinegar tonic for energy and stamina.
• Colonial America: Farmers and laborers cooled off with shrubs, a tangy mix of vinegar, fruit, and sugar.
• Middle Eastern and Ayurvedic Medicine: Vinegar-based tonics were used for digestion, detoxification, and overall wellness.

Fast forward to today, and vinegar is making a comeback—this time in craft cocktails, wellness routines, and high-end culinary circles.

What Does Drinking Vinegar Taste Like?

At first thought, sipping vinegar sounds like an unpleasant experience—after all, it’s known for its sharp acidity and pungent aroma. But well-balanced drinking vinegars, especially shrubs and infused tonics, offer a surprisingly refreshing, complex, and slightly sweet experience.

Here’s what to expect:

• Bright and tart – The acidity wakes up your taste buds, similar to citrus juice.
• Fruity and floral – Many shrubs incorporate berries, apples, citrus, or herbs to round out the vinegar’s sharpness.
• Slightly sweet – A bit of honey, sugar, or maple syrup helps balance the tang, creating a layered, drinkable experience.
• Effervescent (if mixed with soda water) – Many people enjoy shrubs as a non-alcoholic alternative to cocktails, offering a fizzy and flavorful bite.

A good drinking vinegar should feel bold yet balanced, not like you’re chugging straight pickle juice.

Why Do People Love Drinking Vinegar?

1. It’s a Flavor Powerhouse

For those who enjoy bold, tart, and slightly funky flavors, vinegar-based drinks provide an exciting alternative to sugary sodas or overly sweet juices. Fans of kombucha, sour beers, or citrus-heavy cocktails often find that drinking vinegar fits right into their taste preferences.

2. Health Benefits (or Hype?)

Many claim that drinking vinegar—especially apple cider vinegar (ACV) or shrubs—can support digestion, gut health, and even weight loss. While some benefits are backed by science, others lean more into anecdotal territory:

• Aids digestion – The acidity may help stimulate digestion, similar to lemon water.
• Supports gut health – Unfiltered vinegars like ACV contain probiotics that may promote a healthy microbiome.
• May help regulate blood sugar – Some studies suggest that vinegar can improve insulin sensitivity after meals.
• Potential appetite control – The acidity might create a feeling of fullness, reducing snacking.

However, while vinegar can be a healthy addition to a diet, it’s not a magic cure-all. Experts recommend drinking it diluted to protect tooth enamel and the digestive tract.

3. A Low-Sugar, Non-Alcoholic Alternative

As more people seek alcohol-free options with complexity and depth, vinegar-based drinks have become a favorite in mixology and sober-curious circles. A well-crafted shrub mixed with sparkling water can offer the same satisfying bite as a cocktail—without the booze.

4. Nostalgia & Tradition

For some, drinking vinegar connects them to family traditions and cultural heritage. Many Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines use vinegar-based tonics, and shrubs were once a staple of early American farm life. Bringing these flavors back feels both nostalgic and modern.

How to Try Drinking Vinegar (and Actually Enjoy It!)

If the idea of sipping vinegar sounds intense, here are some beginner-friendly ways to ease into the trend:

1. Start with a Shrub

Shrubs are the most approachable way to enjoy drinking vinegar. Look for options flavored with berries, citrus, ginger, or herbs, and mix them with sparkling water for a bright, refreshing drink.

2. Dilute It Well

If you’re drinking apple cider vinegar for health reasons, avoid taking straight shots (which can be harsh on your teeth and stomach). Instead, try:

• 1 tablespoon of vinegar in a large glass of water
• Mixing with honey, lemon, or ginger for added depth

3. Use It in Cocktails & Mocktails

Bartenders have been using shrubs in cocktails for years. Try replacing citrus juice with a flavored vinegar in a margarita, spritz, or whiskey sour.

4. Experiment with Flavors

Not all vinegars taste the same! Balsamic vinegar is rich and sweet, rice vinegar is light and mellow, and fruit-infused vinegars bring natural sweetness. Find what works for your palate.

Final Verdict: Should You Try Drinking Vinegar?

At first glance, the idea of drinking vinegar may seem strange or unappealing, but for those who love bold flavors, digestive benefits, and creative beverages, it can be an exciting addition to the table. Whether in the form of a fruity shrub, a tart cocktail mixer, or a probiotic-rich tonic, drinking vinegar has earned its place in modern food culture.

So, is it just another health trend, or is it here to stay? The real question is—would you take a sip?