How to Make the Perfect Summer Sangria (With Unexpected Fruits!)

Summer and sangria go together like sunshine and sunglasses—easy, fun, and totally refreshing. But here’s the twist: if you want to elevate your sangria game this season, ditch the usual oranges and lemons for some unexpected fruits that’ll make your friends do a double take and your taste buds do a happy dance.

The Basics: What You’ll Need

• A bottle of dry red wine (Spanish Tempranillo or Garnacha work beautifully)

• A splash of brandy or your favorite fruit liqueur (because, why not?)

• Sparkling water or soda for fizz

• Sweetener: honey, agave, or simple syrup

Now, Let’s Talk Fruit: The Unexpected Stars

Forget the usual suspects—try adding fruits like:

• Stone Fruit: Peaches or nectarines bring juicy sweetness and a gorgeous golden hue.

• Berries: Blueberries or blackberries add a deep color and a burst of tangy flavor.

• Tropical Twist: Pineapple or mango chunks add sunshine vibes that scream summer.

• Herbal Bonus: Toss in a few fresh basil or mint leaves for an aromatic lift.

The Magic Mix

1. Prep your fruit: Slice your peaches, chop mango, or hull berries—go wild.

2. Mix: In a large pitcher, combine the wine, brandy, sweetener, and your chosen fruits.

3. Chill: Let it rest in the fridge for at least 2 hours (overnight is even better). This step lets the flavors marry perfectly.

4. Fizz it up: Right before serving, add sparkling water or soda to keep things lively and refreshing.

   
   

 White Wine Variation: Light, Crisp, and Totally Crushable

Not into reds in the heat? Try a white sangria that’s just as exciting:

• Use a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Albariño, or Pinot Grigio

• Add green apple slices, kiwi, cucumber, or white peaches for a light, spa-day vibe

• A splash of elderflower liqueur or peach schnapps levels up the flavor

• Same method: mix, chill, fizz, and serve

It’s crisp, refreshing, and perfect for sipping all afternoon—think poolside luxury in a glass.

Serve It Up Like a Pro

Pour your sangria over ice, garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a twist of citrus peel, and you’re set. But if you want to keep your sangria cold without watering it down, try one of these clever tricks instead:

• Toss in frozen fruit cubes—freeze berries or peach slices ahead of time to chill and add extra flavor as they thaw.

• Use wine ice cubes made by freezing leftover sangria or wine for coolness without dilution.

• Chill every ingredient beforehand and refrigerate your sangria pitcher for hours so it’s icy cold when you serve.

• Serve in pre-chilled glasses to keep things cold longer.

• Or try whiskey stones or stainless steel chillers that cool your drink without melting.

Why stick to the same old summer drinks when you can surprise your guests with this fruity, fresh twist? Your perfect summer sangria is just a pitcher away—and with these unexpected fruits, it’s anything but basic.