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Blackberry Sangria

A refreshing fruit-forward sangria featuring blackberries, citrus, and a blend of red wine, brandy, and orange liqueur. Perfect for summer gatherings and make-ahead entertaining.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: Spanish-inspired
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

Main
  • Red wine: 1 bottle 750 ml dry or medium-dry Spanish red wine like Garnacha or Tempranillo
  • Brandy: 1/4 cup 60 ml for warmth and depth
  • Orange liqueur: 2 tablespoons 30 ml Cointreau or triple sec
  • Fresh blackberries: 2 cups about 10 ounces divided for garnish and flavor
  • Orange: 1 large orange sliced into thin half-moons
  • Lemon: 1 lemon sliced into thin half-moons
  • Simple syrup: 1/4 cup 60 ml plus more to taste
  • Sparkling water or club soda: 1 cup 240 ml optional, added just before serving

Equipment

  • Large glass pitcher or sangria pitcher
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Wooden spoon for stirring
  • Glasses for serving
  • Cocktail strainer or fine-mesh sieve (optional)

Method
 

  1. Rinse the blackberries, orange, and lemon under cool water, pat them dry, and slice the citrus into thin half-moons.
  2. Pour the red wine into a large pitcher, then add the brandy and orange liqueur and stir to combine.
  3. Add the orange and lemon slices to the pitcher and stir gently to infuse the wine with citrus oils.
  4. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the fresh blackberries, reserving 1/2 cup for garnish.
  5. Add the simple syrup, stir well, taste, and adjust sweetness by adding more syrup one tablespoon at a time if desired.
  6. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, to allow flavors to meld.
  7. About 30 minutes before serving, chill your glasses in the freezer.
  8. Stir the sangria, pour into chilled glasses, top with a splash of sparkling water or club soda if using, and garnish with reserved blackberries and citrus slices.

Notes

Make ahead by chilling overnight for deeper flavor. Serve ice-cold with fruit garnish.