As the temperature drops and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing better than a comforting and sophisticated drink to enjoy under a warm blanket. When it comes to winter beverages, red wines are an absolute must-have on your seasonal menu. However, this winter, don't limit yourself to just drinking a glass of red wine; add some warmth to your cosy nights with these season-appropriate red wine cocktails.

Here are the top easy red wine cocktails that are simple to make at home, whether you're hosting dinner or just relaxing on the couch. Every sip of these delectable recipes will be a treat as they bring a touch of refinement and cosiness to your chilly days.

Top 5 Red Wine Cocktails To Make at Home This Winter

Winter cocktails are often an overlooked option, but whether you're a cocktail lover or just prefer the occasional drink, we've got you covered. Your opinion on winter cocktails will be transformed by these five of the best and easiest red wine cocktails. Now take your favourite red wine, or choose our best pick, and be ready to sip and enjoy!

1. Mulled Wine – The Classic Winter Warmer

Starting with a true classic, mulled wine is the perfect way to embrace the winter season. This red wine cocktail is incredibly popular and one of the most celebrated drinks during winter, especially at special occasions and festive gatherings. A fine glass of mulled wine offers a sophisticated yet comforting taste, adding warmth to your cosy days. To enhance the flavours of traditional mulled wine, opt for Cabernet Sauvignon—its rich character will elevate your drinking experience even more.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon 
• 1 orange, sliced into rounds and peeled
• 8 whole cloves
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2-star anise
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1/4 cup brandy

Instructions

• In a saucepan, add your favourite red wine, brandy, spices, orange slices, and honey.

• Mix all of them well and heat at medium-high until it simmers.

• Cover and let it cook on low heat for at least 1 hour to deepen flavours.

• Strain out the fruits and spices before serving.

• Serve immediately or reheat slowly when willing to enjoy.

Our Top Pick For Cabernet Sauvignon

Bleasdale Heritage Mulberry Tree Langhorne Creek Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 375ml -12 Bottles

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2. Red Wine Hot Chocolate – A Decadent Indulgence

This is for all the chocolate lovers out there, this red wine hot chocolate is the ultimate drink to warm up your winter. The rich, smooth and creamy texture of hot cocoa works amazingly with the bold and fruity flavours of red wine, overall giving a luxurious and delicious taste. An excellent bottle of rich, smooth Merlot red wine will enhance the chocolatey richness of this cocktail, which is ideal for cosy evenings.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle of Merlot

• 2 cups whole milk

• ½ cup heavy cream

• 1 cup dark chocolate, finely chopped

• 2 tbsp sugar (optional)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Whipped cream and chocolate for garnish (optional)

Instructions

• In a pan, heat milk and heavy cream over medium heat until it gets warm.

• Add chopped dark chocolate and keep stirring until completely melted.

• Pour in your favourite Merlot red wine and mix well, letting it warm up making sure it doesn't boil much.

• Add a few drops of vanilla extract and sugar as per your liking.

• Your hot chocolate is ready to be served hot, topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for presentation.

Our Top Pick For Merlot

Angove Organic Merlot 2021 South Australia - 6 Bottles

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3. Apple Cider Red Wine Cocktail – A Spiced Delight

This delicious drink, made with apple cider and red wine, is bursting with warm spices and autumnal flavours. The natural crispness and complex flavours of apple cider complement the robust flavours of Grenache, yielding a pleasant and refreshing beverage ideal for sipping by the fireside.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle of Grenache

• 2 cups apple cider

• ¼ cup brandy

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 3 whole cloves

• 1 star anise

• 1 apple, thinly sliced

• 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional)

Instructions

• In a saucepan, add your pick of Grenache red wine, apple cider, brandy, and spices.

• Stir and heat over medium-high heat until it starts to simmer.

• Cover and let simmer on low heat for 30 minutes to combine the flavours.

• Strain out the spices, then pour them into glasses.

• Garnish with apple slices and serve warm.

Our Top Pick For Grenache

Maxwell Four Roads Old Vine Grenache 2022 McLaren Vale - 6 Bottles

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4. Spiced Red Wine Toddy – A Soothing Sip

This Spiced Red Wine Toddy is a twist on the typical hot toddy, combining the strong flavour of Syrah or Shiraz with warming spices and a hint of honey for a smooth, calming drink. It's the ideal cocktail to relax with on colder days.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle of Syrah or Shiraz

• ¼ cup honey

• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice

• ½ cup hot water

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 3 whole cloves

• 1 star anise

• Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

• In a saucepan, warm the red wine, honey, and spices over low heat (do not boil).

• Add hot water and fresh lemon juice, and give them a good mix.

• Let it simmer on low for 15–20 minutes to blend the flavours.

• Strain out the spices, then pour them into glasses of your choice.

• Garnish with lemon slices and serve warm.

Our Top Pick For Shiraz/Syrah

Wyndham Estate Bin 555 Shiraz 2023 SEA - 6 Bottles

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5. Rosemary Pinot Noir Hot Toddy – A Herbal Twist

This Rosemary Pinot Noir Hot Toddy is an aromatic and herbaceous version of a classic hot toddy. Pinot Noir's delicate, fruity aromas complement rosemary, honey, and citrus, resulting in a peaceful and elegant winter cocktail.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle of Pinot Noir

• ¼ cup honey

• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice

• ½ cup hot water

• 1 rosemary sprig (plus extra for garnish)

• 1 cinnamon stick

• Lemon peel for garnish

Instructions

• In a saucepan, add your preferred Pinot Noir, honey, rosemary, and cinnamon over low heat.

• Stir in hot water and fresh lemon juice, letting the mixture warm without boiling.

• Simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld.

• Strain out the rosemary and cinnamon, then pour into glasses.

• Garnish with a rosemary sprig and lemon peel before serving warm.

Our Top Pick For Pinot Noir

Jacobs Creek Reserve South Australia Pinot Noir 2022 - 6 Bottles

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This winter, make these best red wine cocktails at home and indulge in cosy and savoury delights best for cold days. These red wine cocktails are not only simple to make, but they also add a rich and sophisticated touch to special occasions and festive gatherings. Looking for premium red wines to boost your cocktails and turn them into a true statement of quality? With Just Wines, you can explore an exquisite range of red wines online in Australia, and we'll deliver the finest bottles right to your doorstep, allowing you to discover the world of wines from the comfort of your home. Explore our best collection today, and if you're new to us, enjoy $20 off your first-ever purchase!