📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Wine
Alcohol 6%
Calories 150 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 18g
Prep time 2 minutes
Imagine you’ve just discovered the coolest drink for your picnic or party, and it’s called Calimocho! This drink mixes the boldness of red wine with the bubbly sweetness of cola, creating a taste that’s both unique and familiar. We’ll take you on a journey through its history, the dance of flavors it brings to your palate, and how to make your own, so let’s get started together! ⬇️
History
The Calimocho has its roots in the Basque Country of Spain, where it was popularized as a festive drink. It’s a blend of young red wine and cola that became a hit at local celebrations. Its simplicity and affordability made it a beloved choice among the youth.
- The name Calimocho is believed to come from a playful twist on the Basque words for “Coke” and “bird.”
- It gained popularity in the 1970s after being served at a festival in Algorta, Spain.
- Calimocho has a twin called “Rioja Libre” in some parts of Spain, showing its playful variation in names.
The taste of a Calimocho?
A sip of Calimocho is like a surprise party for your taste buds—sweet, tangy, and slightly tannic. It’s a fun mix of the deep flavors of wine with the fizzy, caramel-like sweetness of cola.
I personally love drinking Calimochos because they’re incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day.
Interesting facts about Calimocho
- Despite its simplicity, Calimocho is part of a family of wine-based cocktails, like the Sangria.
- It has inspired similar drinks worldwide, such as the Korean “Poktanju” which combines beer and whiskey.
- In some countries, people add a twist of lemon or a few drops of grenadine to enhance its flavor.
Ingredients
- Red Wine: 4 oz (120ml)
- Cola: 4 oz (120ml)
- Ice Cubes: to fill the glass
A highball glass is ideal for serving a Calimocho, as its tall shape showcases the drink’s deep red hue and allows for plenty of ice. Alternatively, a mason jar can add a rustic touch and is perfect for casual gatherings.
Recipe. How to make Calimocho
- Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
- Pour 4 oz (120ml) of red wine over the ice.
- Top the wine with 4 oz (120ml) of cola and gently stir.
Calimocho can be a sweet drink, and while it’s certainly fun for the taste buds, it’s wise to enjoy it in moderation. A less sugary version can be made using diet cola or natural sweeteners, and always remember that red wine, when consumed sensibly, can have some health benefits.
Food Pairings
Certain foods can elevate the experience of sipping on a Calimocho, harmonizing with its sweet and tangy notes. Here are some perfect companions for your glass:
Tapas
The Calimocho’s Spanish origins make it an excellent match for a variety of tapas. Its refreshing character balances out the bold flavors of olives, cheeses, and cured meats.
Barbecue
The rich, smoky flavors of barbecued meats find a lively counterpart in the fruity and fizzy Calimocho.
Chocolate Desserts
For those with a sweet tooth, the slight bitterness of dark chocolate desserts complements the sweet and robust notes of the Calimocho.
I really enjoy the taste of Calimochos—the cool fizz and the fruity wine make it a perfect drink for chilling on the weekend.
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Bartender Advice
- Use a young and fruity red wine for a more vibrant Calimocho.
- Chill the cola before mixing to keep the Calimocho refreshing and bubbly.
- Adding a slice of lemon or orange can give your Calimocho a zesty twist.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Calimocho, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.
What you could change in Calimocho
- Swap the cola for a cherry soda to add a fruity punch to your Calimocho.
- Experiment with different types of wine, like a zesty Zinfandel, for a different flavor profile.
- Add a splash of brandy for an extra kick and a deeper complexity.
Calimocho Variations
Cherry Chimocho
- Ingredients: Replace cola with cherry soda.
- Recipe: Mix as usual and garnish with fresh cherries.
Zinful Calimocho
- Ingredients: Use Zinfandel instead of a standard red wine.
- Recipe: Combine with cola and serve with a sprig of mint.
Brandy Calimocho
- Ingredients: Add a shot of brandy to the classic recipe.
- Recipe: Stir gently and enjoy the deeper flavors.
For a non-alcoholic take, create a ‘Virgin Calimocho’ by mixing grape juice with a cola alternative like a cola-flavored soda. Serve over ice and enjoy the same great taste without the alcohol.
Q&A
Can Calimocho be considered a fine cocktail?
While it’s more of a casual, fun drink, the Calimocho has earned its place in the cocktail world through its sheer popularity and refreshing taste. It’s a laid-back beverage that’s not about the frills but all about the flavor.
Is it better to use expensive wine for Calimocho?
Not necessarily; a Calimocho shines with a young, table wine that’s more about the fruity notes than the complexity that comes with aged wines. Save your fine wines for savoring on their own, and enjoy the Calimocho with something more modest.
Can I make Calimocho in large batches for a party?
Absolutely! It’s perfect for parties. Mix equal parts wine and cola in a large pitcher with lots of ice, and let your guests help themselves.
Are there any seasonal variations of Calimocho?
Yes, for summer, try adding slices of citrus or berries; for a winter twist, mix in a bit of cinnamon or star anise to warm things up.
How can I make my Calimocho more visually appealing?
Garnish! A slice of orange, lemon, or a few berries can add a pop of color and a hint of extra flavor to your drink.
Is there a non-soda alternative for making Calimocho?
For those avoiding soda, try a carbonated water with a splash of natural cola flavor or a dark fruit syrup to mimic the original’s sweetness without the soda.
