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Strawberry Sangria

A refreshingly light and naturally sweet strawberry sangria that's perfect for warm afternoons and gatherings. This crowd-pleasing beverage features fresh strawberries, citrus, and wine with minimal added sugar, and improves as it chills.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 7 servings
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: Spanish
Calories: 145
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 bottle 750 milliliters dry white wine or light red wine
  • 1 pound fresh strawberries hulled and halved
  • 2 medium oranges sliced into thin wheels
  • 1 lemon sliced into thin wheels
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice about 1 orange, squeezed
  • 2 tablespoons honey or 3 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/4 cup brandy or cognac optional but recommended
  • 1/2 cup sparkling water or club soda added just before serving
  • Ice cubes for serving
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish optional

Equipment

  • Large pitcher or beverage dispenser (at least 2-quart capacity)
  • Sharp knife for cutting fruit
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon for stirring
  • Jigger or measuring cups for liquids
  • Wine glasses or serving glasses
  • Fine mesh strainer (optional, for a cleaner pour)

Method
 

  1. Wash all strawberries, oranges, and lemon thoroughly under cool running water and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Remove the green leafy tops from each strawberry using a small knife or hulling tool, then cut each berry in half lengthwise.
  3. Using a sharp knife, slice oranges and lemon into thin wheels, about 1/4 inch thick, keeping the peel on.
  4. Pour the entire bottle of wine into your pitcher, then add the honey or sugar and fresh orange juice. Stir well for about 30 seconds to ensure the sweetener dissolves completely.
  5. If using brandy, pour it in and stir to combine, about 10 seconds.
  6. Add prepared strawberry halves, orange wheels, and lemon wheels to the pitcher, stirring gently to distribute them evenly.
  7. Cover the pitcher and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, ideally up to 8 hours.
  8. Just before serving, pour in the sparkling water or club soda and stir gently to incorporate.
  9. Serve in chilled glasses filled with ice, allowing some macerated fruit to tumble into each glass. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.

Notes

Chill your serving glasses in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before pouring for best results. Taste after 4 hours and adjust sweetness if needed. Keep a separate bottle of chilled sparkling water nearby when serving so guests can top up their glasses. Sangria keeps in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though add fresh sparkling water each time you serve.