Queen Charlotte
A regal and sweet wine cooler featuring the rich depth of red wine and the fruity sweetness of grenadine, lengthened with sparkling lemon-lime soda. This two-toned highball is perfect for sipping on warm afternoons.
What it tastes like
This drink smells of dark berries and citrus zest. The palate is dominated by pomegranate sugar and grape tannins, resulting in a fizzy, light mouthfeel. It finishes with a clean, soda-driven sweetness.
Flavour profile
Ingredients
- Red Wine2 oz
- Grenadine1 oz
- Lemon-Lime Soda4 oz
Preparation
- 1
Fill a Collins glass completely with fresh ice cubes.
- 2
Pour the red wine and grenadine over the ice.
- 3
Top off the glass with lemon-lime soda.
- 4
Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
- 5
Serve immediately.
Substitutions
- Red WineDry Rosé — This makes the drink lighter and introduces floral notes instead of dark fruit.
- GrenadineRaspberry Syrup — This adds a sharper fruit tartness compared to the deep sweetness of pomegranate.
- Lemon-Lime SodaGinger Ale — This swap provides a mild ginger spice and an earthier finish.
- Lemon-Lime SodaSoda Water — Using unflavoured carbonated water significantly reduces the sugar content and highlights the wine's acidity.
Variations
Spiced Charlotte
Add two dashes of aromatic bitters to introduce woodsy notes and temper the high sugar level.
Charlotte Royale
Replace the lemon-lime soda with dry sparkling wine for a higher alcohol content and a crisp, dry finish.