Summertime get-togethers call for a repertoire of cool, sweet and refreshing wine cocktails. Perfect for celebrations, pool parties or picnics, these libations are a feast for the eyes and are easy to mix together with only a few ingredients. From sparkling cocktails with a fruity twist to a classic sangria, these wine cocktail ideas will keep you sipping pretty all summer long.
Watermelon Slushie
Blend 2 cups of seedless watermelon chunks, 1 tablespoon of agave nectar, honey or your favorite sweetener until smooth. Pour through a cheesecloth to strain (optional).
Pour 1/4 of the watermelon mixture into the bottom of four glasses and top with equal parts white wine and club soda (1/2 cup each). Serve with smaller watermelon chunks and a sprig of mint, for garnish.
Wine recommendation:
Homage Cellars 2014 Riesling
Homage Cellars Lot Number 17
Red Hot Summer Sangria
To make simple syrup, add 1/4 cup of sugar and 1/4 cup of water to a small saucepan. Over medium high heat, bring the mixture to a boil. Cook until sugar is fully dissolved. Allow to cool.
Add 1 bottle of red wine, 1/2 cup of brandy, 1 cup of pomegranate juice, 1 apple (sliced), 1 orange (sliced) and 1 cup of pomegranate seeds to a large pitcher. Add in cooled simple syrup to taste and stir. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or for best results, overnight.
Wine recommendation:
Gemme Cellars 2014 Malbec
Milano Cellars 2015 Dolcetto
Grapefruit Crush
Juice 1 ruby red grapefruit and mix with 1 tablespoon of Campari or 1 tablespoon of lime juice. Pour an even amount into four glasses and top with sparkling wine. Serve with half-slices of grapefruit or mint for garnish.
Wine recommendation:
Petit Cadeau Semi-Seco Sparkling Wine
Grand Cadeau Rosé Sparkling Wine
Orange Splash
Slice 1 orange thinly. Mix together with 4 cups of white wine, 1/4 cup of orange juice or Triple Sec (or other orange liqueur), 1/4 cup of agave nectar, honey, or your favorite sweetener. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or for best results, overnight.
Right before serving, add 1/2 bottle of sparkling wine and pour into chilled glasses. Serve with a sprig of mint for garnish.
Wine recommendation:
Milano Cellars Misti Bianco
Fleur Bleu 2014 White Bouquet
Petit Cadeau Semi-Seco Sparkling Wine
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