In this article...
At Totally Wicked, we've been pushing the boundaries of vaping since 2008. Over the last 17 years we've created flavours that transport you to exotic lands, take you back to cherished memories, and, in some cases, vape flavours that make you question whether we secretly hate our customers.
From classic cocktails to festive treats, herbal infusions to political nightmares, we've made it all. But just because we could doesn't always mean we should.
But our innovation isn't all wild experiments and questionable decisions – we've also spent years perfecting our flavour development. Through rigorous testing, customer feedback, and the occasional “let's pretend this never happened” moment, we've developed a solid understanding of flavour profiles, and we've figured out what works (and what really, really doesn't).
So, let's take a trip down memory lane at some of our more... “experimental” creations. Are these the worst e-liquid flavours we ever made? You decide.
Festive, But Make It Questionable
Ah, Christmas – the season of joy, goodwill, and, apparently, some truly questionable e-liquid decisions. In our enthusiasm to capture the magic of the holidays, we may have strayed a little too far into "just because you've thought of it, doesn't necessarily mean it's a good idea" territory.
Here are a couple that deserve a special mention- for better or (mostly) worse.
Pigs in Blankets
Bacon-wrapped sausages are a culinary masterpiece. But vaping them? Let's just say it tasted a bit like someone set fire to a butcher's shop and you got stuck in the crossfire – smoky, overwhelming, and slightly traumatic.
Some things are perfect as they are and shouldn't be messed with. We admit it, this one was a sacrilege that should've never left the lab – a crime against both Christmas and humanity.
Mulled Wine
If you've ever wanted to vape a scented Christmas candle, congratulations, your wish has been granted. Spiced, warming, and just a little too reminiscent of potpourri. We'll probably stick to the real thing in future.
One we got right:
That said, not all our Christmas flavours have been festive fiascos. If you're after some warming festive cheer in a bottle, Red Label Gingerbread Latte is the one to try. Originally a limited edition, this warm, spiced classic was such a hit that we made it a permanent fixture.
The Election Range – Because Nothing Says “Delicious” Like Politics
Politics and vaping – two things that probably shouldn't mix, yet here we are. In what can only be described as a moment of creative recklessness, we thought it would be a great idea to capture the essence of key political figures in e-liquid form. The results? As divisive as the politicians themselves.
Some flavours left a lasting impression. Others left us questioning our life choices. Here are two that deserve a special mention.
Farage's Lunchtime Tipple
Tobacco, beer, and espresso... because apparently, our flavour developers lost a bet. Somewhere in the lab, someone actually said, "You know what would be great? The taste of a half-smoked cigar dunked in a stale pint, with just a hint of espresso." And for some reason, nobody stopped them.
May's Brexit Brunch
What does blueberry and raspberry yoghurt have to do with Brexit? We're still not sure, but much like Brexit itself, this vape leaves a lingering aftertaste of confusion and no one can quite agree if it was worth it.
One we got right:
But thankfully, not all our flavours are quite so divisive. VLTZ Sweet Strawberry and Red Label Raspberry Apple are proof that sometimes, simplicity wins.
These are Great British classics done right, the perfect balance of freshness and fruitiness – sweet, sun-ripened strawberries and the crisp, juicy blend of apples and raspberries. No debate needed, just bright, refreshing flavours done right.
The Herbal Range - Who Asked for This?
At some point, on a seemingly dull day in the office, we convinced ourselves that fruit, menthol, and dessert flavours were just too mainstream. What was vaping missing? An apothecary experiment gone wrong!
Enter the Herbal Range- a collection of flavours with all the charm of a medieval remedy but none of the supposed health benefits.
If you've ever wanted to vape your garden or inhale your spice rack, congratulations- this was the range for you. For everyone else? Well... let's just say we won't be making that mistake again.
Corydalis & Peppermint
Corydalis, peppermint, black pepper, and menthol. If you've ever wondered what vaping a garden centre feels like, here's your answer.
Frankincense & Almond
Spiced almonds with a scent of ancient religious ceremonies. For those of you who ever wanted to inhale the scent of a Christmas nativity scene, this one's for you.
Mountain Pepper
Menthol, sweet flag (a tall perennial wetland monocot in case you were wondering), and spices. A bit like getting punched in the throat by a snowman with a pepper grinder.
Blush Spice
Basil, coriander, beet juice, and spices – because sometimes, your salad dressing just isn't inhalable enough.
Clary Sage & Nutmeg
Spicy, earthy, intense. Ever wondered what an ancient spell book tastes like? This might be it. If a Victorian apothecary bottled their best-selling tonic and told you it cured all ailments- including joy – this would be it.
One we got right:
While these flavours might not have been everyone's cup of (herbal) tea, if you're after that fresh breath of mountain air but in something a little less experimental, we've got you covered.
Red Label Iced Blackcurrant is one of our long-standing best-sellers for a reason, it delivers a crisp, refreshing burst of juicy blackcurrants with just the right amount of an icy twist. Meanwhile, for those who like full-on flavour, VLTZ Blackcurrant Ice turns up the intensity with a bolder, sweeter hit.
Baked to Perfection... Sort of.
Baking-inspired vapes should be a safe bet – who doesn't love the comforting taste of warm pastry, sweet spice, and creamy goodness? Well, in theory, we agree. In practice? Let's just say things didn't always come out of the oven as planned.
Lemon Tart
On paper, this should have been a winner- tangy lemon curd, flaky pastry, creamy custard. Instead, some say it tasted distinctly like, well,.... Cheesy Wotsits (other cheese-based snacks are available). How did we get here? Maybe the buttery pastry notes went rogue. Maybe the citrus tang collided with vanilla in an unholy way. Either way, it's a vape that's either a delicate lemon treat or a cheddar-tainted disaster. Enjoy? Maybe?
Danish Swirl
The first puff is warm, buttery cinnamon heaven. The second is a comforting hug. The third? Like a Danish pastry is trying to choke you out. If you like the feeling of a Lidl bakery aggressively invading your mouth, this is the vape for you. For everyone else, approach with caution.
One we got right:
Not all our dessert flavours have flopped like a soggy bottom. Some have been a Hollywood handshake in an e-liquid. Take Red Label Eton Mess– a perfect storm of sweet meringue, juicy strawberries, and a touch of cream.
Or VLTZ Banana Ice, blending ripe, creamy banana with an ice-cold finish for a refreshingly smooth treat. No mystery cheese, no existential crises- just proper, satisfying flavours that actually work. These ones get Star Baker, no question.
A Flavour Hangover
The Odyssey device range might be fondly remembered by some of our customers, but the Odyssey e-liquid range? Well, let's just say it left a different kind of legacy. When we asked our Technical Director, Liam Humberstone to reminisce about this collection, his response was pretty blunt:
“Eight of the most disgusting concoctions ever to leave our premises. And there were only ten in the range- the other two weren't so great either. Universally vile.”
Hard to argue with that.
In our defence, this was some years ago, and we like to think we’ve got a LOT better at our judgment around flavour since then. Lessons were learned, palates were refined, and we solemnly swear never to let anything this catastrophic happen again.
Somehow, we managed to pick four that deserve a special mention- though, in truth, they all belonged in the vaping hall of shame.
Mojito
Ever wanted to feel like you’ve just licked a mojito-scented candle? No? Well, too bad. Crisp lime and mint. Like brushing your teeth and then immediately downing a can of Sprite. Delicious.
Sweet Dreams
Absinthe and sweet fruits. Fun fact: this flavour was inspired by the dream where we thought this was a good idea.
Cuba Libre
A rum and cola vape? What could go wrong? Apparently, quite a lot. The first puff is intriguing, the second is confusing, and by the third, you realise you’re essentially inhaling a sailor's poor life choices.
Strawberry Daiquiri
Imagine a strawberry daiquiri. Now, imagine it left on the bar overnight, slightly warm, and missing something... oh yes, the fun.
One we got right
But some of our fruit blends capture that cocktail-inspired refreshment just right. If you’re looking for a fruity flavour that hits the mark VLTZ Strawberry Raspberry Cherry Ice is a vibrant mix of juicy berries with a cool, crisp finish- like the perfect frozen cocktail on a summer day.
Or if you prefer something with slightly less intense flavour, Red Label Blueberry Raspberry Breeze brings the sweet, tangy balance of blueberries and raspberries with a refreshing twist. All the fun of a great cocktail without the need for a tiny umbrella.
The People’s Verdict: Love It or Loathe It?
Of course, we're not the only ones with strong opinions on e-liquid flavours- our customers have plenty to say too. We asked, via our Facebook Group, about the worst e-liquids you’d ever tried, and you definitely didn't hold back!
Tobacco – A Timeless Classic or an Acquired Taste?
Tobacco flavours proved to be the ultimate love-it-or-hate-it option, splitting opinion like no other. Some of you won't touch anything else, swearing off anything fruity or sweet. But for others, it was a firm no, with comparisons to "sucking on an old ashtray" making it clear that not everyone's a fan.
Safe to say, it's a divisive one, but either way, it's been a staple flavour since the early days of vaping, and it's not going anywhere. For those who swear by it, we've got 25 varieties, from straight-up tobacco for the purists to tropical tobacco for the daredevils. Not a fan? No problem- there are over 100 other flavours across our e-liquid ranges to discover, all blissfully free of “eau de ashtray.”
Fruity Flavours – Fresh and Fun or a Flavour Gamble?
Fruity blends also sparked debate. For many, they're a refreshing way to move beyond traditional tobacco flavours, with Blackcurrant, Aniseed, and Coconut getting plenty of love.
But as with all things, taste is personal- what's deliciously sweet to some might be a little too much for others. Strawberry e-liquid – sweet, refreshing and delicious, or sickly and overpowering? It's your call.
Citrus – Zesty Delight or Cleaning Product?
Lemon had a bit of a rough ride in our poll. Some people love that fresh, citrusy zing. Others? Well, let's just say “like vaping floor cleaner” isn't exactly a glowing review.
But if you're all about that fresh, tangy goodness, Red Label Lemon Lime is a must-try. Looking for something with even more of a citrus punch? VLTZ Lemon Limeade is packed with bold, zesty flavour that delivers a serious citrus hit.
The Wild Ones – Brave or a Bad Idea?
Now, for the truly unhinged flavours that you'd tried. Roast Beef? Bacon? Not guilty- but hey, our flavour developers are a curious bunch, so never say never. That being said, the general consensus is that some things are best left as food rather than e-liquid.,
Cinnamon and Coffee also found themselves in the “never again” category for a few voters, proving that bold flavours can be a risky business.
But if you like trying something a bit different, we've got some less offensive wild cards for you:
- Red Label Black Magic - A rich blend of coffee, smooth tobacco, and dark chocolate.
- Red Label Scottish Soda - Fizzy, fruity, and a nod to Scotland's favourite soft drink.
- VLTZ Rainbow Burst - A festival of flavours with blackcurrant, orange, strawberry, and lemonade, all with a refreshing finish.
No Roast Dinner vape (yet), but who knows? We're always up for a challenge.
Should We Apologise for the Worst Vape Flavours?
Look, we gave it our best shot. Some of the e-liquid flavours we've created over the years were masterpieces, while others... Well, let's just say they ended up in the “limited edition” pile for a reason.
But through all the hits and misses, we've spent years fine-tuning our flavours, listening to customer feedback, and figuring out what truly makes a great e-liquid. The truth is, we love pushing boundaries- and honestly, we wouldn't have it any other way.
One thing's for sure, flavour is personal. What's a disaster for one person is a must-have for another. Some vapers stay loyal to the classics, others chase the weird and wonderful, and a few are still recovering from past mistakes. Either way, we'll keep creating, experimenting, and occasionally learning the hard way.
So, are these the worst e-liquid flavours we've ever made? Maybe. But will that stop us from testing the limits of taste and decency in the future? Absolutely not.
