For those who grew up in the 1980s and 1990s, the name Bartles & Jaymes is synonymous with summertime, outdoor gatherings, and refreshing drinks. The iconic wine cooler brand, known for its colorful packaging and catchy advertising jingles, was a staple in many American households. However, as the years went by, the brand’s popularity began to wane, leaving many to wonder: do they still make Bartles & Jaymes?
A Brief History of Bartles & Jaymes
To understand the current state of the brand, it’s essential to delve into its history. Bartles & Jaymes was first introduced in 1985 by the E. & J. Gallo Winery, one of the largest wine producers in the world. The brand was created to capitalize on the growing demand for wine coolers, a type of drink that combines wine with fruit flavors and other ingredients.
The name “Bartles & Jaymes” was inspired by two fictional characters, Frank Bartles and Ed Jaymes, who were portrayed as two old friends who loved to drink wine coolers and enjoy the simple things in life. The brand’s advertising campaigns, which featured the two characters and their humorous misadventures, became incredibly popular and helped to establish Bartles & Jaymes as a household name.
The Rise and Fall of Bartles & Jaymes
During the late 1980s and early 1990s, Bartles & Jaymes experienced rapid growth and became one of the leading wine cooler brands in the United States. The brand’s popularity was fueled by its unique packaging, which featured colorful labels and a distinctive bottle shape. The brand’s advertising campaigns, which often featured catchy jingles and humorous storylines, also helped to attract a large following.
However, as the years went by, the brand’s popularity began to decline. Several factors contributed to this decline, including changes in consumer preferences and the rise of new competitors in the market. In the early 2000s, the brand’s sales began to plummet, and it seemed as though Bartles & Jaymes was destined for obscurity.
Is Bartles & Jaymes Still Available?
Despite the brand’s decline in popularity, Bartles & Jaymes is still available in some parts of the United States. However, the brand’s distribution is limited, and it’s no longer widely available in stores.
In 2011, the E. & J. Gallo Winery announced that it would be discontinuing the Bartles & Jaymes brand due to declining sales. However, in 2019, the company announced that it would be reviving the brand and releasing a new line of Bartles & Jaymes wine coolers.
The new line of Bartles & Jaymes wine coolers features updated packaging and a new range of flavors. The brand’s classic flavors, such as grape and strawberry, are still available, but the new line also includes some new and unique flavors, such as pineapple and mango.
Where to Find Bartles & Jaymes
While Bartles & Jaymes is no longer widely available in stores, it can still be found in some parts of the United States. The brand is primarily available in the Midwest and Northeast regions, where it remains popular among some consumers.
Some retailers that still carry Bartles & Jaymes include:
- Walmart
- Target
- Costco
- Sam’s Club
Consumers can also purchase Bartles & Jaymes online through various retailers, such as Amazon and Drizly.
The Resurgence of Wine Coolers
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in wine coolers, driven in part by the growing demand for low-ABV and refreshing drinks. Several new wine cooler brands have emerged, offering a range of unique flavors and ingredients.
The resurgence of wine coolers has also led to a renewed interest in Bartles & Jaymes, with many consumers seeking out the brand’s classic flavors and nostalgic packaging. While the brand’s popularity is unlikely to reach the same heights as it did in the 1980s and 1990s, it’s clear that Bartles & Jaymes still has a loyal following.
The Future of Bartles & Jaymes
As the wine cooler market continues to evolve, it’s unclear what the future holds for Bartles & Jaymes. However, with the brand’s recent revival and the growing demand for low-ABV drinks, it’s possible that Bartles & Jaymes could experience a resurgence in popularity.
The E. & J. Gallo Winery has announced plans to continue supporting the brand and releasing new flavors and products. The company has also hinted at the possibility of releasing a line of Bartles & Jaymes hard seltzers, which could help to attract a new generation of consumers.
Conclusion
While Bartles & Jaymes may not be as widely available as it once was, the brand still has a loyal following and remains a beloved part of American drinking culture. With the recent resurgence of interest in wine coolers and the brand’s revival, it’s possible that Bartles & Jaymes could experience a new wave of popularity.
Whether you’re a nostalgic consumer looking to relive the past or a new fan of wine coolers, Bartles & Jaymes is definitely worth trying. With its unique flavors, colorful packaging, and rich history, it’s a brand that’s sure to bring a smile to your face and a refreshing drink to your hand.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, while the answer to the question “do they still make Bartles & Jaymes?” is a resounding yes, the brand’s availability and popularity are limited compared to its heyday. However, with the growing demand for low-ABV drinks and the brand’s recent revival, it’s possible that Bartles & Jaymes could experience a resurgence in popularity.
Whether you’re a fan of the brand or just looking to try something new, Bartles & Jaymes is definitely worth checking out. So, grab a bottle, sit back, and enjoy the refreshing taste of a classic American brand.
What happened to Bartles & Jaymes?
Bartles & Jaymes, the iconic wine cooler brand, was indeed a staple in many American households during the 1980s and 1990s. However, its popularity declined significantly in the early 2000s due to increased competition from other beverage brands and shifting consumer preferences. As a result, the brand’s sales plummeted, and it eventually became a relic of the past.
Although the brand is no longer widely available, it still maintains a nostalgic appeal among those who grew up with it. In recent years, there have been occasional sightings of Bartles & Jaymes in some specialty stores or online retailers, but these are often limited to specific regions or special promotions. Despite its relatively low profile, the brand remains a beloved memory for many who fondly remember its catchy advertising jingles and laid-back vibe.
Is Bartles & Jaymes still in production?
While the brand is no longer widely produced or distributed, there have been sporadic reports of limited-edition releases or special batches of Bartles & Jaymes over the years. These productions are often done in collaboration with smaller breweries or wineries looking to capitalize on the brand’s nostalgic appeal. However, these releases are typically short-lived and may not be widely available.
It’s worth noting that the original formula and production methods used by Bartles & Jaymes may not be the same as those used in any modern re-releases. The brand’s original manufacturer, E. & J. Gallo Winery, may have altered the recipe or production process over time, which could affect the taste and quality of the final product. As a result, fans of the original Bartles & Jaymes may notice a difference in taste or quality if they encounter a modern re-release.
Can I still buy Bartles & Jaymes?
While Bartles & Jaymes is no longer widely available in stores, there are still a few ways to get your hands on this beloved wine cooler. Some specialty stores, online retailers, or vintage shops may carry limited quantities of the brand, often at a premium price. You can also try searching online marketplaces or auction sites, where individual sellers may be offering bottles or cases of Bartles & Jaymes.
However, be cautious when purchasing from third-party sellers, as the authenticity and quality of the product cannot be guaranteed. Additionally, be aware that prices may be inflated due to the brand’s nostalgic appeal and limited availability. If you’re looking to try Bartles & Jaymes again, be prepared to pay a premium or settle for a potentially different taste or quality compared to the original.
What made Bartles & Jaymes so popular?
Bartles & Jaymes’ popularity can be attributed to a combination of factors, including its unique blend of wine and fruit flavors, catchy advertising jingles, and memorable marketing campaigns. The brand’s laid-back, carefree vibe resonated with many Americans during the 1980s and 1990s, who were looking for a refreshing, easy-drinking beverage to enjoy during social gatherings or outdoor activities.
The brand’s iconic advertising campaigns, featuring the fictional characters Frank Bartles and Ed Jaymes, also played a significant role in its success. The duo’s folksy, down-to-earth personalities and humorous antics helped to create a sense of familiarity and approachability around the brand, making it a staple in many American households.
Is Bartles & Jaymes still a good choice for wine cooler fans?
While Bartles & Jaymes remains a beloved brand among nostalgic fans, its quality and taste may not be on par with modern wine coolers. The original formula and production methods used by Bartles & Jaymes may not be the same as those used in modern re-releases, which could affect the taste and quality of the final product.
If you’re a fan of wine coolers, you may want to consider exploring other brands or options that offer more contemporary flavors and production methods. Many modern wine coolers offer a wider range of flavors, lower calorie counts, and more sophisticated production techniques, which may appeal to fans of the genre.
Can I make my own Bartles & Jaymes at home?
While it’s impossible to exactly replicate the original Bartles & Jaymes formula, you can try making your own wine cooler at home using a combination of wine, fruit juice, and other ingredients. There are many recipes available online that claim to capture the essence of the original Bartles & Jaymes, but keep in mind that the results may vary depending on the ingredients and methods used.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try experimenting with different combinations of wine, fruit juice, and spices to create your own unique wine cooler recipe. Just be sure to follow proper food safety guidelines and use high-quality ingredients to ensure the best possible taste and quality.
Will Bartles & Jaymes ever make a comeback?
While there have been occasional rumors of a Bartles & Jaymes revival, there is no concrete evidence to suggest that the brand will make a full-scale comeback. However, the brand’s nostalgic appeal and enduring popularity among some fans suggest that there may be opportunities for limited-edition releases or special promotions in the future.
If a Bartles & Jaymes revival were to happen, it would likely involve a significant rebranding and reformulation effort to appeal to modern tastes and preferences. The brand would need to adapt to changing consumer trends and preferences, such as the growing demand for low-calorie, low-sugar, and sustainable beverages.