Ah, the 1980s—a time of big hair, bad fashion choices and some seriously delicious cocktails. From the classic Long Island Iced Tea to sweet white Zinfandel, these drinks were all over the bars and clubs of the decade and continue to be popular today. Let's take a look at some of the most beloved cocktails from the 1980s.
The Long Island Iced Tea is one of the most iconic drinks from this era. This potent concoction was made with vodka, tequila, rum, gin and Cointreau served over ice for a super sugary buzz. This drink was especially popular in New York dring this time and was often seen at retro shindigs.
Another classic favorite from this era is the Blue Lagoon, which featured Blue Curacao as its main ingredient. This colorful drink was usually made with vodka, blue curacao, lemon juice and sugar syrup for a sweet but tangy taste.
White Zinfandel was also extremely popular during this time period. This pink colored wine made by California winery Sutter Home was a huge hit among 80s drinkers due to its sweet flavor profile that went well with any occasion.
The Slippery Nipple is another 80s classic that still appeas on bar menus today. This mix of Bailey's Irish Cream and sambuca is an easily recognizable drink that continues to be enjoyed by many people today.
Bartles & Jaymes Wine Coolers were another popular choice for those looking for something a bit sweeter than other alcoholic beverages available during this time period. These fruity drinks mixed wine with fruit juices for a light yet flavorful beverage that cold be enjoyed in any setting.
The B-52 shot is another 1980s favorite that has stood the test of time thanks to its unique combination of flavors made from coffee liqueur, Irish cream and Grand Marnier or triple sec layered on top of each other in a shot glass for an unforgettable experience with eery sip!
Finally, there's the Alabama Slammer whch combines Southern Comfort whiskey with orange juice and sloe gin for an easy-drinking cocktail that's perfect for any party atmosphere!
All in all, these classics from the 1980s remain popular choices even today due to their unique flavor profiles and ability to bring out nostalgia in all thoe who enjoy them! So why not mix up one of these drinks next time you're feeling like taking a trip down memory lane? You won't regret it!
Popular Alcoholic Drinks of the 1980s
One of the most popular alcoholic drinks of the 1980s was the Long Island Iced Tea. This iconic cocktail originated in New York and quickly gained popularity, becoming a staple at many parties and gatherings. The classic recipe involves combining vodka, tequila, rum, gin, and Cointreau with cola and freshly-squeezed lemon juice. The result is an intensely sweet yet refreshing drink that is traditionally served over ice. The Long Island Iced Tea has remained popular ever since its introduction in the 1980s, and continues to be a favorite among many drinkers today.
Popular Beverages Consumed by Girls in the 1980s
In the 1980s, many girls enjoyed a variety of different drinks depending on their taste preferences. Popular drinks included Blue Lagoon (made with Blue Curacao, vodka, lemonade and 7-Up), Long Island Iced Tea (made with vodka, gin, tequila, triple sec and cola), White Zinfandel (a light and sweet rosé wine), Slippery Nipple (made with Baileys Irish Cream and Sambuca), Bartles & Jaymes Wine Coolers (fruit-flavored malt beverages made with wine or beer) and The B-52 (made with Kahlua, Baileys Irish Cream and Grand Marnier). Other popular options were Alabama Slammers (made with amaretto, sloe gin, orange juice and Southern Comfort) and Margaritas. Girls also enjoyed various cocktails made from vodka or gin mixed with fruit juices.
Popular Wines of the 1980s
In the 1980s, white Zinfandel was one of the most popular wines enjoyed by people. This sweet and fruity wine with a rosy pink hue was produced by Sutter Home, a California winery that has been around since the late 1940s. White Zinfandel is made from the Zinfandel grape, whch is red in color but produces a crisp and light-bodied rosé when the juice is removed before fermentation. Sutter Home's white Zinfandel was one of the first commercially produced wines of its kind and quickly became a hit among wine-drinkers. It was especially popular with younger drinkers due to its low alcohol content and sweet flavor. Other popular wines from this era included Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, and Pinot Noir.
Popular Kids Drinks of the 1980s
In the 1980s, kids drinks were all about convenience and creativity. One of the most popular beverages was Kool-Aid, whch came in many different flavors and could be prepared with just a few ingredients. Tang, another powdered drink mix, was also a hit at school lunch tables. Meanwhile, Hi-C was a fruity juice box that came in a variety of flavors like orange and grape.
When it comes to carbonated drinks, Coke and Pepsi were the most popular choices amng kids – both brands released mini cans that year that could fit perfectly into lunchboxes. For those looking for something more exciting to sip on during recess or after school, Surge and Mountain Dew provided an extra dose of caffeine for an energy boost.
On the subject of cool pouches, Capri Sun was introduced a year later in 1981 and became one of the decade's quintessential beverages. Having one of these in your lunchbox officially made you a cool kid — if you could get the straw in.
The Drinking Age in 1980
In 1980, the drinking age varied from state to state. Prior to the passage of the National Minimum Drinking Age Act of 1984, which established 21 as the national minimum drinking age, many states had different ages for purchasing or consuming alcohol. In Illinois, the drinking age was 18 with written consent of a parent; while in Indiana and Iowa it was 21. Kansas had a slightly higher drinking age of 21 in 1985 prior to the passage of the National Minimum Drinking Age Act.
Conclusion
The 1980s saw the emergence of a variety of classic cocktails that are still popular today. From the sugary Long Island Iced Tea to the fruity White Zinfandel, these drinks were not only visually appealing but also provided a delicious blend of sweet and sour flavors. Other popular 1980s cocktails included The Slippery Nipple, Bartles & Jaymes Wine Coolers, The B-52, and the Alabama Slammer which all had unique tastes that people had never experienced before. Along with these drinks, tere were also some timeless classics like the Old Fashioned, Martini, Daiquiri, Sidecar, Whiskey Highball and Flip which made their mark during this decade. All in all, it was an exciting time for cocktail culture and many of these drinks remain favorites today.
