Description
This Green Apple Sangria offers a refreshing twist on the classic sangria recipe, combining crisp green apples, juicy grapes, and a blend of apple brandy, orange liqueur, and dry white wine. Lightly sweetened and topped with sparkling water for effervescence, it’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings or anytime you crave a vibrant, fruity cocktail.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit
- 2 green apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and chopped into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup green grapes, halved (quartered if large)
Liquids & Alcohol
- 750 ml bottle dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- 1/4 cup apple brandy (or Calvados)
- 1/4 cup orange liqueur (Cointreau or Triple Sec)
- 1/4 cup simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup sparkling water or club soda
Other
- Ice cubes for serving
- Optional garnishes: apple slices, lime wedges, mint sprigs
Instructions
- Chop the Apples: Wash, core, and chop the green apples into 1/2-inch cubes to ensure they release flavor and infuse properly.
- Halve the Grapes: Wash the green grapes and halve them for balanced fruit texture; quarter if the grapes are large.
- Combine in a Pitcher: Place the chopped apples and halved grapes into a large pitcher to prepare for the liquid ingredients.
- Pour in the Apple Brandy: Add 1/4 cup of apple brandy (or Calvados) to the pitcher to impart a warm, fruity depth.
- Add the Orange Liqueur: Pour in 1/4 cup of orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Triple Sec) to add citrusy sweetness and complexity.
- Sweeten with Simple Syrup: Add 1/4 cup of simple syrup, then adjust to taste after infusion to balance sweetness.
- Pour in the White Wine: Carefully pour the entire 750 ml bottle of dry white wine into the pitcher, stirring gently to combine all ingredients.
- Stir Gently: Mix all ingredients with a gentle stir to avoid bruising the fruit while combining the flavors.
- Refrigerate and Infuse: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate the sangria for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight (4+ hours) to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add Sparkling Water: Just before serving, stir in 1/2 cup of sparkling water or club soda for a refreshing fizz.
- Add Ice: Fill glasses with ice cubes to keep the sangria chilled and refreshing.
- Pour and Garnish: Serve the sangria in the ice-filled glasses, including some of the infused fruit, and garnish with optional apple slices, lime wedges, and mint sprigs for an attractive presentation.
- Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy this vibrant and refreshing sangria at your next gathering or relaxing moment.
Notes
- For best flavor, infuse the sangria overnight or at least 4 hours before serving.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less simple syrup according to your preference.
- Use dry white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for a crisp and light base.
- Optional garnishes like fresh mint and lime add aromatic freshness and contrast.
- To make simple syrup, dissolve equal parts sugar and water over low heat and cool before use.
- This sangria is best served chilled and consumed within 24-48 hours of preparation for optimal taste and freshness.
