When it comes to the 80s, there’s no denying that wine coolers were all the rage. These refreshing and fruity drinks became incredibly popular among young adults looking for a light and fun beverage. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore some of the iconic brands that dominated the wine cooler scene during that vibrant era.
1. Zima
One brand that quickly became synonymous with wine coolers in the 80s was Zima. Introduced by the Coors Brewing Company in 1993, this clear malt beverage combined a hint of citrus with a touch of sweetness, creating a tantalizing flavor profile. Zima gained an instant following and became a go-to choice for those seeking a crisp and refreshing drink.
2. Bartles & Jaymes
Bartles & Jaymes, known for their memorable commercials featuring two fictitious men named Frank Bartles and Ed Jaymes, also made a significant impact in the wine cooler market during the 80s. They made a wise decision to switch their recipe from wine-based to malt-based, allowing them to diversify their flavors and appeal to a broader consumer base.
3. Boones Farm
Another brand that made waves in the 80s was Boones Farm. Known for their affordable and easy-to-drink wine coolers, Boones Farm created a wide range of flavors that appealed to the younger crowd. They capitalized on the growing trend of fruity and sweet beverages, offering options like Strawberry Hill, Fuzzy Navel, and Apple Blossom.
4. Seagram’s Escapes
Seagram’s Escapes entered the wine cooler market in the late 80s and quickly gained a loyal following. Their colorful and inviting packaging, combined with a diverse range of flavors, made them a hit among consumers. From classics like Wild Berries and Jamaican Me Happy to more exotic options like Calypso Colada, Seagram’s Escapes offered something for everyone.
5. California Coolers
California Coolers, with their catchy tagline “Taste the Sunshine,” also found their place in the wine cooler industry during the 80s. They focused on delivering a taste of the laid-back California lifestyle through their refreshing and tropical flavors. From Tropical Splash to Raspberry Cream, California Coolers embodied the essence of sunny days and vibrant parties.
6. Boone’s Hill
In addition to their popular Boones Farm line, Boones Hill was another name that gained recognition in the 80s. They offered consumers a variety of bold and unique flavors that were perfect for those looking to try something different. From Blue Hawaiian to Peach Passion, Boone’s Hill pushed the boundaries of traditional wine cooler flavors.
7. Seagrams Great Shakes
Seagrams Great Shakes added a fun twist to the wine cooler market by combining the flavors of wine coolers with the creamy goodness of milkshakes. These indulgent and decadent concoctions were a hit with those seeking a unique and flavorful experience. Flavors like Strawberry Daiquiri and Piña Colada exemplified the imaginative offerings of Seagrams Great Shakes.
8. Sun Country Cooler
Sun Country Cooler was another popular brand that embraced the carefree spirit of the 80s. They not only offered a wide range of fruit-infused wine coolers but also introduced the innovative concept of wine coolers in a pouch. This convenient packaging made Sun Country Cooler a go-to choice for outdoor gatherings and adventures under the sun.
9. Hooch
Hooch emerged as a player in the wine cooler market, providing a variety of unique flavors that appealed to the adventurous drinkers of the 80s. With options like Purple Haze, Lemon Brew, and Berry Blast, Hooch brought a sense of excitement and experimentation to the wine cooler scene.
10. Mike’s Hard Lemonade
Although not exclusively a wine cooler brand, Mike’s Hard Lemonade made a significant impact in the 80s beverage landscape. With their flagship flavor, Hard Lemonade, they blended the flavors of tart lemons with a hint of sweetness, creating a refreshing alternative to traditional wine coolers.
These ten brands were at the forefront of the wine cooler craze in the 80s, defining an era of fun, innovation, and deliciously fruity drinks. Whether you were sipping a Zima, enjoying a Bartles & Jaymes, or indulging in a Boone’s Farm, wine coolers were a cultural phenomenon that left an enduring mark on the beverage industry and our nostalgic memories.
