Rebellion in a Glass: A Bellevue Cocktail Day Special

–by Johan Rossouw

To properly celebrate World Cocktail Day, let’s start with the actual definition of a cocktail and a little bit of its history. (I’m going to need you to pretend I knew all of this by heart and didn’t just quickly Google it five minutes ago.)

What exactly is a Cocktail?

By the book, it’s a drink that combines one or more spirits with ingredients like fruit juice, bitters, syrup, or cream. They are designed to be complex, perfectly layered, and usually served ice-cold.

My favourite definition, however, is the metaphorical one: a mixture of diverse, often unexpected elements. You know, like a “cocktail of emotions.” I experience one of those on a regular basis, but since it’s International Cocktail Day, let’s stick to the kind served in a glass!

A Quick Sip of History

The history of the cocktail is a wild ride. Originating in the early 19th century as “medicinal tonics,” they were officially defined in 1806 as simple “bittered slings.” By the late 1800s, mixing drinks had become a sophisticated art form. They survived the dark days of Prohibition hidden away in underground speakeasies and roared back to life during the craft revival of the ’90s.

Today? A cocktail can be whatever you want it to be. And that’s where the fun starts.

The “Wine Cocktail” Rebellion.

I know some traditionalists might not like what I’m about to say, but if we’re ever going to be rebellious, this is the place to do it. Here is my golden rule: you should enjoy your drinks however you like them! If you want something a little lighter than a stiff spirit, more refreshing than a heavy red, or even a cozy winter warmer, wine makes a remarkably fantastic, accessible cocktail base.

To celebrate World Cocktail Day, we’ve put together three effortless recipes using two of our absolute favourite Bellevue Estate wines.

Recipes:

1. Bellevue Estate Chenin Blanc Spritzer

A bright, floral “Summer Sipper” for those golden afternoon hours.

• Glass: Large wine glass or highball.
• Ingredients:
  • 120ml Bellevue Estate Chenin Blanc
  • 100ml Cape Botanicals No. 3 (Elderflower, Pear & Mint infused)
  • 70ml Orange juice (fresh or store-bought)
• Method: Fill your glass with plenty of ice. Pour in the wine, botanical mixer, and juice. Give it a gentle sir.
• Garnish: A fresh orange slice.

Note: Can’t find Cape Botanical? Traditional lemonade works just fine.

2. Bellevue Estate Cinsault Cranberry Crush

Like Candy Crush, but this one makes you feel better (if enjoyed in moderation).

• Glass: Large Glass
• Ingredients:
  • 120ml Bellevue Estate Cinsault
  • 100ml Cranberry juice
  • 100ml Appetizer (or lemonade)
• Method: Fill the glass with ice. Add the Cinsault and cranberry juice, then top with Appetizer for that perfect fizz.
• Garnish: Fresh Mint and a handful of seasonal berries.

3. Bellevue Shiraz Rooibos Warmer

For those chilly May days when you need a hug in a mug.

• Glass: Your favorite teacup or mug
• Ingredients (1 serving):
  • 100ml Bellevue Estate Shiraz
  • 80ml Strong Rooibos tea (hot)
  • 40ml Apple juice
  • 1 tsp Honey
  • 1 cinnamon stick, star anise and a slice of orange
• Method: Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, ensuring it stays below a rolling boil to keep the flavours bright. Let it infuse for 15–20 minutes before serving warm.

Join the Experiment!

There you have it: three effortless wine cocktails that break the rules with enough depth to keep things interesting. But why stop here? If you’re feeling adventurous and mix up your own Bellevue wine cocktail, we’d love to hear about it. Send us your ideas and let’s grow the list together!

Cheers from Johan and the Bellevue Wine Estate team.