Zima, the clear citrus-flavoured malt beverage of the 1990s, forms the base of the Zima Blaster, paired with Chambord raspberry liqueur over ice in a hurricane glass. The Chambord is poured first, then topped with Zima, its rich dark raspberry and blackcurrant sweetness transforming the light, crisp malt into a fruitier and more complex drink with a vivid colour gradient. At roughly 5.5% ABV it is light and sweet, a nostalgic period piece built on a now-discontinued beverage. The drink's appeal lies as much in its layered colour and 1990s association as in its straightforward flavour.
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Zima Blaster
Ingredients
- Zima 12 oz
- Chambord Raspberry Liqueur 3 oz
Instructions
Fill glass with ice. Pour in Chambord, then fill with Zima. Mix and enjoy.
The Zima Blaster is a simple cocktail combining Zima — the clear, citrus-flavored malt beverage popular in the 1990s — with Chambord raspberry liqueur, served over ice in a hurricane glass. The Chambord's rich, dark raspberry and blackcurrant sweetness transforms the light, crisp Zima into a fruitier, more complex drink with a vivid color gradient. It is a nostalgic 1990s cocktail.
History & Origins
The Zima Blaster emerged in the early-to-mid 1990s alongside Zima's commercial launch by Coors Brewing Company in 1993. Zima was marketed as an 'alternative to beer,' appealing to consumers who found beer too bitter — adding Chambord was a common bar customization that increased sweetness and complexity. The drink's origin is disputed and likely evolved simultaneously across multiple American bars as bartenders experimented with the new product.
Tasting Notes
Aroma: Light citrus and malt from the Zima with Chambord's intense raspberry and blackcurrant sweetness. Palate: Sweet and fruity, with Chambord's dark berry richness complementing Zima's light, citrusy malt character; the combination is more interesting than either component alone. Finish: Sweet and berry-forward with lingering raspberry and a light malt note from the Zima.
Pro Tip
Pour the Chambord over ice before adding the Zima to create an attractive color gradient that slowly integrates as the drink is consumed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are in a Zima Blaster?
The Zima Blaster is made with Zima — the clear, citrus-flavored malt beverage popularized in the 1990s — and Chambord raspberry liqueur, served over ice in a hurricane glass. Chambord's deep raspberry and blackcurrant sweetness contrasts with and transforms Zima's light, crisp citrus character. No additional ingredients are specified in the standard recipe.
What was Zima and why is it associated with 1990s cocktail culture?
Zima was a clear, carbonated malt beverage introduced by Coors Brewing Company in 1993, marketed as an alternative to beer with a slightly sweet, citrus-forward flavor and low ABV of approximately 5.4%. It was a product of the 'clear drinks' trend of the early 1990s and was often mixed with flavored liqueurs to add color and sweetness. Zima was discontinued in the United States in 2008, cementing its status as a nostalgic 1990s artifact.
What is the ABV of a Zima Blaster?
A Zima Blaster made with Zima (approximately 5.4% ABV) and a modest measure of Chambord (approximately 16.5% ABV) over ice produces a finished drink in the range of 6–9% ABV depending on the Chambord proportion. The Zima base keeps the overall ABV low and sessionable. The drink is primarily a nostalgic, sweet casual cocktail rather than a serious mixed drink.
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