Bourbon Sangria
A sophisticated twist on classic sangria, combining red wine and fresh fruits with the smoky depth of bourbon. Perfect for summer entertaining!
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 0 minutes mins
Steeping Time 4 hours hrs
Total Time 4 hours hrs
Course Drinks
Cuisine American, Fusion
Servings 8 servings
Calories 210 kcal
Large Glass Pitcher
Stirring Spoon
Sangria Base
- 1 bottle medium-bodied red wine 750ml, Merlot or Tempranillo recommended
- 1 cup quality bourbon Woodford Reserve or Maker's Mark work beautifully
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup substitute with honey or agave nectar if preferred
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice approximately 1 large orange
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Fresh Fruits
- 1 orange sliced into thin rounds
- 1 lemon sliced into thin rounds
- 1 apple cored and chopped into ½-inch pieces
- 1 cup fresh or frozen berries strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries work well
- 1 cinnamon stick
For Serving
- club soda optional, for a lighter finish
- ice cubes
- mint or rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
Wash all fruits thoroughly. Slice the orange and lemon into thin rounds, being careful to remove any seeds. Core and chop the apple into bite-sized pieces. If using strawberries, hull and quarter them. Combine all prepared fruit in a large pitcher.
Pour the red wine, bourbon, maple syrup, orange juice, and lemon juice over the prepared fruits. For enhanced flavor, you can muddle about ¼ of the fruit lightly to release their juices.
Add the cinnamon stick to the mixture. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This patience will reward you with a significantly more integrated flavor profile.
When ready to serve, stir the sangria to redistribute the fruit. Fill glasses halfway with ice, pour sangria over, ensuring each glass gets a good assortment of the infused fruit.
For a lighter, effervescent finish, top with a splash of club soda just before serving. Garnish with a fresh sprig of mint or rosemary if desired.
The longer the sangria steeps, the more developed the flavors become. For optimal flavor, prepare 12-24 hours before serving.
Bourbon Sangria can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, with flavors often peaking on day 2.
Always add club soda just before serving to maintain effervescence.
Calories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 18gSugar: 14g
Keyword Bourbon Sangria, Whiskey Sangria, Summer Cocktails, Bourbon Cocktails