This wine and fruit drink is a refreshing, crowd-pleasing pitcher drink that combines chilled red or white wine with a medley of fresh fruit and a touch of sweetness. It’s essentially a quick, no-fuss sangria-style beverage that lets the fruit infuse the wine with flavor as it chills. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity: you can use whatever fruit you have on hand, and the result is always a vibrant, sippable drink that’s perfect for summer gatherings, brunches, or a relaxing evening at home.
Ingredients
- 1 bottle (750 ml) red or white wine (e.g., Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, or Rosé)
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) orange juice
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) brandy or orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier) – optional
- 2–3 tablespoons (30–45 ml) honey or simple syrup, to taste
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 lime, thinly sliced
- 1 cup (150 g) strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup (150 g) fresh pineapple chunks (or peaches, apples, or berries)
- 1–2 cups (240–480 ml) cold sparkling water or club soda (optional, to top off)
- Ice cubes, for serving
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pitcher, combine the wine, orange juice, brandy (if using), and honey or simple syrup. Stir well until the sweetener is dissolved.
- Add the sliced orange, lemon, lime, strawberries, and pineapple (or other fruit) to the pitcher. Stir gently to combine.
- Refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours (or up to 24 hours) to let the flavors meld and the fruit infuse the wine. The longer it chills, the more flavorful it becomes.
- When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice. Pour the wine and fruit mixture over the ice, filling each glass about 3/4 full.
- Top each glass with a splash of sparkling water or club soda, if desired, for a little fizz.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if using, and serve immediately.
Tips
- Sweetness: The amount of honey or syrup depends on the dryness of the wine and your taste. Start with 2 tablespoons and add more after chilling if needed.
- Fruit choices: Use any combination of firm fruits – apples, pears, peaches, grapes, or berries all work well. Avoid overly soft fruits like bananas, which will turn mushy.
- Make it ahead: This drink is best made at least 2 hours ahead, but you can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. The fruit will soften but still taste great.
- No sparkling water? If you skip the sparkling water, the drink will be a bit stronger and more wine-forward – adjust the amount of wine or add more orange juice to balance.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this wine and fruit drink chilled in large wine glasses or tumblers with plenty of ice. It’s perfect alongside light appetizers like cheese and crackers, bruschetta, or a fresh green salad. For a heartier pairing, try it with grilled chicken, seafood, or a charcuterie board. It also works beautifully as a brunch beverage alongside pastries and quiche.
Variations
- White Wine Version: Use a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, and swap the orange juice for white grape juice or lemonade. Use light-colored fruits like green apples, white peaches, and grapes.
- Rosé Version: Rosé makes a lovely, delicate drink. Use strawberries, raspberries, and peaches, and add a splash of rose water for a floral note.
- Spiced Version: Add a cinnamon stick, star anise, or a few cloves to the pitcher while it chills for a warm, autumnal twist.
- Non-Alcoholic Version: Replace the wine with a non-alcoholic red or white wine, or use a combination of grape juice and sparkling water. Omit the brandy and increase the orange juice.
Storage and Reheating
This drink is best consumed within 24 hours of making it, as the fruit will continue to soften and the flavors will intensify. Store any leftovers in a sealed pitcher or container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The fruit may become mushy, but the drink will still be safe to consume. Stir before serving. Do not freeze, as the texture of the fruit will degrade. There is no reheating – serve cold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any type of wine? Yes, a medium-bodied red like Merlot or Zinfandel works well for red sangria, while a dry white like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is great for white. Avoid very tannic wines like young Cabernet Sauvignon, which can taste bitter.
How long should I let it steep? At least 2 hours is recommended, but 4–6 hours is ideal for more flavor. You can leave it overnight in the fridge, but the fruit will become softer.
Can I make this without alcohol? Absolutely! Use a non-alcoholic wine or a combination of grape juice and sparkling water. Adjust the sweetness and citrus to your liking.
Can I add other spirits? Yes, brandy, rum, or orange liqueur are classic additions. A splash of vodka also works. Start with 1/4 cup and adjust to taste.
Do I need to peel the fruit? No, citrus should be sliced with the peel on, as the oils in the peel add flavor. For other fruits, peel if the skin is tough (like pineapple) or leave it on if it’s thin (like apples or peaches).
Can I serve it immediately? You can, but it won’t have as much fruit flavor. If you’re short on time, let it sit for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, then add ice.
Related
- Is Fruit Juice Good for Hydration? Facts
- Is 100% Fruit Juice Healthy? Facts vs Myths
- What Is Lunch Dinner Called? Mealtime Names
More recipes to cook
Safety notes: safe minimum internal temperatures from USDA FSIS; raw and undercooked fish guidance from the U.S. FDA. Food safety notes
Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it (corrections policy).