Red Wine Float

The Red Wine Float is one of those cocktails that blurs the line between drink and dessert in the best possible way. The first time I tried it, I was not sure what to expect. Wine and ice cream sounded bold, maybe even a little strange. One sip later, it all made sense. The richness of dark chocolate, the fruit notes from red wine, and the light lift from seltzer came together in a way that felt fun and surprisingly balanced.

It does not rely on fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Instead, it uses familiar flavors in a fresh format that feels playful without being too much. It is the kind of drink that sparks conversation as soon as it hits the table. It fits right in as an after-dinner drink, a casual treat during a gathering, or a fun option for wine lovers looking to try something different.

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Why You Will Love This

The Red Wine Float offers a different kind of cocktail experience. It is not rushed, and it is meant to be enjoyed slowly as the flavors change with each sip.

• Combines dessert and cocktails in one glass
• Easy to make with minimal ingredients
• Rich flavors balanced by light bubbles
• Great conversation starter
• Perfect for wine lovers who want something new
• Works well as an after dinner drink

Once you serve it, people tend to pause, take a sip, and smile. That reaction alone makes it a keeper.

Ingredients

This cocktail works because each ingredient brings something distinct to the glass. Together, they create layers of flavor and texture that evolve as the ice cream melts.

• 0.5 oz chocolate sauce for lining the glass
• 1 large scoop dark chocolate raspberry ice cream
• 3 oz red wine
• 2 oz seltzer

The chocolate sauce adds richness and visual appeal. Dark chocolate raspberry ice cream brings creaminess and a subtle fruit note that pairs naturally with red wine. Choosing the right red wine matters. A smooth, fruit-forward option works best. Seltzer lightens the drink and keeps it from feeling heavy. As the ice cream melts, the drink changes, which is part of the fun.

Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions

Since this cocktail relies on wine rather than spirits, choosing the right bottle helps shape the final flavor.

• Merlot for a smooth and mellow profile
• Pinot Noir for lighter body and bright fruit notes
• Zinfandel for a bolder fruit-forward option
• Alcohol-free red wine for a no-alcohol version
• Chocolate soda in place of seltzer for extra richness

Avoid very tannic or dry wines, since they can clash with the sweetness of the ice cream. A wine you enjoy sipping on its own usually works well here.

Equipment and Glassware

You do not need much equipment to make this cocktail, which makes it easy to pull together on short notice.

• Bar Spoon
• Hurricane Glass
• Ice cream scoop

A chilled hurricane glass works best because it gives enough room for the ice cream and liquid without spilling. Clear glass also shows off the layers, which adds to the presentation.

How to Make It

This cocktail is built directly in the glass, which keeps things simple and allows the layers to shine.

1. Drizzle chocolate sauce along the inside of a chilled hurricane glass.
2. Add one large scoop of dark chocolate raspberry ice cream to the glass.
3. Pour in red wine gently to avoid overflow.
4. Top with seltzer and serve immediately.

Once served, the drink is meant to be enjoyed right away so you can experience the contrast between cold ice cream and crisp bubbles.

Pro Tips

These tips help make sure your Red Wine Float looks good and tastes balanced from the first sip to the last.

• Chill the glass ahead of time
• Use high-quality ice cream for better flavor
• Pour the wine slowly to control foam
• Add seltzer gently to keep bubbles intact
• Serve immediately for best texture
• Choose a wine you already enjoy
• Drizzle chocolate evenly for visual appeal

Once you get comfortable with the base version, small adjustments can help you tailor it to your taste.

Variations

The Red Wine Float is flexible and easy to customize based on what you have or the mood you want.

• Use vanilla ice cream for a lighter flavor
• Swap raspberry ice cream for cherry or blackberry
• Add a splash of cherry soda instead of seltzer
• Use chocolate ice cream for a deeper cocoa note
• Make it alcohol free using non-alcoholic wine

Each variation keeps the dessert cocktail feel while offering a new flavor direction.

When to Serve and Pairings

This cocktail works best when served as a treat rather than a main drink. It shines at the end of a meal or during relaxed gatherings.

Serve it after dinner, at wine nights, casual parties, or small get-togethers where you want something memorable. It also works well for holidays or themed events where dessert cocktails fit the mood.

• Chocolate desserts
• Berry tarts or pies
• Light cookies
• Cheese boards with mild cheeses

Keeping pairings simple allows the drink to remain the focus.

Storage and Serving Notes

This cocktail is meant to be made and served immediately. It does not store well due to the ice cream and carbonation.

Prepare all ingredients ahead of time and assemble just before serving. Chilling the glasses and wine beforehand helps everything come together smoothly.

FAQs

Does this cocktail taste very sweet?
It is sweet, but the wine and seltzer help balance the richness.

Can I use any red wine?
Fruit-forward wines work best. Avoid very dry or tannic options.

Is this more of a drink or a dessert?
It sits comfortably between both, which is part of its appeal.

Can I make this for a group?
It is best made individually for presentation and texture.

What if I do not have raspberry ice cream?
Chocolate or vanilla ice cream both work well.

More Cocktails to Try

• Red Sky Sour
• Sunset Sangria
• Cranberry Pineapple Sangria
• Red Moon Over Manhattan
• Purple Royale