As a bartender, I've always been fascinated by the wide variety of flavors that exist in the world of cocktails. From sweet and fruity to bitter and complex, there's a drink out there for everyone.
One flavor that has always caught my attention is grape. There's something about the juicy, tangy taste of fresh grapes that just screams summer to me.
So, I decided to do some research and explore the best grape-flavored drinks out there.
What I found was a treasure trove of delicious recipes that are perfect for any occasion, from a lazy afternoon by the pool to a fancy night out with friends.
What I love about grape-flavored cocktails is their versatility. They work equally well with light, refreshing drinks like spritzers and sangrias, as well as with richer, more complex cocktails like martinis and sours.
Plus, there are so many different ways to incorporate grape into a drink – from using fresh grapes as a garnish to infusing grape juice into the base spirit.
In this post, I'll be sharing some of my favorite grape-flavored cocktail recipes, along with tips on how to make them perfectly every time.
Whether you're a grape lover looking to try something new or a bartender searching for inspiration, I hope you'll find something here that catches your eye (and your taste buds). So let's dive in and explore the wonderful world of grape cocktails!
1. Concord Grape Moscow Mule
The Concord Grape Moscow Mule is a refreshing twist on the classic Moscow Mule cocktail. This grape version of the cocktail is made with fresh concord grapes, which are known for their deep purple color and tart flavor. The grapes are used to create a simple syrup that is added to the traditional ingredients of vodka, ginger beer, and lime.
The result is a sweet and tart cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a warm summer day. The Concord Grape Moscow Mule is a great option for those looking to try a grape-flavored cocktail that is not commonly found on cocktail menus.
2. Rosemary and Roasted Grape Wine Cocktail
The Rosemary and Roasted Grape Wine Cocktail is a unique and refreshing wine cocktail that features the flavors of jammy roasted grapes, woodsy rosemary, and bright fresh lemon with the effervescent bubbles of sparkling wine.
It's easy to make and utilizes ingredients you may already have on hand, making it a great way to explore the world of wine cocktails at home.
3. White Grape Cosmo Cocktail
The White Grape Cosmo Cocktail is a refreshing and perfectly balanced cocktail that is sure to please anyone who enjoys a good cosmo. Made with just three simple ingredients, this cocktail is easy to mix and offers just the right amount of sweetness without being too overpowering.
The addition of frozen grapes not only makes for a beautiful presentation, but also adds a fun and tasty twist to the classic cosmo. If you're looking for a grape-flavored cocktail that is both delicious and easy to make, the White Grape Cosmo Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
4. Non-Alcoholic Sangria
Looking for a delicious and festive mocktail recipe that everyone can enjoy during holiday parties? Look no further than the Non-Alcoholic Sangria! This grape-flavored cocktail is made with sparkling red grape juice, brewed tea, cranberry juice, sliced oranges, fresh cranberries, and cinnamon sticks, creating a beautiful and delicious mocktail that is perfect for the holiday season.
The addition of brewed tea creates a similar effect to the tannins found in red wine, giving this mocktail a depth of flavor that is sure to impress. Whether you're looking for a non-alcoholic option or simply want to switch up your usual cocktail routine, the Non-Alcoholic Sangria is a must-try recipe this holiday season.
5. Instant Pot Grape Jolly Rancher Moonshine
The Instant Pot Grape Jolly Rancher Moonshine is a sweet and smooth cocktail with a kick. It's made with Everclear, which gives it a bold and rich alcohol taste that pairs perfectly with the sweet grape mixture.
You can adjust the amount of alcohol to your liking, making it a great option for parties or gatherings. It's a fun and unique cocktail that is sure to impress your guests.
6. The Recap
Looking for a unique way to celebrate the end of the year and the start of a new one? Look no further than "The Recap" cocktail, featuring the rich and complex flavors of Port wine. This cocktail combines Fonseca BIN 27 Port with Italian amaro, mint simple syrup, and fresh lemon juice, topped off with a spritz of club soda for a bubbly finish.
The result is a cocktail that feels both fresh and aged, perfect for toasting to the future while remembering the past. If you're a fan of grape-flavored cocktails, "The Recap" is definitely worth a try.
7. Crimson Cocktail
The Crimson Cocktail is a unique and sweet gin-based cocktail that is perfect for those who love grape flavors. This cocktail features a combination of grenadine and port, which gives it a distinct sweetness that can be adjusted to your liking. The layering effect of the drink is visually stunning and can be achieved with ease.
The gin used in the recipe shines through, so it's important to choose a brand that you enjoy. The flavor profile of the Crimson Cocktail is a delightful blend of citrus, herbs, and sweet cherry and grape notes. If you're looking for a grape-flavored cocktail that is both visually stunning and delicious, the Crimson Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
8. French Prince
The "French Prince" is a grape-flavored cocktail that combines Canadian whisky, verjus, honey, bitters, cinnamon, honey crisp apples, and dried apricots. The cocktail is inspired by the French press concept, which the bartender discovered at the Aviary Bar in Chicago. The use of Canadian whisky, particularly White Owl, adds a unique twist to the cocktail.
The addition of honey and grape notes from the verjus balances out the flavors, while the bitters and cinnamon add a touch of spice. The honey crisp apples and dried apricots add a fruity and sweet finish to the cocktail. Overall, the "French Prince" is a sophisticated and approachable cocktail that is perfect for those who want to level up their cocktail game at home.
9. The Grimace Cocktail
The Grimace Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves grape-flavored drinks with a kick. This purple-hued cocktail is made with vodka, blue curacao, grenadine, and grape-flavored Powerade, and it packs a punch that will leave you feeling refreshed and satisfied.
The drink is named after the McDonald's character Grimace, but don't let that fool you – this is a serious cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a drink to enjoy at a golf course or a party, The Grimace Cocktail is sure to impress. So why not give it a try and see for yourself why this grape-flavored cocktail is one of the best around?
10. Grape Limeade Vodka Jell-O Shots
The Grape Limeade Vodka Jell-O Shots are a unique and refreshing grape-flavored cocktail made with Crush Grape flavored gelatin, vodka, and fresh limeade.
Created for a fundraising effort, they have become a yearly tradition at the Peafest hockey tournament, with 400 shots made each year. The combination of grape and limeade, with a kick of vodka, is sure to please any palate.
