Colt 45 is an American malt liquor brand originally introduced by National Brewing Company in 1963. It is now owned by Pabst Brewing Company and has an alcohol content typically associated with malt liquors.
History
Colt 45 was first introduced by National Brewing Company in 1963. The brand was named after football player Jerry Hill of the 1963 Baltimore Colts, who wore number 45, though he never endorsed the product or received royalties. The label features a kicking horse and horseshoe symbolizing its 'extra kick' compared to competing brands.
Types and styles
Over the years, Colt 45 has produced several variations including Cool Colt (a mint-flavored version), Colt 45 Silver (a clear, lower alcohol version), and Colt 45 Double Malt (with 8.5% ABV in some regions). In 2011, Pabst introduced Blast by Colt 45, a fruit-flavored malt beverage with 12% ABV promoted by Snoop Dogg.
Advertising
From the 1960s through the 1970s, Colt 45 featured Billy Van in commercials showing him patiently waiting at a table while unusual events unfolded around him. By 1978, the campaign shifted to 'That Dynamite Taste' and later featured actor Billy Dee Williams with the slogan 'It works every time.'