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Red wine in hot chocolate? If that combo sounds extravagant and indulgent, that’s because it absolutely is—and you’re missing out if you haven’t tried it yet. This surprising blend of rich, velvety cocoa and bold red wine creates a dessert drink that’s luxurious, warming, and a little mischievous. Perfect for cozy nights or impressing your friends, red wine hot chocolate is a winter treat with a boozy twist that’s sure to elevate your hot chocolate game.
The Secret to the Perfect Pairing
To create this magical drink, you’ll need the right kind of red wine. Think of wines you’d enjoy pairing with chocolate—full-bodied options with fruity notes that complement the sweetness and creaminess of cocoa. Zinfandel, Malbec, and Syrah are excellent choices, as they boast tasting notes of plum, cherry, berries, and even subtle chocolate undertones. These juicy, rich reds can stand up to the decadent flavors of hot chocolate without overwhelming it.
One thing to avoid? Tannic wines like Cabernet Sauvignon. Tannins, a naturally bitter compound found in red wine, share some similarities with the bitterness of chocolate. Too much tannin can amplify the bitterness and throw off the balance of the drink. Stick to softer, fruit-forward reds, and you’re golden.
How to Make It
Making red wine hot chocolate is blissfully simple and endlessly customizable. Here’s how to do it:
Start with the Basics: Combine your preferred hot chocolate ingredients—milk, cream, high-quality chocolate, and sugar—over low heat. Adjust the ratios to your liking, but a mix of milk and cream creates the richest result.
Add the Wine: Once your hot chocolate is smooth and steaming, pour in your red wine. Use the wine to replace some of the liquid in your recipe, or add it as an extra layer. For a deeper cocoa flavor, consider cutting the dairy in half. Add the wine toward the end of the heating process to preserve its delicate aromas.
Experiment with Flavors: Feeling adventurous? Use mulled wine as your base for an extra punch of spice, or sprinkle in cinnamon, anise, or nutmeg to highlight the warm, spiced tones in your wine.
Serve and Enjoy: Stir well, pour into your favorite mug, and top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a finishing touch.
Why It Works
The combination of red wine and hot chocolate is all about balance. The richness of the chocolate, sweetened by sugar and mellowed with milk, contrasts beautifully with the wine’s fruity brightness. The result is a drink that’s equal parts cozy and indulgent—a dessert in a mug that feels just a little fancy.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for something sweet, skip the traditional hot chocolate and try spiking it with a splash of red wine. It’s bold, it’s decadent, and it might just become your go-to winter treat. Cheers to the unexpected!