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Sangria is a refreshing and fruity drink that originated in Spain and has become famous all over the world. While traditional sangria is made with red wine, white wine sangria is a delicious, lighter alternative that is perfect for warmer weather. In this article, we'll show you how to make a delicious white wine sangria recipe that's ideal for your next summer gathering.

What is Sangria and What Makes it so Special?

Sangria originates from Spain, where it has been a popular drink for centuries. The word "sangria" comes from the Spanish word "sangre," which means blood. The drink's name is likely derived from its deep red color, which is reminiscent of blood. Sangria has traditionally been made with red wine, but variations of the recipe have emerged over time, including white and sparkling wine versions. Today, sangria is enjoyed worldwide and has become a popular summer drink, especially in warm-weather countries.

Sangria appears as a wine-based punch that typically includes chopped fruit, sweetener, and a spirit. It's usually served cold and is a perfect drink for hot weather. Sangria is also a social drink meant to be shared among friends and family. It's easy to make in large batches, making it perfect for entertaining.

Traditionally, sangria is made with red wine but can also be made with white or sparkling wine. Red wine sangria is the most common type and is made with a medium-bodied wine, like Rioja or Tempranillo, along with chopped fruit, sweetener, and a spirit such as brandy or rum. 

On the other hand, white wine sangria is made with a light and crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, and typically includes sliced fruit, sweetener, and a spirit like brandy or triple sec. White wine sangria is a refreshing and lighter alternative to the traditional red wine version and is perfect for warm weather.

Ingredients

If you wonder how to make sangria with white wine, we've got you covered. To make this delicious drink, you will need the following:

  • 1 bottle of white wine (750ml)
  • 1 cup of sliced strawberries
  • 1 cup of sliced peaches
  • 1 cup of sliced oranges
  • 1/4 cup of brandy
  • 1/4 cup of orange liqueur
  • 1/4 cup of sugar
  • 1 can of club soda (12 oz)
  • Ice cubes
  • Mint leaves (optional)

Process

  1. Start by washing and slicing the fruit. Use a sharp knife to slice the strawberries, peaches, and oranges into small pieces. You can also use other fruits like apples, pears, or grapes if you like.
  2. Add the sliced fruit, sugar, brandy, and orange liqueur to a large pitcher. Mix everything well and let it sit for about 30 minutes to allow the fruit to release its juices.
  3. Add the white wine to the pitcher and stir well. Refrigerate the sangria for at least 2 hours or overnight to let the flavors blend.
  4. Add the club soda to the pitcher before serving and stir gently. Add some ice cubes to individual glasses and pour the sangria over the ice. Garnish with mint leaves if desired.

Options for White Wine in Sangria

When choosing the best white wine for sangria, many options exist. The most important thing is to select a light and crisp wine with citrus or tropical fruit flavors. Here are some of the best white wines to use in your sangria:

  • Sauvignon Blanc: This wine has crisp acidity and herbaceous flavors that work well with the fruit in sangria.
  • Pinot Grigio: This wine has a light, refreshing taste with hints of citrus and apple. It's perfect for a summery sangria.
  • Moscato: This wine is slightly sweet with peach, apricot, and orange blossom flavors. It adds a lovely floral note to your sangria.

You can also experiment with other white wines, like Chardonnay, Riesling, or Viognier, to find the one that best suits your taste.

Tips

  • Use fresh fruit: Fresh fruit is key to a delicious sangria. Choose fruits that are in season and ripe for the best flavor.
  • Chill your ingredients: Make sure your white wine, fruit, and club soda are all chilled before making your sangria. This will ensure that your drink is ice-cold and refreshing.
  • Let the flavors blend: The longer your sangria sits, the more the flavors will blend. Make your sangria a day ahead of time to get the best taste.
  • Don't use too much sugar: Sangria is meant to be a refreshing and fruity drink, not a super-sweet one. Use just enough sugar to balance out the tartness of the fruit and wine.
  • Use a pitcher with a spout: When it comes time to serve your sangria, using a pitcher with a spout will make it easier to pour and help prevent spills.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs: Adding fresh herbs like mint, basil, or thyme can add an extra layer of flavor to your sangria. Just be sure to use herbs that complement the flavors of the fruit and wine you've chosen.

What does sangria taste good with?

White wine sangria is a versatile and refreshing drink that pairs well with a variety of foods. Its fruity and citrus flavors complement many different dishes and can enhance the flavors of your meal. Here are some suggestions for what white wine sangria tastes good with:

  1. Appetizers: White wine sangria pairs well with light and fresh appetizers like bruschetta, crostini, or caprese salad. Its fruity flavors complement spicy or savory appetizers like shrimp cocktails or buffalo wings.
  2. Seafood: White wine sangria matches seafood dishes, especially those with citrus or tropical fruit flavors. Try pairing it with grilled shrimp, ceviche, or fish tacos.
  3. Salads: A light and refreshing white wine sangria pairs well with fresh salads, especially those with fruit or citrus. Try serving it with a mixed green salad with strawberries or a citrus salad with grapefruit and avocado.
  4. BBQ: White wine sangria is a perfect drink to serve at a summer BBQ. Its fruity flavors and lightness complement grilled meats like chicken or pork and can also balance out the spiciness of BBQ sauces.
  5. Cheese: White wine sangria is a great drink to pair with a cheese plate. Its acidity and fruity flavors cut through the richness of the cheese and complement the flavors of different types of cheese.

Bottom line

In conclusion, making white wine sangria is a simple and delicious way to impress your guests at your next party or gathering. By using fresh fruit, a light and crisp white wine for sangria, and a few key ingredients like brandy and orange liqueur, you can create a refreshing and fruity drink that's perfect for a hot summer day. And with a little experimentation, you can find the perfect white wine and fruit combination that best suits your taste. So go ahead and try making white wine sangria for yourself and discover just how delicious and refreshing this classic drink can be!