Summer has finally arrived, and with it comes the perfect excuse to stay cool, relax, and indulge in some refreshing drinks. What better way to beat the heat than with a fruity wine that’s as easy to make as it is delicious? In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering fruit wine recipes that are sure to quench your thirst and satisfy your sweet tooth.
From classic combinations like strawberry basil and peach mango, to more unique pairings like blueberry lavender and pineapple coconut, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re looking for a light and crisp sipper or a rich and fruity indulgence, these fruit wine recipes have got you covered.
Strawberry Basil Wine
This recipe combines the sweetness of strawberries with the brightness of basil to create a unique and refreshing wine perfect for warm weather gatherings. With its subtle herbal notes and fruity undertones, this wine is sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle white wine (Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio work well)
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Chill the wine in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
2. In a large pitcher or jug, combine the chilled wine, strawberry slices, and chopped basil leaves.
3. Stir gently to combine and let it infuse for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Just before serving, stir in the honey until dissolved.
5. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Strawberry Basil Wine over the ice.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None, as this is a chilled wine recipe.
Peach Mango Wine
Elevate your wine game with this unique and refreshing peach mango wine recipe! This sweet and tangy concoction is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a special treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of white wine (Chardonnay or Riesling work well)
– 1 ripe peach, pureed
– 1/2 cup mango puree
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon citric acid (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher or jug, combine the white wine and peach puree.
2. Stir in the mango puree until well combined.
3. Add the honey and citric acid (if using) to the mixture and stir until dissolved.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with sliced peaches or a sprig of mint if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 10-15 minutes
– Chilling time: 30 minutes
Blueberry Lavender Wine
Combine the sweetness of blueberries with the subtle charm of lavender to create a unique and refreshing wine perfect for sipping on a warm evening. This recipe yields a delightful, slightly sweet wine with hints of floral undertones.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 3 lbs mixed blueberries (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) red wine yeast (e.g., Lalvin K1-V1116)
– 1 tablespoon lavender syrup (or 1 teaspoon dried lavender buds)
– 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. Combine water and blueberries in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for 30 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher or jug.
5. Add yeast and lavender syrup (or dried lavender). Stir gently to combine.
6. Cover and let ferment at room temperature (68-72°F) for 7-10 days, or until bubbles cease to form on the surface.
7. Rack the wine by transferring it to another container, leaving behind any sediment.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (steeping time)
Pineapple Coconut Wine
Escape to a tropical paradise with this sweet and tangy wine, infused with the flavors of pineapple and coconut. This refreshing cocktail is perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you need a taste of sunshine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup coconut water
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
– Ice cubes
– Fresh pineapple wedges and toasted coconut flakes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pineapple juice, coconut water, and white wine.
2. Add simple syrup and stir until dissolved.
3. Squeeze in lemon zest and stir gently.
4. Chill mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold, garnished with fresh pineapple wedges and toasted coconut flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is ready to serve immediately.
Blackberry Vanilla Wine
Transform ordinary wine into a sweet and fruity masterpiece with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon red or white wine (any type)
– 1 cup blackberries, fresh or frozen
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Rinse the blackberries and remove any stems or leaves.
2. Combine the blackberries and sugar in a large saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves (about 5 minutes).
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the blackberries have broken down and the mixture has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into the wine. Discard solids.
6. Stir well to combine.
7. Store the wine at room temperature for 2-3 days, allowing the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (plus 2-3 days for flavor melding)
Enjoy your Blackberry Vanilla Wine!
Raspberry Rose Wine
Combine the sweetness of raspberries with the elegance of rose wine for a unique and delicious beverage. This recipe is perfect for a romantic evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh raspberries
– 1 bottle dry rose wine (750ml)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 lemon, juiced
– 1/4 cup water
– Fresh raspberries and edible flowers for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the fresh raspberries and sugar. Let it sit at room temperature for 2 hours to allow the berries to release their juice.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into another pitcher, pressing on the solids to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the solids.
3. Add the rose wine, lemon juice, and water to the raspberry juice. Stir well to combine.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
5. Serve the Raspberry Rose Wine over ice in a glass and garnish with fresh raspberries and edible flowers, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Apple Cinnamon Wine
Experience the warm flavors of fall with this delicious homemade Apple Cinnamon Wine. Perfect for sipping on a chilly evening or serving at your next gathering, this recipe combines the sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry wine yeast
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine apple cider, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
3. Add yeast mixture (reconstituted with 1/4 cup warm water) and lemon juice. Stir gently.
4. Transfer the mixture to a sanitized fermentation vessel or food-grade plastic bucket.
5. Allow the wine to ferment for 6-8 weeks, monitoring pH levels and specific gravity as needed.
6. Once fermentation is complete (gravity stabilizes), rack the wine into a secondary vessel and age for at least 3 months before bottling.
Cooking Time: 6-8 weeks for primary fermentation, followed by at least 3 months of aging.
Cherry Almond Wine
Elevate your wine game with this refreshing Cherry Almond Wine recipe. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of white wine (Pinot Grigio or Riesling work well)
– 1 cup cherries, pitted and chopped
– 1/4 cup almonds, sliced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 lemon slice
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, cherries, and almonds.
2. Let it infuse for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator to allow flavors to meld together.
3. Just before serving, stir in the honey until dissolved.
4. Garnish with a lemon slice and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is all about infusion, not cooking.
Enjoy your delicious Cherry Almond Wine!
Watermelon Mint Wine
Beat the heat with this unique and refreshing wine that combines the sweetness of watermelon with the cooling flavor of mint. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle white wine (dry)
– 1 cup cubed seedless watermelon
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the white wine and cubed watermelon.
2. Add the fresh mint leaves to the pitcher and muddle (gently press) them with a spoon to release their oils and flavor.
3. Stir in the honey until dissolved.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, add sliced lemon to the pitcher.
6. Serve the Watermelon Mint Wine chilled, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Plum Cardamom Wine
Elevate your wine game with this unique and aromatic Plum Cardamom Wine recipe, perfect for the holiday season or as a special treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) plums, chopped
– 2 cups (475ml) water
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60g) cardamom pods, crushed
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1 packet (0.25 oz or 7g) wine yeast (Red Star Premier Cuvee or Lalvin K1-V1116)
– 1 campden tablet (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine plums, water, sugar, and crushed cardamom in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and let steep for 24 hours.
3. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a sanitized fermentation vessel. Discard solids.
4. Add lemon slices and wine yeast. Stir gently to combine.
5. Cover and ferment at room temperature (68°F – 72°F or 20°C – 22°C) for 7-10 days, or until bubbles form on the surface.
6. Rack the wine, leaving sediment behind. Repeat every 2 months for a total of 3-4 racking cycles.
Cooking Time: 24 hours (steeping), 7-10 days (fermentation)
Citrus Ginger Wine
Elevate your wine game with this refreshing and zesty Citrus Ginger Wine recipe! This fruity and spicy blend is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 3 cups orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 2 cups lemon juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1 cup honey
– 1/4 cup fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly
– 1 packet (0.25 oz) wine yeast (Champagne yeast or Monastery yeast work well)
– 1 tablespoon citric acid powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water, orange juice, lemon juice, and honey. Heat until the honey dissolves.
2. Add sliced ginger to the mixture and remove from heat.
3. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature (around 70°F).
4. Pitch the yeast by rehydrating it in a small amount of warm water, then adding it to the cooled wine mixture.
5. Transfer the mixture to a food-grade container or carboy, leaving about 1 inch at the top.
6. Seal the container and store in a dark place for 2-3 weeks, allowing fermentation to occur.
7. Strain the wine and transfer it to glass bottles. Store in a cool, dark place for at least 6 months before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 weeks (fermentation), 6+ months (aging)
Pear Honey Wine
Transform the flavors of autumn into a delicious homemade wine with this simple recipe featuring pears and honey as main ingredients. Perfect for sipping on a chilly evening or serving at your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou), sliced
– 1 cup honey
– 1 gallon water
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon acid blend
– 1/2 teaspoon pectic enzyme
Instructions:
1. Combine pear slices, honey, and water in a large pot. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the honey dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and add yeast, lemon juice, acid blend, and pectic enzyme. Stir gently to combine.
3. Cover the pot and let it sit at room temperature for 24 hours to allow fermentation to begin.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a sanitized wine barrel or glass carboy. Discard the solids.
5. Allow the wine to ferment for 6-8 weeks, or until bubbles stop forming and the sediment settles at the bottom.
6. Rack (transfer) the wine to another container, leaving sediment behind. Repeat every 2-3 months for 6-12 months.
Cooking Time: 24 hours (initial fermentation), 6-8 weeks (total fermentation time)
Kiwi Lime Wine
This unique wine recipe combines the sweetness of kiwis with the tanginess of lime, creating a refreshing and fruity drink perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– 1 cup kiwi puree
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet (0.25 oz) active dry wine yeast
– 1 gallon water
– Optional: sparkling water or club soda for serving
Instructions:
1. Combine mixed berries, kiwi puree, and lime juice in a large pot.
2. Add sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Add wine yeast and stir gently.
6. Transfer mixture to a sanitized fermentation vessel (food-grade plastic bucket or glass carboy).
7. Top with water, leaving about an inch at the top.
8. Cover and allow to ferment at room temperature for 2-3 days.
9. Strain and serve chilled, garnished with lime wedges and kiwi slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (simmering) + 2-3 days (fermentation)
Apricot Chamomile Wine
This wine recipe combines the sweet flavor of apricots with the calming properties of chamomile, creating a unique and refreshing drink perfect for relaxing on a warm evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1 pound granulated sugar
– 2 pounds fresh or dried apricots, chopped
– 1/4 cup dried chamomile flowers
– 1 packet wine yeast (Champagne or White Wine)
– 1 tablespoon acid blend (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the gallon of water to a boil and add the sugar, stirring until dissolved.
2. Add the chopped apricots and dried chamomile flowers to the boiling mixture.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for 24 hours.
4. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a large pot or fermenter.
5. Pitch the wine yeast and add acid blend if using.
6. Ferment at 68°F (20°C) for 7-10 days, or until fermentation is complete.
7. Bottle and condition for at least 3 months before serving.
Cooking Time: 24 hours + fermentation time (7-10 days)
Grapefruit Thyme Wine
Combine the brightness of grapefruit with the earthiness of thyme to create a unique and delightful wine perfect for warm weather gatherings. This recipe is ideal for those looking for a lighter, citrusy alternative to traditional wines.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle white wine (dry)
– 1 cup grapefruit juice
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
– 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. Combine the white wine, grapefruit juice, sugar, and water in a large pitcher.
2. Add the fresh thyme leaves and stir to combine.
3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, add the sliced lemon to the pitcher.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed! This wine is a refreshing, no-cook recipe perfect for hot summer days.
Banana Nutmeg Wine
Transform ordinary bananas into a sweet and aromatic wine, infused with the warmth of nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 tsp active dry yeast
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the bananas, water, and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Add yeast and stir gently.
3. Cover the pot with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and let ferment in a warm place (around 75°F) for 24-48 hours.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl, pressing on solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
5. Discard the solids and add nutmeg and lemon juice. Stir well.
6. Pour the wine into clean glass bottles, leaving about 1 inch headspace. Store in a cool place (around 55°F) for at least 2 weeks before serving.
Cooking Time: 24-48 hours + 2 weeks aging
Fig Clove Wine
Combine the warmth of cloves with the natural sweetness of figs to create a unique and aromatic wine perfect for sipping on its own or pairing with desserts.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of dry white wine (Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio work well)
– 1 cup of fig jam
– 2 whole cloves, ground into a fine powder
– 1 tablespoon of honey
Instructions:
1. Open the bottle of white wine and pour it into a large bowl.
2. Add the fig jam, ground cloves, and honey to the wine. Stir until the jam is fully dissolved.
3. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the wine through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a new container. Discard the solids.
5. Store the Fig Clove Wine in the refrigerator and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold-weather recipe.
Pomegranate Rosemary Wine
This refreshing wine recipe combines the tartness of pomegranate with the earthy flavor of rosemary, perfect for sipping on a warm evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of white wine (750ml)
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. Chill the white wine in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a large pitcher, combine pomegranate juice and honey. Stir until the honey is dissolved.
3. Add the chilled white wine to the pitcher and stir gently.
4. Add the chopped rosemary and sliced lemon to the pitcher. Let it infuse in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Serve the Pomegranate Rosemary Wine over ice with a sprig of rosemary, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Serves: 4-6 people
Elderflower Lemon Wine
This refreshing Elderflower Lemon Wine recipe combines the delicate flavors of elderflowers with the brightness of lemon and the crispness of wine, perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup dried elderflowers (or 1/2 cup fresh elderflowers)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) wine yeast (Champagne or White Wine)
– 1/4 teaspoon acid blend
– 1/4 teaspoon pectic enzyme
– 6-8 cups water (for dilution)
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar and 2 cups of water in a pot, stirring until dissolved.
2. Add dried elderflowers (or fresh elderflowers), lemon juice, wine yeast, acid blend, and pectic enzyme. Stir to combine.
3. Bring mixture to boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Transfer mixture to a sanitized glass carboy or food-grade plastic container.
6. Cover and allow fermentation to complete (7-14 days).
7. Once fermentation is complete, dilute with water to desired strength.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus fermentation time)
Cranberry Orange Wine
Combine the flavors of cranberries, orange zest, and wine to create a unique and delicious drink perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup white wine (such as Riesling or Pinot Grigio)
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and 1/4 cup of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and stir in orange juice, white wine, and grated orange zest. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher or jug. Discard the solids.
4. Chill the cranberry mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
5. Serve over ice with a splash of sparkling water, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to beat the heat with these refreshing fruit wine recipes perfect for summer! From classic combinations like Strawberry Basil and Peach Mango, to unique pairings like Blueberry Lavender and Pineapple Coconut, there’s something for every palate. Try Blackberry Vanilla for a sweet treat or Raspberry Rose for a romantic twist. You’ll also find seasonal favorites like Apple Cinnamon and Cherry Almond, as well as refreshing drinks like Watermelon Mint and Plum Cardamom. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or just looking for a quick pick-me-up, these fruit wines are sure to please.
