Sweet Sangria
A refreshing and fruity red wine punch perfect for large gatherings. This sweet sangria combines a homemade simple syrup with crisp apples, citrus wedges, and sparkling Fresca for a delightful party drink.
What it tastes like
The aroma is dominated by fermented red grapes and bright citrus oils from the fresh fruit peels. On the palate, the high sugar content masks the wine's tannins, resulting in a soft, syrupy mouthfeel. Carbonation from the soda adds a mild effervescence that carries flavors of lime and lemon through a sweet, fruit-heavy finish.
Flavour profile
Ingredients
- Red Wine1.5 l
- Granulated Sugar1 ml
- Hot Water2 ml
- Apple Wedges1 ml
- Orange1 whole
- Lemon1 whole
- Lime1 whole
- Fresca2 ml
Preparation
- 1
In a heat-safe container, dissolve the sugar in the hot water to create a simple syrup.
- 2
Allow the syrup to cool completely.
- 3
Peel the orange, lemon, and lime, then break or cut them into wedges.
- 4
In a large pitcher, combine the red wine, cooled sugar syrup, apple wedges, and citrus wedges.
- 5
Add the Fresca to the pitcher and stir gently.
- 6
Place the pitcher in the refrigerator for a few hours to chill and allow the flavors to meld.
- 7
Serve in tall glasses with a straw.
Substitutions
- FrescaClub soda — This reduces the overall sweetness and removes the grapefruit-lime flavor profile.
- Red WineRosé wine — Using rosé creates a lighter, crisper body with more floral notes and less tannin.
- Granulated SugarHoney — Honey introduces floral depth and a thicker viscosity to the base syrup.
- Apple WedgesSliced peaches — Peaches add a stone fruit aroma and a softer texture compared to the crunch of apples.
Variations
Spiced Sangria
Add two cinnamon sticks and three whole cloves to the hot water while dissolving the sugar to infuse warm, woody notes.
Fortified Sangria
Stir in 250ml of brandy to increase the alcohol content and add secondary notes of oak and caramel.