A refreshing twist on classic sangria brings summer flavors to life in this easy-to-make cocktail.
This minted melon sangria recipe combines fresh cantaloupe, honeydew, and watermelon with crisp white wine and a splash of mint simple syrup.
The drink takes just 10 minutes to prepare and can be made ahead for parties or lazy afternoon sipping by the pool.
The natural sweetness of seasonal melons pairs perfectly with dry white wine, creating a light and fruity beverage everyone will love.
Adding fresh mint leaves gives this sangria an extra layer of cool, garden-fresh taste.
The recipe makes enough for 6-8 servings, making it great for sharing with friends at summer gatherings or barbecues.
Minted Melon Sangria Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Large pitcher (64 oz capacity)
- Wooden spoon
- Melon baller
- Wine glasses for serving
Ingredients
- 1 bottle 750ml white wine (Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1 cup honeydew melon balls
- 1 cup cantaloupe melon balls
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 cups club soda
- 1 lime sliced
- Ice cubes for serving
Instructions
- Wash and dry all fresh produce.
- Use the melon baller to scoop balls from both melons. Set aside.
- Pour in the white wine and stir until honey dissolves.
- Add melon balls and lime slices to the mixture.
- Place in refrigerator for 2-4 hours to let flavors combine.
- Pour into wine glasses and garnish with extra mint leaves.
Notes
Tasting Notes
The Minted Melon Sangria offers a bright and sweet first sip, with honeydew melon taking center stage. Fresh mint adds a cooling touch that makes this cocktail perfect for warm days.
White wine brings subtle floral notes and a light acidity that balances the natural sweetness of the fruit. The wine’s crisp character helps keep the drink from becoming too sweet.
A touch of citrus from fresh lime juice adds a zesty brightness. This tartness works with the wine to create a clean, refreshing finish.
Texture Notes:
- Smooth and light-bodied
- Small bits of fresh fruit add pleasant texture
- Mint leaves provide gentle aromatics
The drink starts sweet and ends with a crisp, clean finish. As the sangria sits, the fruit releases more flavor into the wine, making each sip more complex.
Serving the drink over ice helps maintain the ideal temperature and keeps the flavors sharp. The melting ice gradually softens the drink without making it watery.
Substitute
You can swap the melon in this sangria recipe with other fruits. Good replacements include honeydew, cantaloupe, or watermelon.
The white wine base can be changed too. Try Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Moscato instead of Chardonnay. Each wine brings its own taste to the drink.
For a non-alcoholic version, use white grape juice or sparkling apple cider. Mix these with club soda to keep the fizzy texture.
Replace the mint leaves with basil or rosemary for a different herb flavor. Fresh herbs work best, but dried herbs can work in small amounts.
The club soda can be swapped with ginger ale or lemon-lime soda for extra sweetness. Sprite or 7-Up are common choices.
Want less sugar? Use diet soda or plain sparkling water. The fruit will still add natural sweetness to the drink.
