Red Wine Cocktails: Indulgent Recipes To Try At Home

Red wine is a versatile beverage that’s perfect for sipping on its own—but have you considered mixing it into cocktails? Red wine cocktails are a delightful way to add a twist to your usual wine routine. From fruity sangrias to effervescent spritzers, the possibilities are endless. Below, we’ll explore why red wine is a fantastic choice for cocktails, how it’s made, and share three red wine cocktail recipes that are ideal for any occasion.

Why Red Wine is Perfect for Cocktails

Red wine’s bold flavors and complexity make it a standout ingredient in cocktails. Whether you enjoy fruity, spicy, or earthy notes, there’s a red wine to match your preference. Its depth pairs beautifully with a wide range of mixers, from fruit juices to sparkling soft drinks, making it a highly adaptable base for cocktails.

Mixing red wine into cocktails can also enhance its flavor profile, adding balance and a touch of creativity to your drink. Whether you're hosting a gathering or unwinding after a long day, red wine cocktails offer an easy way to elevate your experience.

How Red Wine is Made

Before diving into the recipes, let’s take a quick look at how red wine is crafted. The process starts with carefully selected red grapes, which are harvested at their peak ripeness. The grapes are then crushed, and the skins are left in contact with the juice during fermentation. This step is what gives red wine its rich color and tannins.

Fermentation occurs as yeast converts the sugars in the grapes into alcohol. Afterward, the wine may be aged in oak barrels or stainless steel tanks to develop its flavors. The final product is a harmonious balance of fruit, acidity, tannins, and alcohol, ready to be enjoyed on its own—or in creative cocktails like the ones below.

Sangria Fruit Punch

Easy

Alcohol

No Equipment

Sangria is the quintessential red wine cocktail, and for good reason. This Spanish-inspired drink is a vibrant mix of wine, fruit, and juice. This sangria is perfect for gatherings, brunches, or any time you want to impress your guests with a touch of sophistication.

INGREDIENTS

1 bottle of red wine (preferably a fruity variety like Merlot or Tempranillo)

1 cup of Frobishers Orange Juice

1/4 cup brandy

1/4 cup triple sec

2 tablespoons sugar (optional)

1 orange (sliced)

1 lemon (sliced)

1 apple (diced)

Sparkling water (optional - for fizz)

METHOD

1.

In a large pitcher, combine the red wine, orange juice, brandy, and triple sec

2.

Stir well

3.

Add the sugar if you prefer a sweeter sangria

4.

Mix until dissolved

5.

Toss in the orange, lemon, and apple slices

6.

Chill for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld

7.

Serve over ice, topped with sparkling water if desired

FEATURED PRODUCTS

Orange

Red Wine Spritzer

Easy

Alcohol

No Equipment

For a light and bubbly take on a red wine cocktail, try this spritzer. The combination of red wine and lemonade creates a refreshing drink that’s ideal for casual get-togethers.

INGREDIENTS

1/2 cup red wine

1/2 cup Frobishers Sicilian Lemonade

Ice cubes

Sparkling water or soda water

Lemon slices - for garnish

METHOD

1.

Fill a glass halfway with ice cubes

2.

Pour in the red wine and lemonade

3.

Top with sparkling water or soda water for fizz

4.

Stir gently and garnish with a lemon slice

FEATURED PRODUCTS

Sicilian Lemonade

Red Wine and Berry Blast

Easy

Alcohol

No Equipment

Red wine pairs beautifully with berries, making this cocktail a must-try for fruit lovers. This recipe combines red wine with cranberry juice for a rich and tangy drink.

INGREDIENTS

1/2 cup red wine

1/2 cup Frobishers Cranberry Juice

1 tablespoon simple syrup (optional - for added sweetness)

Ice cubes

Fresh berries for garnish (such as raspberries or blackberries)

METHOD

1.

Fill a glass with ice cubes

2.

Pour in the red wine and cranberry juice

3.

Add simple syrup if you prefer a sweeter drink

4.

Stir well

5.

Garnish with fresh berries for an extra pop of flavour and colour

FEATURED PRODUCTS

Cranberry

Red wine cocktails are a fantastic way to experiment with your favourite wine. They’re simple to make, highly customisable, and ideal for showcasing fresh, seasonal ingredients. Whether you prefer the bold flavours of sangria, the light effervescence of a spritzer, or the fruity richness of a berry blend, there’s a red wine cocktail for every palate.

Next time you’re hosting or looking for a creative drink to enjoy at home, try one of these recipes. With just a few ingredients and a little creativity, you’ll be sipping in style.

And remember, you can build a box of your favourite Frobishers soft drinks, including our classic Orange Juice, Sicilian Lemonade and Cranberry Juice, here.

Cheers to the art of mixing red wine cocktails!

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Pick your favourite flavours

BUILD YOUR own BOX

You’d like to choose your own selection? No problem, just mix and match 12 or 24 bottles from any of our ranges. Choose 24 and receive free delivery.