As the summer heat rolls in, there's nothing quite like a refreshing wine cocktail to cool you down and make for the perfect outdoor gatherings. Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ or lounging by the pool, these five wine-based drinks are sure to impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds. Here are some creative ways to enjoy your favorite wines this season.

Zesty Citrus Rosé Spritzer

Kick off your summer get-together with this refreshing spritzer that perfectly balances sweet and sour tastes.

Ingredients:

• 4 oz Argyle Rosé 

• 4 oz grapefruit juice or soda

• 4 oz fresh lime juice

• 1 oz lime simple syrup

• Lime wedge for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare lime simple syrup by combining 1/4 cup each of sugar and water with lime zest in a small pot. Heat until boiling, stirring constantly. Cool and refrigerate.

2. In a cocktail shaker, combine rosé, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and simple syrup.

3. Shake well and pour into a sugar-rimmed glass filled with crushed ice.

4. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Fruity White Sangria

You can’t go wrong with this fruity and refreshing white sangria that will be the perfect touch to your backyard party.

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle (25 oz) Forge Cellars Dry Riesling

• 48 oz Sprite

• 1.7 oz fresh lemon juice

• 8.5 oz peach schnapps

• 8.5 oz white rum

• 2 peaches, peeled and sliced

• 1 cup fresh raspberries

• 2 mangoes, peeled and diced

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher, combine all ingredients and stir well.

2. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.

3. Serve over ice!

Classic White Wine Spritzer

Sometimes, simplicity is key. This timeless spritzer is easy to make and always satisfying.

Ingredients:

• Chilled Alta Orsa Chardonnay

• Club soda

• Lemon or lime slice

Instructions:

1. Fill a glass halfway with chilled Chardonnay.

2. Top with club soda until the glass is three-quarters full.

3. Stir gently and garnish with a citrus slice.

Bold Red Wine Sangria

For those who prefer red wine, this sangria offers a blend of fruity flavors and strong wine notes.

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle (25 oz) Daou Cabernet Sauvignon

• 17 oz Spanish brandy or dark rum

• 17 oz lemonade

• 2 cups mixed berries

• 2 oranges, roughly chopped

• Ice

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher, muddle the chopped oranges.

2. Add wine and brandy, then refrigerate for an hour to infuse flavors.

3. Stir in berries and lemonade.

4. Serve over ice.

Sparkling Aperol Mimosa

Put a twist on the classic Aperol spritz with this bubbly mimosa variation.

Ingredients:

• 0.7 oz Aperol

• 0.7 oz orange juice

• 0.7 oz sparkling white wine or champagne

Instructions:

1. Pour Aperol and orange juice into a champagne flute.

2. Top with chilled sparkling wine.

3. Stir gently and enjoy!

Visit Our Wine Store Near You for the Best Wine Selection!

If you’re ready to create these delicious summer cocktails, head to Rollers Wine & Spirits to find the perfect wines for these recipes. Our staff can help you select the ideal wines to make your summer gatherings the best. Visit us in Hilton Head Island, SC, today!