The 1970s were a time of cultural revolution, with new fashion trends, music, and films shaping the era. In the midst of this pivotal decade, iconic coffee brands emerged, captivating consumers with their unique blends and captivating packaging. These coffee brands not only provided a much-needed caffeine fix but also became symbols of the ’70s lifestyle. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore the coffee brands that dominated the 1970s, reminiscing about their iconic flavors, ad campaigns, and lasting impact. So, grab a cup of your favorite brew and join us on this journey through the coffee brands of the ’70s.
Maxwell House: The Classic Elixir
When it comes to the iconic coffee brands of the ’70s, Maxwell House undoubtedly takes the crown. With their slogan “Good to the Last Drop,” Maxwell House became synonymous with a satisfying cup of joe. The brand’s aromatic and flavorful blends were a staple in households across the United States. The smooth, medium-bodied taste of Maxwell House offered a comforting warmth on chilly mornings and a much-needed energy boost throughout the day. Whether it was their classic Original Roast, the bold and robust Master Blend, or the indulgent Cafe Francais, Maxwell House had a coffee for every discerning palate.
Aside from its unforgettable taste, Maxwell House also made waves with its clever marketing campaigns. Who can forget the catchy jingle, “Perk up, perk up, perk up your cup!” that played on television screens nationwide? This jingle became an instant earworm and ingrained the brand in the minds of consumers. Maxwell House also capitalized on its connections to pop culture by sponsoring popular television shows such as “Good Times” and “The Mary Tyler Moore Show.” These strategic partnerships further solidified Maxwell House’s position as a household name and a coffee brand that defined the ’70s.
The Birth of Folgers: A Coffee Revolution
Another coffee brand that made waves during the ’70s was Folgers. Introduced in 1850, Folgers experienced a renaissance in the ’70s and became a beloved household name. Known for its rich, smooth taste and tantalizing aroma, Folgers became a staple in American homes. Whether it was the iconic Classic Roast, the bold, full-bodied Black Silk, or the mild and mellow breakfast blend, Folgers had a coffee that catered to every coffee connoisseur’s preference.
The success of Folgers in the ’70s can be attributed to its groundbreaking marketing campaigns. The memorable slogan “The best part of waking up is Folgers in your cup” became ingrained in the collective memory of coffee enthusiasts. The jingle, accompanied by a catchy tune, transformed the act of brewing coffee into a morning ritual that promised a great start to the day. Folgers commercials featured families gathered around the breakfast table, savoring the first sip of their freshly brewed Folgers coffee. These heartwarming scenes evoked a sense of comfort, togetherness, and the simple pleasures of life—all while relishing the aromatic goodness of Folgers.
Hills Bros: Coffee with a Legacy
As we delve deeper into the coffee brands that dominated the ’70s, one cannot ignore the enduring legacy of Hills Bros. Established in 1878, Hills Bros quickly gained popularity for its distinctive vacuum-packed coffee cans. The vacuum sealing method ensured the freshness and quality of the coffee, making it a favorite among discerning coffee lovers. Hills Bros offered a range of blends, from the smooth and understated Breakfast Blend to the robust and full-bodied House Blend, satisfying the diverse preferences of coffee enthusiasts.
Aside from its exceptional blends, Hills Bros distinguished itself with its innovative marketing strategies. The brand’s iconic advertisements featured Juan Valdez, a fictional Colombian coffee grower, and his trusty mule, Conchita. These captivating commercials showcased the journey of coffee from the lush Colombian mountains to the cups of coffee lovers worldwide, emphasizing the dedication, craftsmanship, and quality associated with Hills Bros. This unique approach not only highlighted the brand’s authenticity but also fostered a deeper connection with consumers who appreciated the story behind their cup of coffee.
Sanka: The Iconic Decaffeinated Option
While many coffee brands were known for their bold and invigorating flavors, Sanka carved a niche for itself by offering decaffeinated coffee options that didn’t compromise on taste. Introduced in the ’70s, Sanka became a go-to choice for those looking to savor the rich flavors of coffee without the jolt of caffeine. With its distinctive orange packaging and recognizable logo, Sanka quickly became synonymous with decaf.
What set Sanka apart was its commitment to providing top-quality decaffeinated coffee. Unlike many other brands that used chemical processes to remove caffeine, Sanka pioneered a natural decaffeination process that relied on superheated steam. This gentle method preserved the aroma and flavors of the coffee beans while ensuring a smooth and satisfying cup of decaf coffee. Sanka’s dedication to providing a delicious decaffeinated option made it a beloved choice for those seeking a caffeine-free alternative without compromise.
Taster’s Choice: A Blend for Discerning Palates
While many coffee brands of the ’70s focused on convenience and instant satisfaction, Taster’s Choice aimed to cater to the discerning palates of coffee enthusiasts. Introduced in 1966, Taster’s Choice offered a range of premium freeze-dried instant coffees that provided an exquisite coffee experience at the convenience of a jar. The brand’s commitment to quality made it a favorite among those who appreciated the rich flavors and textures of freshly brewed coffee.
Taster’s Choice coffee beans were carefully selected from the finest coffee-growing regions and expertly roasted to perfection. The freeze-drying process preserved the natural flavors, aromas, and oils in the coffee, resulting in a cup that rivaled freshly brewed coffee in taste and quality. Coffee enthusiasts could enjoy a delightful cup of Taster’s Choice without the need for brewing equipment or waiting for a pot to brew. The convenience of Taster’s Choice, coupled with its exceptional taste and quality, made it a standout brand in the ’70s.
Yuban: A Taste of Tradition
When it comes to coffee brands that celebrated tradition, Yuban stood out from the crowd. Founded in 1859, Yuban had a long-standing history that resonated with coffee lovers who appreciated the timeless art of brewing coffee. Yuban’s blends were carefully crafted using a combination of beans sourced from Central and South America, resulting in a distinctively rich and smooth taste.
What made Yuban unique was its commitment to the slow-roasting process. The brand believed that good things come to those who wait, and this was reflected in the coffee’s exceptional flavor. Yuban meticulously roasted its coffee beans at a lower temperature for a longer duration, allowing the flavors to mature and develop. This slow-roasting technique resulted in a deep, complex, and well-rounded cup of coffee that appealed to those who appreciated the nuances and artistry of coffee brewing.
The Rise of Chock Full o’ Nuts: From Nuts to Beans
Chock Full o’ Nuts, known for its nut-filled breads and pastries, expanded its repertoire in the ’70s and ventured into the world of coffee. The brand quickly gained recognition for its robust and flavorful coffee blends, capturing the hearts and taste buds of coffee enthusiasts. Chock Full o’ Nuts offered a range of blends, from the smooth, medium-bodied New York Roast to the bold and full-bodied Original blend, satisfying a variety of preferences.
Chock Full o’ Nuts also made waves with its distinctive packaging. The iconic yellow cans, adorned with the brand’s logo and the image of a nutcracker, stood out on store shelves and became immediately recognizable. This eye-catching design added to the brand’s appeal, further enticing consumers to try Chock Full o’ Nuts coffee.
Community Coffee: A Southern Delight
As we explore the coffee brands that dominated the ’70s, it would be remiss not to mention Community Coffee. Founded in 1919, Community Coffee quickly became a beloved brand, particularly in the South. With its roots in Louisiana, Community Coffee celebrated the rich coffee traditions and flavors of the region.
Community Coffee offered a variety of blends that showcased the diverse flavors of the South. Whether it was the smooth and well-balanced Signature Blend or the bold and dark French Roast, Community Coffee catered to the diverse palates of coffee enthusiasts. The brand’s commitment to quality, combined with its Southern hospitality, resonated with consumers and positioned Community Coffee as a beloved choice in the ’70s.
Conclusion
The coffee brands that dominated the ’70s left an indelible mark on the coffee industry and popular culture. Maxwell House, Folgers, Hills Bros, Sanka, Taster’s Choice, Yuban, Chock Full o’ Nuts, and Community Coffee became household names, offering a diverse array of coffee options that catered to every taste and preference.
These brands not only provided coffee enthusiasts with high-quality and flavorful blends but also became symbols of the ’70s lifestyle. Their marketing campaigns, memorable slogans, and captivating packaging added to the allure of these coffee brands, making them an integral part of the cultural fabric of the decade.
As we reminisce about the coffee brands that defined the ’70s, we can’t help but appreciate the impact they had on the coffee industry as a whole. Their dedication to quality, innovation, and captivating storytelling laid the foundation for the coffee brands we have today. So, the next time you enjoy a cup of your favorite brew, raise a toast to the coffee brands of the ’70s that continue to shape the way we experience our daily caffeine fix.