Most people enjoy red wine on its own. And indeed, sipping a big glass of red wine can be very relaxing after a long day. However, you can also change things up and use that red wine to make some cocktails. Here are four red wine cocktails you can create in your own kitchen.

1. Red Wine Sour

Sours are traditionally made with whiskey, and you can make a really unique one by adding a little red wine. For one cocktail, you need:

  • 2 ounces of your favorite whiskey
  • 1 ounce lemon juice
  • 1 ounce simple syrup
  • 1 ounce red wine
  • 1 teaspoon raspberry jam

Combine the whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and jam in a cocktail shaker. Add some crushed ice, and shake until frost beads up on the shaker. Pour the cocktail into a glass, and add your red wine. Enjoy!

2. Cinnamon Mulled Wine

This cocktail is a nice, warm one to enjoy on a cool night. You can substitute apple juice or cider for the apple brandy if you don't want the drink to be so strong. Here are the ingredients:

  • 3 ounces water
  • 2 ounces apple brandy
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon simple syrup
  • 2 ounces red wine, room temperature
  • cinnamon

Combine the water, apple brandy, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a mug. Microwave it for 20 seconds or until warm. Stir in your red wine, and sprinkle with cinnamon. Garnish with a cinnamon stick, if desired.

3. Red Wine Lemon Bitters

You might not think the flavors of red wine and bitters would go together well, but they do. This is a strong cocktail and one you'll want to sip slowly. You will need:

  • 3 ounces limoncello
  • 1 drop vanilla extract
  • 2 drops bitters
  • 2 ounces red wine

Combine the limoncello, vanilla extract, bitters, and red wine in a cocktail glass. Stir well, and add a large cube of ice and a straw.

4. Feisty Margarita

If you love margaritas, this one provides a unique twist. You will need:

  • 2 ounces lime juice
  • 1 ounce simple syrup
  • 1 shot tequila
  • 1/2 teaspoon orange liqueur
  • 1 ounce red wine

Combine all of the ingredients in a cocktail shaker over ice. Shake well, and pour into a salt-rimmed margarita glass. Enjoy!

Each of these red wine cocktails has its own character. They are all a nice change when you want something other than a plain glass of red wine.

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