Red wine enthusiasts rejoice! The classic beverage can be elevated to new heights when incorporated into cocktails. While hard liquor is often the star of the show, it’s not always necessary for a great cocktail. In fact, adding red wine can add a rich and velvety texture that complements a variety of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a party or unwinding after a long day, these 13 red wine cocktails are sure to impress. The best part?
They’re perfect for enjoying with a range of meals, from hearty dinners to intimate gatherings. Red wine’s subtle nuances can even elevate classic cocktails like the Harvest Moon Manhattan and New York Sour. When used as a main ingredient or float, it adds a depth and complexity that’s hard to replicate with other spirits. The Red Wine Mule Cocktail and Vodka, Red Wine, & Spiced Pear Liqueur Cocktail are just two examples of how red wine can be used to create truly unique and delicious drinks.
Next time you’re at the store, consider picking up a bottle (or two) and experimenting with these innovative recipes.
Red Wine Spritzer
A simple yet effective twist on traditional red wine can be achieved by introducing just one additional ingredient. This game-changing addition is none other than Sprite, which not only adds a refreshing effervescence but also provides a touch of sweetness without overpowering the palate. The key to successfully incorporating this ingredient into your red wine is maintaining a harmonious balance, with a 3:1 ratio of red wine to Sprite providing the perfect blend for any gathering.
Red Wine Slushie
Transforming your favorite red into a refreshing slushie is the perfect way to enjoy it on a sweltering summer day. The best part? You can use an affordable bottle of wine, making this recipe ideal for experimenting with cocktails. Simply combine simple syrup, Grand Marnier, and red wine with fresh fruits to achieve a silky consistency. For added refinement, you can strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any pesky seeds, ensuring a smooth drinking experience.
Amaretto Bourbon Cocktail With Red Wine Float
When you combine the rich, velvety texture of almond-flavored liquor with the subtle complexity of red wine, something truly special happens. The bourbon’s smooth, yet bold flavors are perfectly balanced by the sweetness of simple syrup and amaretto, creating a harmonious blend that will tantalize your taste buds. And then, just when you think it can’t get any better, the gentle pour of red wine adds an unexpected twist, elevating this cocktail to new heights.
Harvest Moon Manhattan
Indulge in the rich flavors of autumn with this reimagined Manhattan cocktail, where the classic recipe meets the boldness of red wine. By substituting traditional sweet vermouth for a rich, full-bodied red wine of your choice, you’ll create a unique and tantalizing drink that’s perfect for crisp fall evenings.
Strawberry Red Wine Cocktail
When it comes to crafting exceptional cocktails, simplicity is often key. Case in point: this delectable red wine cocktail. By combining one part of rich red wine with two parts of effervescent sparkling water and garnishing with a few slices of fresh strawberries, you’ve got yourself a refreshing drink that’s just as easy to make as it is to enjoy. The best part? It’s a perfect blend of flavors that will leave you feeling satisfied without overwhelming your palate.
Ginger+Red Wine Fizz
For a unique twist on traditional red wines, consider pairing pinot noir with other ingredients. A splash of orange liqueur and some ginger beer can create a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail that’s sure to become a favorite. If you’re looking to incorporate more fall flavors into your drink, try adding a sprig of rosemary as a garnish. This herb adds a piney note that complements the fruitiness of the pinot noir and the spiciness of the ginger beer.
Red Wine Margarita
There’s no denying the allure of two beloved adult beverages combined into one delectable cocktail. The fusion of rich red wine and tangy margaritas yields an impressive concoction that’s sure to delight even the most discerning palates. What makes this twist on the classic margarita so brilliant is its understated ease of preparation.
By combining red wine, tequila, and triple sec, you’ll create a party favorite that will have your guests clamoring for more – without ever having to reveal the simplicity behind it.
New York Sour
Elevate your whiskey sour game by introducing the New York Sour cocktail. This twist on the classic recipe allows you to retain all the tangy, sweet, and tart flavors you know and love while adding an extra layer of depth. The key element is floating a layer of red wine on top, which adds fruitiness and visual appeal. Achieving this layered effect is surprisingly easy, and we’ll provide you with a helpful tip to ensure a seamless separation of the two liquids in your cocktail.
Kalimotxo
From the sun-kissed vineyards of northern Spain comes a unique and tantalizing red wine cocktail that has gained popularity across Europe and South America. For those who are new to this refreshing concoction, the combination of red wine and Coca-Cola might raise an eyebrow – but trust us, the harmony of these two ingredients is truly delightful. This sweet spritzer is a world away from other cocktails you may have tried, with its bold flavors and crisp finish.
Feel free to experiment with the proportions of red wine to Coke, but as a starting point, a 1:1 ratio provides an excellent balance of sweetness and complexity.
Vodka, Red Wine, & Spiced Pear Liqueur Cocktail
This festive cocktail is a perfect blend of seasonal flavors, featuring notes of spiced pear, nutmeg, and maple syrup. As you combine all the ingredients, you’ll be rewarded with a harmonious balance of sweetness and spice. To elevate this drink to new heights, consider pairing it with a dry red wine for a rich and complex flavor profile.
Gluhwein (Hot Spiced Red Wine)
As the cold winter months unfold, there’s nothing quite like gathering with loved ones around a warm and inviting drink. A particular concoction stands out as a perfect blend of comfort and cheer. This spiced wine-based cocktail is a staple at German Christmas markets, where its name may be unfamiliar but its warmth and flavor are unmistakable. To give it an extra boost, a splash of brandy adds depth and a sense of coziness to the glass.
Red Wine Mule Cocktail
What makes this delightful drink truly special is its effortless preparation, thanks to a pre-packaged mule mix that’s as convenient as it is flavorful. To bring out its best qualities, simply add a shot of the mix to a highball glass filled with ice, and then carefully pour red wine over the top, allowing the two liquids to mingle and create an Instagram-worthy layered effect.
If presentation matters to you, take your time when pouring the red wine to achieve the perfect separation between the two layers. Once you’ve captured all the desired photo ops, give the drink a good stir to harmonize its flavors and ensure every sip is as enjoyable as the first.
The Bishop
As you sip on this tantalizing cocktail, the symphony of fruity flavors from the red wine, orange juice, and lemon juice harmonizes with the rich Cuban rum. The addition of simple syrup provides a touch of sweetness, making each sip a delightful experience. To complete the presentation, simply strain and pour your masterpiece into a chilled glass, ready to be savored and enjoyed.
The bottom line
For those who haven’t yet discovered the world of red wine cocktails, it’s time to get excited! These innovative drinks offer a refreshing twist on traditional cocktail-making while still allowing you to savor your favorite bottle of red wine. The best part? They’re remarkably easy to create and even more enjoyable to indulge in. If you’re a fan of a good glass of red wine, you’ll be thrilled to know that there are 13 deliciously simple options waiting to be tried!
