A wine cooler is a beverage made from wine and a carbonated component, often enhanced with fruit flavors. This lightly alcoholic drink is popular for its refreshing and fruity taste.

In the context of cocktails, wine coolers offer a convenient way to add a fizzy, fruity element to various drinks. They are commonly used to reduce the alcohol content of cocktails while still contributing to the overall flavor profile.

Wine coolers can be used in place of champagne or sparkling wine in drinks like spritzers or sangrias to provide a lighter, more refreshing taste. They are also excellent for creating large-batch cocktails for gatherings, as they help extend other ingredients and add a pleasant effervescence.