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Wine-based drinks: a guide to elegance and creativity
Wine is one of the world's most beloved drinks, with a long history stretching back thousands of years. But wine is not just something to enjoy in a glass - it is also a great base for creating elegant and refreshing drinks. Wine-based cocktails combine the subtle flavors of wine with other ingredients to create drinks suitable for any occasion, from brunches to festive dinners. In this article, we explore the role of wine in mixology, its versatility and why wine-based drinks have become so popular.
What are wine-based drinks?
Wine-based drinks are cocktails in which wine is used as the main ingredient or an important component. They can be made with different types of wine, including white, red, rosé and sparkling. Combining wine with fruit juices, liqueurs, sodas or other flavorings creates unique drinks that balance acidity, sweetness and freshness.
The history of wine-based drinks
The use of wine in cocktails has a long history. As far back as ancient times, wine was mixed with spices and honey to create drinks that were both flavorful and durable. In the Middle Ages, wine was used in punch-like drinks served at grand celebrations. In the 19th century, bartenders started experimenting with sparkling wines like champagne to create luxurious cocktails like the French 75 and the Champagne Cocktail.
In the 20th century, wine drinks such as sangria and spritzers became popular thanks to their refreshing character and simplicity. Today, bartenders continue to develop new recipes using wine as a base, making this category of drinks both timeless and innovative.
Why are wine-based drinks so popular?
Wine-based drinks have become a staple in bars and homes around the world thanks to their unique properties:
- Lightness: They are often lower in alcohol than spirit-based cocktails, making them perfect for longer events.
- Versatility: Wine can be combined with a variety of ingredients to create both sweet and sour drinks.
- Elegance: The natural complexity of the wine brings a sophisticated feel to any cocktail.
- Accessibility: Wine is found in almost every home and is easy to use as a base for simple but impressive drinks.
Classic wine-based drinks
Wine has given us some of the most iconic cocktails of all time. Here are some classic examples:
- Sangria: A fruity Spanish cocktail made with red or white wine, fruit pieces and fruit soda.
- Aperol Spritz: An Italian favorite where prosecco is combined with Aperol and soda water.
- Mimosa: A brunch classic with equal parts orange juice and sparkling wine.
- Kir: An elegant French drink where dry white wine is mixed with crème de cassis.
- French 75: A luxurious cocktail made with sparkling wine, gin, lemon juice and sugar syrup.
Modern trends in wine-based drinks
In recent years, bartenders have taken wine drinks to new heights by experimenting with flavors and techniques. Here are some of the latest trends:
Clarified cocktails
By using techniques such as clarification, bartenders create crystal clear versions of traditional wine drinks. This gives an elegant look without compromising on taste.
Flavored wines
Flavored wines with hints of fruit or flowers are increasingly used in modern cocktails to add extra dimensions to the taste.
Tropical elements
Tropical fruits such as passion fruit, mango or pineapple are often used with white or sparkling wine to create exotic drinks.
Alternative wines
Bartenders are also experimenting with less traditional wines such as orange wine or natural wine to create unique cocktails.
The role of wine in mixology
Wine is not only a basic ingredient but also a tool for creativity in mixology. Its natural acidity and complex flavor profile make it possible to create balanced drinks where each ingredient contributes to the whole without overwhelming the taste. Sparkling wines provide bubbles and lightness, while red wine can add depth and richness.