Wine perversions

It's not a mix-up—it's a cocktail

By Tyler Balliet

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The entire point of a wine cocktail is to make less favorable (read: cheap as hell) wine easy to drink. Soda, juice or even ice cubes will overpower the subtle flavors that you pay extra for with a nice bottle of wine. Therefore, shelve the fine Chardonnay, dig through your couch for loose change and grab a jug of inexpensive plonk—it's time to mix.

Kir

The most basic of the wine cocktails, this drink is named after the hero Félix Kir. He was the mayor of Dijon, France, and an active participant in the French Resistance during World War II. After the war, he popularized this drink by offering it at receptions with international folks. The drink is simply a dollop of crème de cassis—a black currant liquor from Dijon—topped off with a basic Burgundy white wine called Aligoté. This drink can be made with any white wine, but we suggest using a light and crisp one like Chablis or even Sauvignon Blanc. Also check out a Kir Royale, which is made with Champagne rather than still wine. Try a version of this drink, the Beehive Royale ($10.50), at The Beehive [541 Tremont St., South End, Boston. 617.423.0069. beehiveboston.com].

Bellini

This drink was invented by the owner and bartender of Harry's Bar in Venice, Italy, 50 years ago. The original Bellini is made with three parts Prosecco, the Italian sparkling wine, and one part white peach purée. This is a perfect spring or summer sipper, but if you can't find white peach purée, fret not. A simple fix is to use peach liquor or even peach schnapps if you're in a jam. Try the Redheaded Stepchild ($7.50) at The Savant Project [1625 Tremont St., Mission Hill, Boston. 617.566.5958. thesavantproject.com].

French 75

This drink was named after the powerful French 75mm howitzer artillery gun used in World War I, because of the kick. Made with Champagne, lemon juice, sugar and a solid hit of gin or cognac—there is some discrepancy as to the original recipe—this cocktail is no sissy. The drink was originally created by World War I flying ace Raoul Lufbery, but was later popularized at New York City's Stork Club. Eastern Standard [528 Comm. Ave., Hotel Commonwealth, Kenmore Sq., Boston. 617.532.9100. easternstandardboston.com] makes a mean French 75 ($10).

Brutal Hammer

This is possibly the most disastrous wine cocktail in existence. We use the descriptor "cocktail" in the loosest sense of the word, as the recipe consists of filling a pint glass half full of vodka and then sadistically dumping red wine over everything in an attempt to fill up the glass. Screaming "BRUTAL HAMMER" while this process takes place is highly encouraged, as is forcing anyone within earshot to consume one with you. We assume most reputable bars will not make this drink for you, so this might be best left for the after party.

FOR DRINK RECIPES AND MORE INFORMATION: THESECONDGLASS.COM