Wine is not only a drink that you enjoy as such, but also the main ingredient in some of the most beloved cocktails in the world. If you want to impress your friends with a delicious cocktail, we invite you to discover two easy-to-prepare recipes. In addition, you will find out what are the trends of the year in mixology, as well as some essential tips to perfect your technique. Two recipes for delicious cocktails that you can make at home
1. Sangria One of the most well-known wine-based cocktails, Sangria is a balanced blend of fruit, wine, and brandy. Here's how you can prepare it:
Ingredients:
750 ml red wine: choose a dry, fruity red wine, such as this Bodegas Juan Gil Bluegray, D.O.Q Priorat 2019 wine, with a blend of 45% Garnacha, 30% Cariñena (Carignan) and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, with aromas of black fruits and well-ripened cherries.
Half an apple, cut into small pieces
Half a medium orange (peeled, cut into small pieces)
3-4 tablespoons brown sugar
3/4 cup orange juice
1/3 cup brandy
Ice
Preparation:
Add the apples, oranges, and sugar to a large carafe and stir with a muddler or wooden spoon for 45 seconds.
Add the orange juice and brandy and stir again for 30 seconds.
Add the red wine and mix, then taste and adjust the flavor: you can add more brandy, orange juice and brown sugar.
Add ice and stir once more, then garnish with orange pieces (optional).
2. Summer Red
If you want a simpler and more refreshing cocktail, Tinto de Verano is an inspired choice. This Spanish cocktail, which translates to "the red wine of summer", is very popular in Spain, especially on hot summer days.
Ingredients:
Red wine, for example this Portia Prima wine, D.O. Ribera del Duero, with aromas of candied fruit, spices, mint and roasted coffee beans, aged for 15 months in new French oak barrels.
Lemon-flavored soda
Ice cubes
Lemon slices for decoration
Preparation:
Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.
Pour red wine halfway through the glass.
Top with the lemon-flavored juice so that the proportion is 50%-50%.
Stir gently and garnish with a slice of lemon.
2025 cocktail trends
The mixology industry is constantly evolving, and 2025 brings some exciting trends that influence the way cocktails are created and enjoyed.
1. Minimalist cocktails
Minimalist cocktails are gaining popularity through their emphasis on simplicity and quality ingredients. Classic drinks like Negroni, Martini, or Daiquiri prove that fewer ingredients can create a sophisticated flavor profile.
2. Multisensory cocktails
Cocktails are increasingly becoming multisensory experiences. According to VML Inligence, quoted by the Bartender Spirits Awards, 72% of consumers want their senses to be stimulated as much as possible. Drinks that surprise through presentation, taste and interactivity are becoming increasingly popular, and mixologists create recipes that offer strong emotions, such as amazement or joy.
3. Classic cocktails reinterpreted
Classic cocktails are reimagined, for example the spicy Martini with cucumbers and the Paloma with whiskey. As flavor exploration continues, RTD (ready-to-drink) brands that offer depth, purpose, and uniqueness will stand out in an increasingly competitive market.
Tips for a successful cocktail
Choose a fruity red wine, but not too sweet, to maintain the balance of flavors.
Use fruits that are as fresh and aromatic as possible.
Chill cocktails well before serving.
Experiment with other fruits or spices until you find the option that suits you best.
We are waiting for you on SmartDrinks.ro to discover a wide range of drinks perfect for delicious cocktails!
