Delicious Recipe: Wine Mint Julep – Try It Now!
Welcome to my wine mint julep recipe! As a sommelier, I am always thinking about new and exciting ways to incorporate wine into different cocktails. This refreshing take on the classic mint julep is a perfect summer cocktail that will leave you wanting more.
The combination of fresh mint and wine create a flavor profile that is both sweet and tangy. This cocktail is perfect for any occasion, from a backyard BBQ to a fancy dinner party.
If you’ve never made a mint julep before, don’t worry – this recipe is easy to follow, and I will guide you through every step. So sit back, relax, and let’s get started on making this delicious wine mint julep cocktail!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you are looking for a refreshing drink on a hot summer day, you have come to the right place! The Wine Mint Julep Recipe that I am about to share with you is exactly what you need. This cocktail recipe is a perfect mix of simplicity and elegance that makes it suitable for any occasion.
The first reason why you’ll love this mint julep recipe is its versatility. It’s easy to make and can be adapted to suit your preferences or the occasion at hand. You can make it with red wine, white wine or even prosecco depending on your mood, and each version is equally delightful. Besides, if you’re not a fan of bourbon, the low proof versions will suit your taste buds.
The second reason why this cocktail recipe will appeal to you is its use of fresh mint. Not only does it give the drink an amazing aroma but it also adds complexity to the flavors of the cocktail. By muddling the mint leaves, you release essential oils and maximize their natural flavor profile. The end result is a sophisticated yet refreshing drink.
Lastly and most importantly, the Wine Mint Julep Recipe pairs well with several dishes making it one of the most versatile cocktails out there. If you plan on enjoying a light meal or appetizer alongside this mint julep, I recommend pairing it with cheese platters, seafood dishes or even pineapple bites for added sweetness.
In conclusion, whether you’re looking to shake things up for summer entertaining or simply hoping to expand upon one of classic cocktail recipes often served at Kentucky Derby parties and other events – this Wine Mint Julep Recipe does not disappoint. Trust me when I say that once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredient List
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 pint red wine (I recommend using Beringer Bros. Bourbon Barrel Aged Red Blend)
- 8 fresh mint leaves plus mint sprigs for garnish
- ½ oz simple syrup (2 oz for sweeter)
- 2 oz bourbon, preferably overproof
- Crushed ice
- Prosecco or sparkling wine, for topping
Don’t have all of these ingredients in your pantry or bar? Don’t worry! Check out the substitutions and variations section to see what else you can use to make this delicious wine mint julep cocktail.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have gone through the ingredient list, let’s dive into how to create the perfect Wine Mint Julep!
Step 1: Muddle Mint
First, in a julep cup or rocks glass, gently muddle 8 mint leaves with ½ oz of simple syrup. Make sure not to over-muddle the mint as it can release bitter flavors.
Step 2: Add Red Wine and Bourbon
Next, combine 1-2 oz of red wine, 2 oz of bourbon (preferably overproof), and gently stir until well combined.
Step 3: Crushed Ice and Prosecco
Fill the glass with crushed ice and top it off with prosecco. You can also use sparkling wine or champagne if that’s your preference.
Step 4: Garnish with Mint Sprigs
Finally, add more crushed ice as needed and garnish with five mint leaves plus mint sprigs on top for an extra pop of aroma and flavor.
Voila! Your Wine Mint Julep is ready! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different quantities to find your personal sweet spot.
Substitutions and Variations
When it comes to the wine mint julep recipe, there are various substitutions and variations you can make to suit your taste buds. You can experiment with different types of wine or use a combination of sparkling wine and white wine to give the drink a new twist.
If you’re looking for a low-proof option, you can substitute bourbon with rum or vodka. For a non-alcoholic version, you can skip the alcohol altogether and use iced tea or lemonade instead.
If you want to add some fruity flavors, you can try adding pineapple or lime juice to the mix. This will give your drink a tangy twist that will complement the mint flavors nicely.
For a sparkling mint julep version, substitute the bourbon with champagne or prosecco. This will give your drink an extra fizz that is perfect for celebrations.
You can also garnish your drink with fresh fruit slices and mint leaves instead of using sprigs of mint for an added pop of color.
Ultimately, the variations and substitutions you make depend on your preference and taste. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different combinations to find your perfect wine mint julep cocktail recipe.
Serving and Pairing
A Wine Mint Julep is a refreshing and minty cocktail that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of dishes. This cocktail is perfect for summer gatherings or special occasions, such as Kentucky Derby.
When serving the Wine Mint Julep, it’s traditional to use a silver or pewter julep cup filled with crushed ice. The cup is then garnished with mint sprigs and served with a straw. For a modern twist, you may also use rocks glasses or stemless wine glasses.
Wine Mint Julep pairs well with light appetizers and fresh salads, such as fruit salad with pineapple and mango, caprese salad, or shrimp cocktail. It’s also a great complement to spicy foods like buffalo wings or Cajun-style seafood boil.
If you’re looking to pair this cocktail with a meal, consider serving it with grilled chicken or shrimp skewers. The wine in this recipe makes it an excellent pairing for grilled meats and vegetables.
For a bit of sweetness, pair your Wine Mint Julep with dessert like fresh berry trifle or lemon pound cake. The combination of mint and fruit flavors makes it a perfect complement to fruity desserts.
Overall, Wine Mint Julep is an incredibly versatile cocktail that can pair well with a wide range of dishes. Experiment with the pairing options to find your perfect match!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
The Wine Mint Julep recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to two days before serving. It’s a great recipe to have prepared for hosting guests or just for a relaxing evening at home.
When storing, I suggest separating the mint sprigs from the drink mixture and refrigerating them separately. This will ensure that the mint stays fresh and vibrant, and it will make for a beautiful presentation when you serve the drink.
To reheat, simply pour the mixture into a small saucepan and heat on low until warmed through. Be sure not to let it boil, as this can impact the texture and flavor of the drink.
If you’re planning on serving a larger group, you may want to consider making a batch of the Wine Mint Julep mix ahead of time and then adding in the sparkling wine or prosecco just before serving. This will make it easier to serve a larger group quickly and will also allow you to adjust the sweetness level based on individual preferences.
Overall, with its deliciously refreshing flavor profile and simple preparation process, the Wine Mint Julep is an ideal cocktail recipe for any occasion. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a light meal or appetizer, this versatile cocktail is sure to impress your guests and become a new favorite in your repertoire.
Tips for Perfect Results
To create a truly perfect wine mint julep, there are a few key tips to keep in mind. First and foremost, make sure you are using fresh mint leaves for your cocktail. The aroma of fresh mint will truly elevate the taste of the drink, and using wilted or old mint won’t give you the same experience.
Another important aspect is the method of muddling. Be careful not to over-muddle the mint leaves as this can result in a bitter-tasting cocktail. Instead, gently press on the leaves to release their oils and flavors.
When it comes to using crushed ice, try to use ice cubes that aren’t too small, as they will melt faster and dilute the drink more quickly. Additionally, using high-quality crushed ice will give your cocktail an attractive presentation and keep it at a consistent temperature throughout.
For the wine component of the julep recipe, opt for a red wine with good structure and balanced tannins, such as Beringer Bros Bourbon Barrel Aged Red Blend or another suitable variety. For best results, avoid using overly sweet or acidic wines.
When it comes to pairing suggestions, consider serving your wine mint julep alongside dishes like grilled shrimp skewers or bacon-wrapped scallops with a lemon aioli dipping sauce. The lightness and freshness of these dishes complement the bright flavors of the cocktail perfectly.
Lastly, be creative with variations by including sparkling wine or prosecco in place of some of the traditional ingredients for a sparkling mint julep or champagne julep. Alternatively, you could add pineapple for a tropical twist on this classic cocktail. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to create a refreshing and delicious wine mint julep that’s perfect for any occasion!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the wine mint julep is a refreshing and unique twist on the classic mint julep that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are lounging by the pool or hosting a Kentucky Derby party, this cocktail recipe is sure to impress your guests.
By using red wine, you get a rich and complex flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the simple syrup and the freshness of the mint. Additionally, it leaves room for experimentation with different types of red wine to develop your own unique take on this classic cocktail.
Overall, I highly recommend giving this wine mint julep recipe a try. With its refreshing taste and sophisticated twist, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your cocktail repertoire. So go ahead and mix up a batch for your next gathering and enjoy the sweet taste of success!
Wine Mint Julep Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup orange juice
- 2 cups strawberry lemonade
- 12 fresh mint sprigs
- 1 1/2 cups boiling water
- 1 pint red wine, such as a dry rose or 1 pint chianti wine
Instructions
- Add mint springs to boiling water and let stand five minutes. Strain and add to fruit juices. Cool.
- Just before serving, add red wine to mint/fruit juice mixture. Pour into glasses filled with ice.
- You may want to adjust the wine to mint/fruit juice to your tastes.