The genius idea of mixing wine and other ingredients to create a cocktail is probably as old as the beloved drink itself. It is a fact that ordering wine cocktails at the bar was once ridiculed and had a terrible reputation. For years, mixed drinks were stereotyped to lack sophistication, style, and class. However, at the present it’s prominence changed.
Fortunately, today’s wine climate has become diverse. The classic mixed wine cocktail is making its comeback in a world that is always looking for new ways to offer different food and beverages. Mixing wine with other ingredients offers wine lovers a new way of tasting the flavors and aromas of their favorite wines.
Must-Try Wine Cocktail Recipes
1. Blueberry-Apple Cordials
When you purchase a lot of berries at once, it’s a good idea to preserve them in a drinkable form.
Combine blueberries, lemon zest, and brandy in a jar. Seal the jar tightly, then keep it in a dark, cool place. Shake it daily until it turns a deep purple, which usually happens within a month.
Use a cheesecloth to strain the mixture into a large bowl. To prevent the mixture from becoming cloudy, do not press on the solids. To add a sweet taste, add simple syrup. Chill the cordial before serving in small glasses. You can make the strained cordial mixture up to 6 months in advance. Keep them covered and chilled.
To make a sparkling wine spritzer, just add 1 ounce of cordial to a flute.
2. Lemon Verbena and Melon with Prosecco
You can also try lemon verbena and melon with Prosecco if you are looking for something sweet and easy to make.
Combine sugar, lemon verbena, and water in a small saucepan. Allow it to simmer on medium heat. Stir constantly to dissolve the sugar granules. Let the syrup cool down before straining it into a pitcher.
Remove the cantaloupe’s seeds and blend the flesh in a blender until smooth. Then, mix the syrup with the flesh. Let it cool for at one to two hours to allow the foam to settle before serving.
To finish off leftovers, add Prosecco to the mix. You can make this melon mixture a day in advance and keep it chilled.
3. Mango Passion
A white wine cocktail inspired by Thailand’s beaches features fresh mangoes as the star. The combination of sparkling white wine and vodka creates a unique base, while the tropical fruits play off the rich flavor of maple syrup.
Cut the mangoes slightly off the center to avoid its seed. Take out the flesh and place it in a blender. Add vodka, lime juice, and salt to the blender and blend until you get a smooth puree. Then, do a taste test. If necessary, you can add more syrup.
Pour the concoction into a glass filled with ice, and finish it off with champagne or white wine. You may also use sparkling water if you prefer your drink with less alcohol. Finally, garnish the glasses with fresh lime slices and fresh fruits such as cherries.
4. Sparkling Margarita
To make your margarita base, combine Triple Sec, Tequila, and lime juice. Place a lime wedge on the rim of your glasses and dip the glasses in coarse salt. Then, put 1/3 cup of margarita mix into a champagne flute and top it with champagne. If you prefer a different glass, use a 1/3 cup margarita mix to 1/2 cup champagne. To sweeten the glass, add a teaspoon of sweetener if desired
5. Ginger-Lime Spritz
In a cocktail shaker, mix ginger and add lime juice. Strain into ice-filled glasses then add dry Prosecco or another sparkling white wine for maximum refreshment. Top it off with club soda. Mix well and garnish with mint.
6. Francophile
Do you enjoy making red wine cocktails in the fall? Calvados might be the perfect addition to your wine-and-cinnamon cocktail recipe. The French apple brandy will add richness to your wine, lemon juice, and cinnamon syrup. It is easy to make.
First, prepare the cinnamon syrup. Combine the cinnamon sticks, sugar, water, and salt in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil on high heat. After that, reduce the flame to low and simmer for a few more minutes. Cover the saucepan and allow it to cool for 6 hours. Strain the mixture and store it in the fridge.
In a small saucepan, combine calvados and Rioja wine with cinnamon syrup and water. Place on medium heat until the mixture is hot. Then, put it in a large, thick-walled mug. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and an apple slice.
Key Takeaway
Whatever occasion you’re celebrating or you’re just in the mood to unwind and relax, these delectable cocktail recipes mentioned above can be easy to concoct and serve in a matter of minutes. You just need to visit your friendly Avon liquor store for the best choices of wines and spirits you’ll need to make your tasty and exciting cocktails even at home.