Sipping Warmth: Elevate Your Winter Evenings with Enchanting Wine Cocktails

In recent years, the world of wine has evolved, embracing innovation, versatility and creativity, giving rise to a delightful fusion of flavours in the form of wine cocktails. With innovative recipes featuring unique combinations of varietals, fruits, and artisanal spirits, wine cocktails have become the go-to choice for those seeking a refreshing departure from conventional beverages confined to traditional glasses and sipped during formal occasions. Wine cocktails are steadily becoming staples at trendy bars, social gatherings, and home celebrations alike, their popularity lying in their ability to bridge the gap between the classic sophistication of wine and the vibrant, diverse world of cocktails, captivating the palates of enthusiasts and novices alike. 

As winter wraps its chilly embrace around us, there's no better time to explore the world of winter wine cocktails, with these concoctions promising to add a touch of sophistication and warmth to your celebrations, where each sip is a delightful escape from the cold.

Red Wine Cocktails

Mulled Wine Bliss:

Mulled Wine is a classic winter red wine cocktail that has stood the test of time. Combine a robust red wine such as our Kay Syrah with aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, plus a hint of sweetness in the form of honey or maple syrup. Let it simmer gently on the stove and its fragrance will fill the air with cozy winter scents. Garnish with orange slices for a fragrant and comforting drink that captures the essence of winter in every sip.



Cranberry Cabernet Sparkler:

Add a festive touch to your winter evenings with the Cranberry Cabernet Sparkler. Simply mix Cabernet Sauvignon with cranberry juice and a splash of sparkling water. The result is a vibrant and effervescent red wine cocktail that balances the boldness of red wine with the tartness of cranberries, creating a drink that's both refreshing and celebratory.

Canadian Cabernet Campfire Cooler:

Transport yourself to a cozy campfire setting with the Canadian Cabernet Campfire Cooler. Mix a robust Canadian Cabernet Sauvignon with a splash of ginger ale and a squeeze of lemon juice. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for a hint of smokiness. This red wine cocktail is perfect for cool evenings, evoking the spirit of Canadian camping adventures.

Tip: Add a touch of Canadian rye whiskey for an extra layer of warmth!

Winter Sangria Frost:

Reinvent the traditional sangria with a winter twist. For a comforting winter red wine sangria, combine a full-bodied red wine such as our Bordello with brandy, orange liqueur, and a medley of winter fruits (think pomegranate seeds, sliced apples, and cranberries). Allow the flavours to meld in the refrigerator, serving a chilled Winter Sangria Frost that captures the essence of the season. 

Tip: Swap out the red wine for a crisp white such as our versatile Riesling to create a light and refreshing white wine sangria. 

Vanilla Spice Merlot Mule:

Introduce a touch of spice to your winter evenings with the Vanilla Spice Merlot Mule. Mix Merlot with ginger beer, vanilla extract, and a dash of cinnamon. Serve over ice with a cinnamon stick for stirring. This red wine cocktail offers a delightful balance of sweet and spicy notes, making it a perfect companion for fireside relaxation.

Rosemary Pinot Noir Hot Toddy:

Elevate the classic Hot Toddy by infusing Pinot Noir with the earthy aroma of rosemary. Add honey, a splash of hot water, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a soothing and aromatic winter red wine cocktail. Sip on this Rosemary-infused Pinot Noir Hot Toddy to experience a perfect blend of herbal warmth and the velvety richness of red wine.

Maple Wine Old Fashioned:

Give the timeless Old Fashioned a distinctly Canadian twist by incorporating the nation's liquid gold – maple syrup. In a mixing glass, muddle a sugar cube with a few dashes of aromatic bitters. Add your choice of Canadian red wine (we love this cocktail made with our Dangerous Liason red wine), a splash of maple syrup, and ice. Stir well, strain over ice, and garnish with an orange twist. The Maple Wine Old Fashioned is a rich and satisfying red wine cocktail that marries the warmth of maple with the depth of Canadian red wine.

White Wine Cocktails

Madam’s Mojito Madness:

Transform the classic mojito into a slightly sweeter, herbal delight by swapping out the traditional white rum for a sweeter white wine such as our Madam’s Gewurztraminer (15.53  g/L of residual sugar). Muddle fresh mint leaves, lime wedges, and a touch of sugar (to your taste). Add ice and top it off with the white wine. The Madam’s Mojito Madness is a harmonious blend of sweet, herbal, and citrusy flavours, creating a refreshing white wine cocktail that's perfect for any occasion.

Boreal Berry Bubbly:

Embrace the flavours of the Canadian wilderness with the Boreal Berry Bubbly sparkling white wine cocktail. This is in the same style as prosecco cocktails. Prosecco is a sparkling white wine specifically from the Veneto region of Italy, but you can use any sparkling wine to replace the prosecco cocktail base and achieve the same effect. Infuse the sparkling wine with a medley of wild berries, such as blueberries, Saskatoon berries, or cranberries. This white wine cocktail not only pays homage to Canada's diverse flora but also delivers a burst of refreshing, fruity goodness in every sip.

Tip: For an extra Canadian twist, add a touch of spruce tip syrup.

Prairie Sunset Punch:

Capture the beauty of a prairie sunset in a glass with the Prairie Sunset Punch. Combine a crisp white wine with peach schnapps, orange juice, and a hint of cranberry juice. Garnish with slices of fresh peaches and a sprig of mint. This vibrant and fruity white wine cocktail offers a delightful blend of flavours that dance on the palate.

Rosé Berry Bliss: 

Break away from tradition with the Rosé Berry Bliss cocktail. Mix rosé wine (our Hush Rosé is perfect for this cocktail) with a blend of strawberries, raspberries, and a hint of elderflower liqueur. Shake well with ice and strain into a chilled glass. The result? A visually stunning pink drink with a delightful balance of floral and fruity notes.

Gingered White Wine Punch: 

For a drink with a kick, try the Gingered White Wine Punch. Mix a slightly sweet white wine such as our Woo-Woo Gewurztraminer with the zesty flavours of ginger ale and ginger syrup, adding slices of lemon and lime for a citrusy twist. Served over ice, this cocktail is a refreshing and invigorating option for winter festivities.

Vanilla Pear White Wine Cocktail:

Indulge your sweet tooth with the Vanilla Pear White Wine Cocktail. Combine a white wine such as our popular Hush White with pear juice and a hint of vanilla extract, and finish with a splash of club soda for some fizz. Garnish with a slice of pear for an extra touch of elegance.

Icy White Cosmo: 

For those who appreciate a touch of sophistication, the Icy White Cosmo is an excellent choice. Blending white cranberry juice, white wine (try our Secret Affair for this white wine cocktail), elderflower liqueur, and a splash of lime juice, this cocktail strikes a perfect balance between sweet and tart. Shake it up and serve in a martini glass for a chic winter affair.

The world of wine cocktails invites you to break free from traditional boundaries and explore the limitless possibilities that wine offers. These innovative recipes not only cater to the discerning tastes of wine enthusiasts but also open the door to a broader audience looking for exciting, flavourful alternatives. So, whether you're hosting a party or simply looking to elevate your personal wine experience, give these innovative wine cocktails a try and embark on a journey of delightful sips and creative twists.