Will You Accept This Rosé?

In two weeks, one man will begin the most dramatic and romantic reality TV journey of his life—and millions of people will watch the adventures of one man’s dating woes unfold.

That’s right, the New Year will kick off with a new man assuming the role of ABC’s The Bachelor—although fans know the suitor, Nick Viall, well as he appeared on two seasons of The Bachelorette and one season of Bachelor in Paradise.

In 21 seasons, the show has gained a strong following of fans, dubbed Bachelor Nation, who follow the suitor week after week with the hopes that he will find love at the end of his journey. The show’s fan base is so dedicated that many host weekly watch parties with friends and family complete with wine, roses and snacks. The watch parties have become such a central part of viewing for many fans that in recent seasons, host Chris Harrison and the bachelor himself have crashed parties all over the country and filmed it for segments on the show's live finales.

This season, Bachelor Nation will be able to pour a glass or two of vino with wine inspired by the show. A collection of Bachelor-inspired wines was recently launched in anticipation of the 21st season premiere. The Bachelor Wines features three varietals: The Fantasy Suite, One on One and The Final Rosé. Award-winning winemakers Linda Trotta and Aaron Bader from California’s premium Central Coast and Central Valley blend the wines.

The Fantasy Suite is a Cabernet Sauvignon which features a deep ruby red color with aromas of black cherry, blueberry and dark plum; hints of savory, dried herbs hit the soft, round palate, which is complemented by spicy notes. 

One on One is a Chardonnay, also known as sunshine in a bottle due to its lifted aromas of golden delicious apples, pineapple, stone fruits and hints of spice filling the nose; on the palate, ripe apple flavors are co-mingled with notes of lemon, pear and a hint of cream.

The Final Rosé is a Zinfandel and Petite Sirah blend. The soft blush pink color of The Final Rosé is accompanied by strawberries, red cherries and rose petals that provide flavors of strawberry jam and a hint of spice; juicy acidity and exceptional balance carry through to a crisp, dry finish.

"We are thrilled to bring fans of The Bachelor a suite of wines that are the perfect complement to watching the series," said Howard Jackowitz, co-founder of Wines That Rock. "The goal was to capture the excitement and spontaneity of the show, and the incredible passion the viewers have for The Bachelor."

The launch of the wines will be supported through various initiatives starting with a national VIP sweepstakes. Fans will have the chance to fully embrace their Bachelor fantasies with a trip for two to Los Angeles accompanied by tickets to the much-anticipated “Women Tell All” episode.

The Bachelor wines are only available online in select states, however, there is something grocers can glean from the promotion. The Bachelor is not the only television show that is synonymous with watch parties and specific food and drinks.

A former GHQ editor hosts weekly Survivor gathering. When season four of Arrested Development premiered on Netflix a few years ago, I hosted a group binge-watch and served food that was repeatedly referenced on the show. A member of my family has baked zombie-inspired desserts in celebration of The Walking Dead premiere. Stranger Things fans have no doubt flocked to the freezer aisle in search of Eggo waffles to eat while they watch. And on Thursday nights, I’ve seen numerous Scandal fans post photos of their popcorn and wine on social media. 

Some say we’re in the golden age of television. With that in mind and with awards season approaching, retailers can utilize online channels to promote items that align with popular TV shows. A friendly reminder to pick up popcorn and wine for ABC’s TGIT lineup could inspire a shopper to purchase other grocery items they might need. Red carpet-worthy recipe ideas can help ensure that an Academy Awards party goes on without a hitch. The possibilities are endless, and they could be repeated online when a new season premieres—or not.

Any pop culture inspired post can drive impulse purchases and strengthen the relationship a shopper has with the retailer. What retailer wouldn’t want to accept that rose?