There’s something effortlessly fun about a drink that’s both simple and surprisingly good. That’s exactly what you get with Jesus Juice-a light, fruity cocktail that blends red wine and cola into one seriously easygoing sipper. It’s been my go-to cocktail for backyard BBQs and low-key evenings with friends. If you’ve never tried it, you’re in for a treat.
Jesus Juice
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail (easily scaled up for a group)
Ingredients
– 4 oz (120 ml) red wine – a fruity red like Merlot or Shiraz works great
– 2 oz (60 ml) cola – regular or sugar-free, your choice
– Ice – enough to fill your glass
– Optional: lemon or lime slice for garnish
Equipment
– Highball glass or Collins glass
– Spoon or cocktail stirrer
Method
- Fill your glass about ¾ full with ice. This keeps the drink chilled and crisp.
- Pour in the red wine first. This helps it mix more evenly with the cola later.
- Add the cola slowly to keep some of the fizz intact.
- Give it a gentle stir-just enough to mix without going flat.
- Garnish with a slice of lemon or lime if you like a citrusy kick.
That’s it. No shaker, no fancy tools-just pour, stir, and sip.
Tips for the Best Jesus Juice
- Chill your ingredients first. Cold wine and cola mean less ice melt and better flavor.
- Use a smooth red wine with fruity notes-nothing too dry or tannic.
- Don’t over-stir. You want to keep some of that cola sparkle.
- Taste and tweak. Like it sweeter? Use a sweeter wine or a splash more cola. Want it lighter? Add a little soda water.
I’ve made this drink countless times, and one thing I’ve learned: the better the wine, the smoother the cocktail. But even a budget bottle works fine-it’s all about balance.
Make-Ahead Notes
If you’re making this for a crowd, mix a batch in a pitcher just before guests arrive:
– Combine the red wine and cola in a 2:1 ratio.
– Chill the pitcher in the fridge-don’t add ice yet.
– Serve over ice in individual glasses when ready.
Avoid adding ice to the pitcher, as it’ll water down the drink over time.
Storage
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh. If you do have leftovers (unlikely!), cover and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just know it may lose some fizz.
Serving Suggestions
Jesus Juice pairs well with:
– A casual cheese board – think brie, cheddar, and some grapes
– Grilled meats – burgers, ribs, or even skewers
– Fresh fruit – strawberries, oranges, and melon are great alongside
– Salty snacks like pretzels or spiced nuts
Variations
Jesus Juice Royale
– Swap cola for chilled champagne or sparkling wine.
– Mix equal parts red wine and bubbly over ice.
– It’s a little fancier but still super easy.
Jesus Juice Sangria
– Add chopped fruit like oranges, apples, and berries to your classic Jesus Juice.
– Let it sit for 15-30 minutes before serving over ice.
– Great for parties!
Minty Jesus Juice (Mojito Style)
– Muddle 3-4 mint leaves and a lime wedge in your glass.
– Add wine and cola as usual.
– Garnish with more mint. It’s refreshing with a twist.
Virgin Jesus Juice
– Replace the red wine with grape juice.
– Same fruity vibe, no alcohol. Great for kids or anyone skipping booze.
Ingredient Substitutions
– Red wine: Try white wine for a lighter, crisper version. Rosé also works well.
– Cola: Use cherry cola, vanilla cola, or even root beer for fun twists.
– Garnish: Lemon is classic, but lime, orange slices, or even a few frozen berries add color and flavor.
FAQs
What’s the best wine to use?
Go for something fruity and not too dry. Merlot, Shiraz, or even a Spanish red like Tempranillo are great options.
Can I use diet or sugar-free cola?
Absolutely. It works just as well and cuts down on sugar.
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Yes! Just multiply the ingredients and mix in a large pitcher or punch bowl. Keep it chilled and serve over ice.
What if I don’t have a highball glass?
No problem. Any tall glass will do. Even a mason jar works in a pinch.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but mix just before serving for the best fizz. If you do prep ahead, store it in the fridge and stir gently before pouring.
Why It Works
This cocktail blends the bold, fruity flavors of red wine with the sweetness and fizz of cola. It’s kind of like a laid-back sangria, minus the prep time. The carbonation lifts the wine’s richness, making it feel lighter and more refreshing. Think of it as the cocktail version of your favorite playlist-easy, fun, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re serving it at a summer cookout or just relaxing on the couch, Jesus Juice is one of those drinks that feels like a little celebration in a glass. Cheers!
