Got leftover wine? Don’t pour it down the drain! Whether it’s red or white, wine’s versatility extends far beyond the glass. From savory dishes to sweet treats, here are 9 creative ways to put every last drop to good use.
1. Cook With It
Leftover wine is a flavor powerhouse in the kitchen.
- Red wine: Add depth to stews, braises, or pasta sauces like Bolognese. Try a red wine reduction to drizzle over roasted veggies or pair with meats for a luxurious finish.
- White wine: Perfect for deglazing pans, making risottos creamy, or creating light, zesty sauces for seafood or chicken.
Get the recipes for Spice-Crusted Ribeye with Pinot Noir BBQ Sauce, Red Wine and Plum Ice Pops, and One Pot Lemony Rigatoni Alfredo with Mushrooms and Peas.
2. Make Mulled Wine
Turn your leftover red wine into a cozy holiday drink. Combine it with cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, citrus slices, and a touch of honey or sugar. Simmer gently and enjoy the warm, spiced flavors of the season.
3. Whip Up a Wine-Based Dessert
Wine and dessert? Yes, please!
- Poach pears or stone fruits in red wine for an elegant treat.
- Make a tangy wine syrup to drizzle over cakes, pancakes, or ice cream.
4. Turn It Into Vinegar
Homemade wine vinegar is easier than you think. Combine leftover wine with water and a mother of vinegar (or unpasteurized vinegar) in a clean jar. Cover loosely and let it ferment into a tangy, homemade vinegar perfect for salad dressings and marinades.
5. Freeze It
Wine ice cubes? Genius. Pour leftover wine into an ice cube tray and freeze. These handy cubes are perfect for tossing into sauces, soups, or stews whenever you need a quick flavor boost.
6. Craft a Festive Sangria
Holiday leftovers? Make a holiday drink! Mix wine with fruit slices, a splash of juice, and a little soda water or brandy for a refreshing sangria. Customize it with seasonal fruits like oranges, cranberries, or apples.
Get the recipes for White Peach and Cherry Sangria Punch, Pomegranate Vanilla Bean Sangria, and Rosemary, Ginger, and Apple Sangria.
7. Make a Wine Jelly
Spread the love—literally! Turn wine into a sweet jelly for pairing with cheese boards or gifting. Its rich, fruity flavor is a perfect match for crackers and soft cheeses.
8. Use It as a Marinade
Tenderize and flavor like a pro. Combine wine with olive oil, garlic, herbs, and spices to create a delicious marinade for meats or roasted veggies. Red wine works well for beef, while white wine is great for chicken or fish.
9. Create a Glaze for Meats
Transform wine into a glossy, flavorful glaze. Reduce it with honey, mustard, or balsamic vinegar to create a glaze for ham, turkey, or pork. Brush it on during cooking for a beautifully caramelized finish.
Bonus: Sip on a Spritzer
Sometimes simple is best. Mix leftover wine with soda water and a splash of citrus juice for a light, refreshing spritzer.
Get the recipe for a Spanish Tinto de Verano.
Don’t let that half-full bottle go to waste! These hacks turn your leftover wine into the gift that keeps on giving, from savory dishes to festive sips. Which one will you try first? Let us know in the comments, and stock up on your next bottle at Misfits Market!
Thirsty for more? Keep reading: 11 Recipes Using Wine