To make a Red Queen cocktail, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 ounces of red wine: Choose a bold and fruity red wine that will complement the other flavors in the cocktail. I personally recommend a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot for this drink. The wine will provide a rich and complex base for the cocktail.
– 1 ounce of bourbon: Select a high-quality bourbon that has a smooth and slightly sweet flavor profile. The bourbon will add depth and a touch of smokiness to the cocktail. I find that the combination of wine and bourbon creates a unique and intriguing flavor profile.
– 1/2 ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice: The lemon juice adds a refreshing citrusy note to the cocktail, balancing out the richness of the wine and bourbon. It also brings a touch of acidity that helps to brighten the flavors of the drink.
– 1/2 ounce of simple syrup: Simple syrup is a common ingredient in cocktails as it provides sweetness without altering the flavor profile too much. It is made by dissolving equal parts of sugar and water. The simple syrup will help to balance the flavors in the drink and add a touch of sweetness.
– 1/4 ounce of amaro: Amaro is an herbal liqueur with a bitter and slightly sweet taste. It adds complexity and depth to the cocktail, enhancing the overall flavor profile. There are many different types of amaro available, so feel free to experiment and find one that you enjoy.
– Ice: You will need ice to shake the cocktail and to serve it over crushed ice. The ice helps to chill the drink and dilute it slightly, creating a more balanced and enjoyable experience.
– Garnish: For the garnish, I recommend using lemon wheels, fresh thyme, sage, and rosemary. These aromatic herbs will add a beautiful fragrance to the cocktail and enhance the visual appeal. Plus, they provide a subtle hint of herbal notes that complement the flavors of the drink.
Now that you have all the ingredients, it's time to prepare the Red Queen cocktail.
1. Combine the red wine, bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and amaro in a cocktail shaker. Make sure to measure each ingredient accurately to achieve a well-balanced cocktail.
2. Add ice to the cocktail shaker and give it a good shake. This will help to chill the drink and mix all the flavors together.
3. Strain the cocktail over crushed ice into a tall Collins glass. The crushed ice will keep the drink cold and add a nice texture to the cocktail.
4. Garnish the cocktail with lemon wheels, fresh thyme, sage, and rosemary. Arrange them neatly on top of the drink to create an appealing presentation.
Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy your homemade Red Queen cocktail. The combination of red wine, bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and amaro creates a complex and well-balanced drink that is perfect for sipping on a cozy evening or serving at a gathering with friends. Cheers!