Wine coolers are alcoholic drinks traditionally made with carbonated water, juices, sugar and alcohol. They generally have a lower alcohol level than traditional wines, and as a result have a lighter, sweeter taste.

The original recipe for wine coolers called for the use of Chardonnay wine in the drink. But by the early 90's, wine taxes made it too expensive to produce. The main ingredient of wine in most coolers have now been replaced with malt alcohol.

Wine coolers started as a homemade beverage, enjoyed by the experimental. In 1981, California Cooler created a commercial version of the drink for distribution. It wasn't until companies such as Bartles and Jaymes and Seagram's started mass producing the drink in the 80's that it became a popular alternative to beer and hard alcohol in stores. Sales of the drink were popular in the 80's, with celebrities such as Bruce Willis promoting the drinks, but sales dipped significantly in the 90's when the novelty of the drink wore off.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1daIIDQsXI

Wine coolers can be made at home by combining wine and other beverages, or can be purchased pre-made in bottles wherever wine or liquor is sold.

To make homemade wine coolers, combine seltzer, soda water or club soda (basically any type of carbonated water) with a juice or combination of juices (try orange, pineapple, cranberry, cherry, grape or white grape) with a white wine such as chardonnay or pinot grigio. Add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice for extra flavor. To sweeten it, add some sugar or other sweetener. For a lighter wine cooler, use a calorie free sweetener, but keep in mind that there is still sugar in the juice and calories from the wine. Serve wine coolers well chilled.

• Amazon.com: California Wine Drinks: Cocktails, Coolers, Punches & Hot Drinks

• Leeners: Island Mist Fruit Wine Cooler Kits