Red Sangria With Herbs and Citrus

Rate this recipe
Be the first to rate

Are you looking for a refreshing and flavorful drink to enjoy on a warm summer day?

Red Sangria With Herbs and Citrus
Servings
8

Method

  1. In a small saucepan, heat sugar and ¾ cup of water over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Let the mixture cool to create a simple syrup.

  2. In a large bowl, combine thyme sprigs, rosemary, lime slices, slices from 2 oranges and 2 lemons, 10 mint sprigs, and 4 star anise pods. Pour in brandy, liqueur, and vermouth. Chill the mixture for at least 4 hours, but preferably up to 12 hours.

  3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher filled with ice, pressing on the solids to extract the flavors. Stir in wine and 1 cup of the simple syrup.

  4. Garnish with additional orange slices, lemon slices, mint sprigs, and star anise. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.

  5. Serve the sangria in glasses filled with ice.

  6. The base can be prepared a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

About this drink

Introduction

Are you looking for a refreshing and flavorful drink to enjoy on a warm summer day? Look no further than red sangria with herbs and citrus! This delightful beverage combines the rich and fruity flavors of red wine with the zesty kick of fresh herbs and citrus fruits.

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

Imagine the vibrant colors of juicy oranges, tangy lemons, and luscious berries blending harmoniously with the deep red hues of a quality red wine. As you take a sip, the refreshing taste of the fruits is complemented by the subtle hints of mint, basil, or rosemary.

A Burst of Refreshment

Just like a cool breeze on a scorching day, red sangria with herbs and citrus provides a burst of refreshment. The combination of herbs and citrus not only enhances the flavor but also adds a revitalizing element to the drink. It's like a rejuvenating spa treatment for your taste buds!

Herbal Infusion

Imagine a bouquet of fresh herbs gently infusing their aromatic essence into a pitcher of red wine. The flavors meld together, creating a unique and invigorating blend. The herbs lend a subtle earthiness and complexity to the sangria, elevating it to a whole new level.

Citrus Twist

The addition of citrus fruits adds a zesty twist to the sangria. The tangy flavors of oranges, lemons, and limes brighten up the drink and provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the red wine. It's like a burst of sunshine in every sip!

How to Make Red Sangria With Herbs and Citrus

Now that you're salivating at the thought of this delicious concoction, let's dive into how you can make your own red sangria with herbs and citrus.

Step 1Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. You'll need a bottle of red wine, a variety of fresh herbs (such as mint, basil, or rosemary), a selection of citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, and limes work well), some sweetener (like honey or sugar), and a splash of sparkling water for a bit of fizz.

Step 2Prepare the Fruits and Herbs

Wash the citrus fruits thoroughly and slice them into thin rounds or wedges. Rinse the herbs and gently bruise them to release their fragrant oils. This will help infuse the sangria with their flavors.

Step 3Mix it Up

In a large pitcher, combine the red wine, sliced fruits, herbs, and sweetener. Stir everything together gently, ensuring that the flavors mingle and meld. Let the mixture sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour, allowing the flavors to develop and intensify.

Step 4Serve and Enjoy

When you're ready to serve, add a splash of sparkling water to give the sangria a fizzy kick. Pour it into glasses filled with ice and garnish with a sprig of fresh herbs or a citrus wedge. Sip, savor, and let the flavors transport you to a sun-soaked terrace overlooking a Mediterranean vineyard.

Conclusion

Red sangria with herbs and citrus is the epitome of a perfect summer drink. It's like a symphony of flavors, with the richness of the red wine, the freshness of the herbs, and the zesty tang of the citrus fruits. So why not gather your ingredients, mix up a pitcher, and let the flavors of summer dance on your palate?

Frequently asked questions

Can I use white wine instead of red wine?

Absolutely! While red wine is traditionally used in sangria, you can experiment with white wine for a lighter and fruitier version.

Can I make sangria without alcohol?

Of course! Simply replace the red wine with a non-alcoholic alternative, such as grape juice or a fruit-infused tea.

How long can I keep the sangria in the refrigerator?

Sangria is best enjoyed within 24-48 hours of preparation. After that, the flavors may start to deteriorate.

Can I add other fruits to the sangria?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite fruits like strawberries, peaches, or even apples to add your own personal touch.

Can I make a large batch of sangria for a party?

Yes, you can easily scale up the recipe to make a large pitcher or even a punch bowl of sangria for a gathering. Just remember to adjust the quantities accordingly!

Can I make sangria in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sangria ahead of time and let it sit in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. This will allow the flavors to meld together even more.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

While fresh herbs are recommended for their vibrant flavors, you can use dried herbs if that's what you have on hand. Just remember to use smaller quantities as dried herbs tend to have a more concentrated flavor.

Can I use carbonated water instead of sparkling water?

Yes, you can use carbonated water as a substitute for sparkling water. It will still give your sangria that delightful fizz!

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

More cocktails

See all →