Now, before the purists start clutching their pearls, hear me out. This isn't some bonkers idea I dreamed up after too many tastings (though I've certainly had those moments). The wine margarita—or "winerita" as some Americans charmingly call it—is a legitimate evolution of the classic cocktail that brings refreshing acidity, lovely fruit notes, and a touch more sophistication to your fiesta.
Think of it this way: if a traditional margarita is the fun-loving friend who shows up in flip-flops, the wine margarita is her slightly more elegant cousin who arrives in designer sandals but still knows how to have a proper laugh.
Step 1: Prep Your Glass Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass—margarita glass if you're feeling fancy, tumbler if you're keeping it casual. Dip into coarse salt (or my personal favorite: chile-lime salt for a bit of spice). This step is non-negotiable unless you're one of those anti-salt rebels, in which case, you do you.
Step 2: Shake It Up Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add your wine, tequila, lime juice, and agave nectar. Now here's the important bit: shake it like you mean it. We want this properly chilled and well-integrated. About 15-20 seconds of vigorous shaking should do the trick.
Step 3: Strain and Serve Strain into your prepared glass over fresh ice. Garnish with a lime wheel because we're not animals. Take a moment to admire your handiwork before diving in.
The wine you choose is absolutely crucial here. You want something crisp, zippy, and bone-dry—this is not the moment for your oaky Chardonnay or sweet Riesling. Think bright, think acidic, think refreshing.
Sauvignon Blanc ($12-18) The absolute MVP for wine margaritas. New Zealand Sauv Blanc brings grapefruit and lime notes that play beautifully with tequila. Brands like Kim Crawford or Oyster Bay are spot on for this.
Dry Rosé ($10-16) A Provence-style rosé adds a gorgeous blush color and subtle berry notes. Look for something crisp from the south of France or a Spanish rosado. La Vieille Ferme is brilliant and won't break the bank.
Pinot Grigio ($10-15) Italian Pinot Grigio keeps things light and mineral-driven. Ecco Domani or Santa Margherita (if you're feeling flush) work beautifully here.
Whatever you choose, make absolutely certain it's properly chilled. Room temperature wine in a margarita is a crime against cocktails, and I simply won't have it.
Ah, the eternal debate—like choosing between Paris and Bordeaux (though we all know the correct answer to that one).
On the rocks is my preferred method because it preserves the wine's character and keeps things sophisticated. Plus, it's faster to make and easier to sip slowly whilst actually tasting the components.
Frozen is absolutely acceptable when it's scorching hot and you need something slushy and refreshing immediately. Simply blend all ingredients with 2 cups of ice until smooth. It's more dessert-like, admittedly, but sometimes that's exactly what the moment calls for.
Mango Wine Margarita: Add 2 oz fresh mango purée and use a tropical white wine like Albariño. Absolutely divine with fish tacos.
Jalapeño Kick: Muddle a few jalapeño slices in the shaker before adding the other ingredients. Pairs brilliantly with the grassy notes in Sauvignon Blanc.
Watermelon Rosé Rita: Use rosé and add 2 oz fresh watermelon juice. Garnish with a watermelon wedge and fresh mint. It's Instagram gold, trust me.
Sparkling Version: Use 4 oz wine instead of 6, then top with 2 oz of Prosecco for a fizzy twist. Très festive!
The wine margarita is ridiculously versatile—it bridges the gap between wine-with-dinner and cocktail-party vibes. Here's what I'd pair it with:
So there you have it, my darlings—the wine margarita in all its cheeky, refreshing glory. It's proof that sometimes the best innovations come from unexpected pairings. Like running into an ex at a wine bar and realizing you're both dating the same sommelier (long story, involved a Barolo, don't ask).
Whether you're hosting a summer soirée, lounging by the pool, or simply treating yourself to something special on a Tuesday evening, this cocktail delivers sophistication with a playful twist. It's wine, but not as you know it—and that's precisely what makes it brilliant.
Now grab that wine, squeeze those limes, and get shaking, loves. Your summer cocktail awaits! Santé! 🍷🍋