Can I use white wine instead of red?

Absolutely! White Sangria is a crisp, refreshing twist. Use a dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc) and pair with fruits like peaches, green apples, and grapes.

Is this drink very sweet?

The maple syrup adds gentle sweetness, but the bitters and bourbon keep it balanced. You can adjust the maple syrup amount to suit your preferences.

What’s the difference between a Kitty and a Kalimotxo?

Great question! Both use red wine as a base, but a Kalimotxo combines red wine with cola, while the Kitty swaps in ginger ale for a spicier, less sweet profile.

Can I make a pitcher for a group?

Definitely. Simply scale up the measurements (keeping the wine and ginger ale in equal parts) and mix in a large pitcher with plenty of ice. Add lemon wheels for both garnish and flavor.

Kitty

Name: Kitty
Prep time: 3 min
Total time: 3 min
Yield: 1 serving
Cuisine: Cocktail
Ingredients: 3 oz Dry red wine; 3 oz Ginger ale; 0.25 oz Fresh lemon juice; 1 cup Ice

The Kitty is a refreshing, low-alcohol cocktail that combines the gentle sweetness of red wine with the crisp fizz of ginger ale. It’s a delightfully simple sipper—perfect for brunches, picnics, or any time you want something easy-going and sophisticated. Light, effervescent, and subtly complex, the Kitty is a charming twist on classic wine spritzers.

3 minutesEasy1 serving

Featured

Ingredients

1 serving

Dry red wine
90 ml (3 oz)
Choose a fruity red like Merlot or Pinot Noir
Ginger ale
90 ml (3 oz)
Chilled; can substitute with ginger beer for extra spice
Fresh lemon juice
10 ml (0.25 oz)
Optional, for added brightness
Ice
1 cup
As needed to fill the glass

Tools Needed

Wine glass or highball glass
Bar spoon (or regular spoon)
Jigger or measuring cup
Ice cube tray

Instructions

Fill a wine glass or highball glass with plenty of fresh ice.
Pour 3 oz of dry red wine over the ice.
Add 0.25 oz of fresh lemon juice if desired, for extra brightness.
Slowly top with 3 oz of chilled ginger ale.
Give the drink a gentle stir with a bar spoon to combine.
Garnish and serve immediately.

Why You'll Love This Cocktail

Super easy to make—no special skills or fancy equipment required.
Low-alcohol, making it perfect for longer sipping sessions.
Beautifully balances the flavors of wine and ginger ale for a refreshing taste.
Highly customizable—swap wines or experiment with different ginger sodas!
A crowd-pleaser for both wine lovers and cocktail enthusiasts.

History & Origin

The origins of the Kitty cocktail are a little misty, much like its flavor profile. Most sources trace it to the mid-20th century, particularly as a popular drink among those seeking a lighter, sessionable alternative to strong spirits. The name 'Kitty' is believed to be a playful nod to its gentle, approachable character—think of a drink that's as easy-going and social as a house cat. Over time, it’s become a quiet classic in wine bars and home gatherings alike, often enjoyed as a delightful aperitif.

Garnish

A lemon wheel or a twist of lemon peel. The citrus aroma adds a fresh touch and enhances the fruity notes of the wine.

Nutrition Info

Estimated per serving: 120-140 calories, 0g fat, 10-12g sugar, 1g protein, trace fiber. Actual values may vary based on the wine and ginger ale used.

Frequently Asked Questions

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