The custom of using wine (and not just Prosecco) as a basic ingredient in mixology might seem something modern, but in fact this custom dates back to the 19th century, with the intention of lowering the alcohol content of cocktails and achieving a pleasant, light drink through vinology.

Today, wine-based cocktails are increasingly popular, due to their freshness and the aromatic charge with which they tickle the palate. However, it is not enough to simply uncork a good bottle and start mixing: this subtle art requires balance, care and a good knowledge of raw materials. Here are 5 of the best cocktails with wine to sip with friends!

1. Wine and cocktails: Cabernet Cobbler brings red back into fashion

There are those who think that the secret to a good wine-based cocktail is the use of a quality bubbly, light and refreshing, with that typical effervescence that makes every sip a lively experience. The truth is that, although there are labels more suitable than others, every type of wine can be used in mixology.

The Cabernet Cobbler - one of the best cocktails with red wine - proves this. Originating in America in the 19th century, this drink beguiles the consumer with intense fruity aromas and an elegant sip, imparted by the Cabernet.

When choosing the right label, one can play it safe by uncorking a '196' Cabernet Sauvignon Costa Toscana IGT 2021, characterised by a ruby red colour and an aromatic bouquet that mixes fruity and vegetal notes in a balanced combination, enlivened by a sour nuance.

To enjoy this cocktail, simply dissolve a teaspoon of sugar with a splash of lemon juice and 6 cl water in a wine glass (no other bartender tools required), then add a few ice cubes and 12 cl Cabernet. A zest of curled orange peel and the garnish is done too!

2. Peach Wine Cooler: for those who want summer back

Those nostalgic for summer will experience the arrival of autumn with a lump in their throat, which can, however, be eased with a sip of Peach Wine Cooler. With its fruity and refreshing taste, this drink is ideal for those who want to hold on to the best summer memories, between dips in the pool, walks along the promenade and group aperitifs.

Originating in California in the 1980s, Wine Coolers are low-alcohol, light and easy-drinking drinks, usually based on wine and fruit juice. In this particular case, it is the peach that gives the cocktail its distinctive organoleptic profile, balanced by the sour aftertaste of orange juice.

The first step in preparing the Peach Wine Cooler is to peel and slice two ripe peaches, which are then pureed in a blender with 3 cl peach schnapps and 6 cl orange juice. The mixture is then strained through a colander and poured into a classic wine glass or high tumbler with a couple of ice cubes, to which 12 cl white wine is then added.

The ideal choice might be a Pinot Grigio, but not just any Pinot Grigio: the 'Grappoli' Pinot Grigio Collio DOC 2022, for example, has all the right credentials to enrich this cocktail with its unique aromatic profile, which mixes sweet notes of white-fleshed fruit with the refreshing hint of citrus. Finally, the aromatic herbs lend a special touch to the whole. Mineral and persistent on the palate, it gives exactly what is required of a summer drink: taste and lightheartedness.

3. Kir: discovering a great classic
 

Among the many excellent fruits of wine-based mixology, the Kir is one of those great classics that is preceded by its own fame, fuelled perhaps by its refined French origin, or by the elegant deep red robe it sports in the goblet. 

The first appearance of this cocktail with white wine is said to have occurred in Burgundy in the 19th century, thanks to the clergyman and mayor of Dijon, Fèlix Adrien Kir, who used to offer it to his guests at parties.

Whether it is truth or hearsay matters little: the only thing that is certain is that to enjoy this drink is to be won over by the balance between the slightly acidic tones of the wine and the sweet, intense tones of crème de cassis, a creamy blackcurrant liqueur.

Cocktail recipes include Chablis, while those who appreciate Italian labels more can count on a bottle of 'Bottega Vinai' Chardonnay Trentino DOC 2022, with aromas of apple, pineapple and apricot, and a full, persistent flavour.

The proportions are simple: 15 cl fresh white wine, 1 cl liqueur and a small skewer of blackcurrants as decoration, and the cocktail is served!

4. Campari-Fennel Aperitif: the unusual cocktail with Prosecco
 

Fennel is usually attributed digestive properties, especially when consumed in herbal teas, but this ingredient also finds a place in mixology, thanks to the Campari-Fennel Aperitif. For those who want to conquer their friends with a tasty drink with unusual notes - far more original than the classic Spritz or Mojito - this cocktail is the perfect demonstration that wine and mixology can go hand in hand and guarantee excellent results!

Along with fennel, the great protagonist is sparkling wine, which gives the drink that lively touch that should never be missing during an aperitif. In this case, the perfect choice is a great classic like Prosecco, provided it is of good quality, such as a Prosecco 'Cuvée 1926' Valdobbiadene Superiore DOCG. It takes about 12 cl to give the drink an irresistible aroma of white-fleshed fruit, such as apple and pear, as well as exotic hints, while the addition of Campari gives roundness, body and a slightly bitter aftertaste to the whole.

In a shaker, pound the fennel leaves (a handful is enough) with half a lemon in chunks. Then add the sparkling wine, 2 cl Campari, 1.5 cl sugar syrup and a few ice cubes. Shake well and then strain into a low tumbler or martini glass.

Finally, the garnish consists of a sprig of fennel and a slice of lemon. Simple, tasty and impressive, with its striking pink colour!

5. Sprezzatura Royale: elegance and ease in cocktail format
 

Among the best wine cocktail recipes, there is also a rosé proposal: the Sprezzatura Royale. So called because of its jaunty elegance (the term sprezzatura in fashion indicates in fact a nonchalant and almost nonchalant attitude), this drink is appreciated for the liveliness of its aromas and the light-heartedness of its foam, which tickles the lips with every sip. Also noteworthy is its rich taste, conferred by the variety of its ingredients.

First of all we start with some liqueur, in this case 3 cl Amaro Nonino, to be placed in a shaker together with a few ice cubes, cognac, freshly squeezed lemon juice and honey syrup in equal parts (1.5 cl).

After shaking well, it is filtered and poured into a flûte-type glass, to which 4.5 cl of sparkling rosé wine is then added. A good example of this is an 'Oroperla' Spumante Rosé Millesimato Extra Dry, a Trentino wine made from Chardonnay and Refosco that smells of flowers, cherries, strawberries and yeast, with a light acidic note that lends liveliness to the palate.

The finishing touch for a cocktail that is not only refreshingly good, but also beautiful to look at? A cherry on the bottom, to be enjoyed when the cocktail is finished!

Want to organise an aperitif with wine cocktails? The best place to start is the Svinando catalogue!