The drink Kalimotxo (sometimes spelled as it sounds, Calimocho). If you’ve never tried red wine and Coke, today you’re in for a treat. I love easy cocktail recipes and this one is unique!
This refreshing cocktail recipe originated in Spain to save wine that was starting to spoil. This is a great recipe to try when you have an open bottle that’s been sitting around too long. You can use any inexpensive red wine for this recipe, including the bottle you just used for your dinner recipe.
Related: Mojito, Appletini, Screwdriver Drink, Ranch water, Green tea shot
Ingredients
- Red wine – Choose any inexpensive red wine, something you would cook with.
- Coke – I used regular Coca-Cola soda. Many people swear by Mexican Coke because it’s made with cane sugar instead of high fructose corn syrup.
- Orange and mint – Two choices for an optional garnish. I also like a slice of lemon.
This simple cocktail is best served in a highball glass filled with ice and a straw.
Directions
Fill a highball glass with ice.
Mix equal parts red wine and Coke.
Optional toppings include orange slices and mint leaves.
What does a Kalimotxo taste like?
Before trying red wine and Coca-Cola, I was skeptical. Of course, I’ve often enjoyed wine with rum (I love a Cube Libre), so I’m not sure why I was so nervous about this combination. After trying it, I have to say that the flavors combine so well. It’s unique and refreshing. The rich red wine mixed with the sweetness of the cola is so tasty. It is a close cousin of sangria.
Tips for making
- Add a pinch of bitters to your drink if you have some on hand.
- I normally use leftover wine for this recipe, but if you’re buying a new bottle, the best option is a Spanish red wine also called Rioja.
- Don’t knock it until you try it! This recipe is very good and although it is not yet common in the United States, maybe it should be?
History
This drink originated in the Spanish Basque Country in the 1920s. The story is that festival organizers added cola to cases of red wine that had gone bad to make them palatable again. Necessity is the mother of invention! Since then, this drink has been a popular choice at happy hours throughout Europe.
Serving suggestions/goes great with
Other recipes you might like:
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
How do you pronounce Kalimotxo?
We pronounce it cal-ee-MO-cho.
Who drinks a Kalimotxo?
This drink originated in Spain and has now spread throughout the world. It is most popular in Europe and is gaining popularity elsewhere.
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Instructions
-
Fill a highball glass with ice.
-
Mix equal parts red wine and Coke.
-
Optional toppings include orange slices and mint leaves.
Remarks
- Add a pinch of bitters to your drink if you have some on hand.
- I normally use leftover wine for this recipe, but if you’re buying a new bottle, the best option is a Spanish red wine also called Rioja.
- Don’t knock it until you try it! This recipe is very good and although it is not yet common in the United States, maybe it should be?
Nutrition
Nutritional intake
Kalimotxo (Calimocho)
Amount per serving
% Daily Value*
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Note: Nutrition is calculated automatically using Spoonacular, for your convenience. Where applicable, we recommend using your own nutritional calculations.
