Spiced Strawberry Sangria: A Refreshing Summer Cocktail Recipe

Spiced Strawberry Sangria: Prepare to be transported to a sun-drenched Spanish fiesta with every sip of this vibrant and utterly irresistible concoction! Forget everything you thought you knew about sangria; this isn’t your average fruit punch. We’re elevating the classic with a warm, aromatic spice blend that perfectly complements the sweetness of ripe strawberries and the robustness of red wine.

Sangria, a beloved beverage with roots stretching back to ancient Greece and Rome, has evolved over centuries into a symbol of Spanish hospitality and celebration. Traditionally, it was a way to make wine more palatable and stretch it further, using whatever fruits were in season. Our Spiced Strawberry Sangria pays homage to this resourceful history while adding a modern twist that’s guaranteed to impress your guests.

What makes this particular sangria so special? It’s the harmonious balance of flavors. The juicy strawberries provide a burst of summery sweetness, while the spices – think cinnamon, cloves, and a hint of star anise – add a layer of complexity and warmth that makes it perfect for any time of year. The red wine provides a delightful backbone, and the addition of brandy gives it an extra kick. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor payoff. Plus, it’s a beautiful drink to serve, making it the star of any gathering. Trust me, once you try this Spiced Strawberry Sangria, you’ll never go back to the ordinary!

Ingredients:

• 1 (750ml) bottle of dry red wine (like Rioja or Garnacha)
• 1/2 cup brandy
• 1/4 cup orange liqueur (like Cointreau or Grand Marnier)
• 1/4 cup spiced rum
• 1/4 cup simple syrup (see instructions below for making your own!)
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 star anise
• 4 whole cloves
• 1 orange, sliced into rounds
• 1 lemon, sliced into rounds
• 1 lime, sliced into rounds
• 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
• 1 cup sparkling water or club soda, chilled (for topping off)
• Ice, for serving

Making Simple Syrup (Optional, but Recommended!)

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water

Preparing the Spiced Strawberry Sangria:

Making the Simple Syrup (if needed):

1. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and let cool completely. This can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Infusing the Wine:

1. In a large pitcher or punch bowl, pour in the entire bottle of red wine.
2. Add the brandy, orange liqueur, and spiced rum.
3. Pour in the simple syrup (adjust the amount to your liking, depending on how sweet you prefer your sangria). Start with 1/4 cup and add more to taste).
4. Add the cinnamon stick, star anise, and whole cloves. These spices are key to giving our sangria that warm, comforting flavor!
5. Gently stir everything together to combine.

Adding the Fruit:

1. Add the sliced orange, lemon, and lime rounds to the pitcher.
2. Add the quartered strawberries. Don’t be shy with the strawberries – they’re the star of the show!
3. Gently stir the fruit into the wine mixture.

Chilling and Marinating:

1. Cover the pitcher tightly with plastic wrap or a lid.
2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and the fruit to infuse the wine with its deliciousness. The longer it sits, the better it gets! I usually aim for at least 8 hours.

Serving the Sangria:

1. Before serving, give the sangria a good stir.
2. Fill glasses with ice.
3. Pour the sangria over the ice, filling each glass about 3/4 full.
4. Top off each glass with a splash of chilled sparkling water or club soda. This adds a nice fizz and lightens the sangria a bit.
5. Garnish with extra strawberry slices, orange slices, or a cinnamon stick, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sangria, add more simple syrup to taste. If you prefer a drier sangria, reduce the amount of simple syrup or omit it altogether.
• Use different fruit: Feel free to experiment with other fruits, such as raspberries, blueberries, peaches, or apples. Just make sure to choose fruits that complement the flavors of the wine and spices.
• Add a splash of juice: For an extra burst of flavor, add a splash of orange juice, cranberry juice, or pomegranate juice to the sangria.
• Make it ahead of time: Sangria is best when made ahead of time, as this allows the flavors to meld together. You can make it up to 24 hours in advance. Just be sure to add the sparkling water or club soda right before serving to prevent it from going flat.
• Use a different type of wine: While I recommend a dry red wine like Rioja or Garnacha, you can also use a rosé wine or even a white wine for a lighter sangria. If using white wine, consider using fruits like green apples, grapes, and peaches.
• Spice it up even more: If you like a spicier sangria, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of fresh ginger to the mixture.
• Non-alcoholic version: To make a non-alcoholic version, substitute the red wine with grape juice or cranberry juice. Omit the brandy, orange liqueur, and spiced rum. You can add a splash of orange extract or almond extract for flavor. Use sparkling cider or ginger ale instead of sparkling water or club soda.
• Consider the ice: The ice you use can impact the flavor of your sangria as it melts. If you’re concerned about dilution, consider using large ice cubes or even freezing some of the sangria into ice cubes to use instead.
• Presentation matters: Serve your sangria in a beautiful pitcher or punch bowl. Use attractive glasses and garnish with fresh fruit and herbs. This will elevate the drinking experience and make your sangria even more enjoyable.
• Don’t forget the bubbles: The sparkling water or club soda adds a refreshing fizz to the sangria. Don’t skip this step! You can also use other sparkling beverages, such as Prosecco or Champagne, for a more celebratory sangria.
• Strain it (optional): If you prefer a smoother sangria without the fruit pulp, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before serving. However, I personally like the texture and flavor that the fruit adds.
• Pairing suggestions: Spiced strawberry sangria pairs well with a variety of foods, such as grilled meats, cheeses, tapas, and desserts. It’s also a great drink to enjoy on its own on a warm summer evening.

Choosing the Right Wine:

The type of red wine you choose will significantly impact the final flavor of your sangria. I generally recommend a dry, fruity red wine that isn’t too tannic. Here are a few options:

• Rioja: A Spanish red wine that is typically made from Tempranillo grapes. It has a fruity flavor with notes of cherry, plum, and vanilla.
• Garnacha (Grenache): Another Spanish red wine that is known for its fruity and spicy flavors. It has notes of raspberry, strawberry, and black pepper.
• Pinot Noir: A lighter-bodied red wine with a delicate flavor. It has notes of cherry, raspberry, and earthy undertones. If you choose Pinot Noir, be sure to select one that is fruit-forward and not too oaky.
• Merlot: A medium-bodied red wine with a smooth, velvety texture. It has notes of black cherry, plum, and chocolate.

Avoid using wines that are too tannic, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah, as they can make the sangria taste bitter. You also want to avoid wines that are too sweet, as they will make the sangria overly sweet.

Why Spiced Rum?

You might be wondering why I specifically call for spiced rum in this recipe. While you could certainly use regular white rum, the spiced rum adds another layer of complexity and warmth to the sangria. The spices in the rum, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, complement the other spices in the recipe and enhance the overall flavor profile. If you don’t have spiced rum on hand, you can substitute it with regular white rum and add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the mixture.

The Importance of Marinating:

I can’t stress enough how important it is to marinate the sangria for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the fruit to infuse the wine with its deliciousness. The longer it sits, the better it gets! During the marinating process, the fruit releases its juices into the wine, creating a more complex and flavorful drink. The spices also have time to infuse the wine with their aroma and flavor. If you’re short on time, you can marinate the sangria for a minimum of 2 hours, but I highly recommend marinating it overnight for the best results.

Enjoy Responsibly!

Sangria is a delicious and refreshing drink, but it’s important to enjoy it responsibly. Be mindful of your alcohol consumption and drink plenty of water. Never drink and drive. And most importantly, have fun!

Conclusion:

This Spiced Strawberry Sangria is truly a must-try, and I’m not just saying that! The vibrant flavors of ripe strawberries, the warm embrace of cinnamon and cloves, and the refreshing kick of citrus all come together in a symphony of taste that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s so much more than just a drink; it’s an experience. It’s the kind of recipe that will have your guests asking for seconds (and the recipe!). What makes this sangria so special is its versatility. It’s equally at home at a casual backyard barbecue as it is at a more sophisticated dinner party. The spice blend elevates it beyond your average fruit punch, giving it a depth and complexity that will impress even the most discerning palates. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make! A little chopping, a little stirring, and a little patience while it chills, and you’re ready to go. But the best part? You can totally customize it to your liking!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

Want to make it extra festive? Add a splash of sparkling wine or club soda just before serving for a bubbly kick. Garnish with extra strawberry slices, orange wedges, and a cinnamon stick for a beautiful presentation. For a non-alcoholic version, simply substitute the red wine with a good quality grape juice or cranberry juice. You can even use a sparkling cider for a festive touch. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or even a few slices of peach. A sprig of fresh mint or basil can also add a refreshing herbal note. And don’t be afraid to experiment with the spices! A pinch of nutmeg or star anise can add a unique twist. If you like a little heat, a tiny sliver of fresh ginger or a pinch of cayenne pepper can give it a subtle kick. I personally love serving this Spiced Strawberry Sangria with grilled chicken or fish, as the fruity and spicy notes complement the savory flavors perfectly. It’s also a fantastic accompaniment to cheese and charcuterie boards. Imagine sipping on this refreshing sangria while nibbling on some creamy brie and crusty bread – pure bliss! But honestly, the possibilities are endless. This sangria is so adaptable that it can be paired with almost anything. It’s the perfect drink to enjoy on a warm summer evening, or even on a cozy winter night when you’re craving a taste of sunshine. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to create a truly unforgettable drink. I promise you won’t be disappointed. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! And I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? What did your guests think? Please, share your photos and stories in the comments below. Let’s create a community of sangria lovers! Happy mixing! I can’t wait to see what you create with this Spiced Strawberry Sangria recipe. Cheers!

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