I think just because it was Romulan. I’ve always assumed it was supposed to be analogous to Cuban cigars: as in one of those things that were technically illegal, but people always managed to get their hands on them.
Julian Bashir ordered a glass of Romulan ale in Quark’s in 2375. (DS9: “Covenant”)
This was possible as Romulan ale had been legal in 2375 during the Dominion War, when the embargo was lifted as part of the alliance between the Federation and the Romulans. It was served aboard the USS Bellerophon on its way to Romulus and on the planet itself during a reception. Senator Cretak, Admiral Ross, and Doctor Bashir shared a glass of the drink in the mess hall of the USS Bellerophon. (DS9: “Inter Arma Enim Silent Leges”)
Did they ever explain why it was supposed to be illegal?
Trade embargo.
“Benefit”
Yet the rate of consumption within the Federation went unchanged.
Romulan Ale is the marijuana of Star Trek.
Pretty sure whatever that shit Raffi was vaping is the marijuana of Star Trek.
I think just because it was Romulan. I’ve always assumed it was supposed to be analogous to Cuban cigars: as in one of those things that were technically illegal, but people always managed to get their hands on them.
Bingo. Per Memory Alpha: