Pomegranate sangria brings a bright pop of color and sweet-tart flavor to any gathering.
This easy recipe combines red wine, pomegranate juice, fresh fruit, and a splash of brandy to create a festive cocktail that serves 6-8 guests.
The deep ruby hue makes this drink perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or special occasions.
Its refreshing taste pairs well with both light appetizers and hearty main courses.
Make this sangria up to 24 hours ahead to let the flavors blend together.
The fruit soaks up the wine and creates an extra treat to enjoy once the glass is empty.
Pomegranate Bliss Sangria Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Large glass pitcher (64 oz capacity)
- Long wooden spoon for stirring
- Wine glasses for serving
Ingredients
- 1 bottle 750ml dry red wine (Rioja or Tempranillo work best)
- 2 cups pure pomegranate juice
- 1/2 cup brandy
- 1/3 cup triple sec
- 1 orange sliced
- 1 apple cored and diced
- 1 cup pomegranate arils
- 2 cups cold club soda
- Ice for serving
- Optional: Fresh mint sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- Wash and slice the orange into thin rounds. Core and dice the apple into 1/2-inch cubes.
- Add the orange slices, diced apple, and pomegranate arils to the pitcher.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 8 hours to let the flavors blend.
- Just before serving, add the club soda and stir gently.
- Fill wine glasses with ice and pour the sangria. Make sure to include some fruit in each glass.
Notes
Tasting Notes
This sangria offers a bright, sweet-tart flavor profile that balances fresh fruit with crisp wine notes. The pomegranate juice adds a rich ruby color and natural sweetness without being too heavy.
Fresh citrus from the orange slices brings a zesty punch, while green apple adds subtle crispness.
The red wine base creates a smooth, medium-bodied texture that carries the fruit flavors nicely.
Primary Flavors:
- Pomegranate (sweet-tart)
- Orange (bright citrus)
- Green apple (crisp)
- Red wine (smooth)
The drink starts sweet on the front of the tongue and finishes with a gentle wine tannin.
Its refreshing nature makes it perfect for warm weather gatherings.
At 8-10% alcohol content, this sangria drinks easier than straight wine while maintaining complexity. The fruit infusion time creates deeper flavors without masking the wine’s character.
Serving Temperature: Best enjoyed well-chilled at 45-50°F (7-10°C)
A light effervescence from the added club soda lifts the flavors and creates a pleasant mouthfeel. The garnish of fresh mint adds an aromatic touch that enhances each sip.
Substitutes
Can’t find pomegranates? Use cranberry juice instead. The tart flavor matches well with the other ingredients in this sangria recipe.
Replace red wine with white wine for a lighter drink. Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc work great in this recipe.
Other fruit swaps include:
- Blackberries instead of pomegranate seeds
- Orange slices for apple slices
- Peaches in place of pears
No triple sec? Try these options:
- Cointreau
- Grand Marnier
- Orange juice mixed with simple syrup
Make it alcohol-free by using grape juice instead of wine. Add sparkling water or ginger ale for fizz.
Skip the brandy and add an extra splash of wine. The drink will be less strong but still tasty.
For a different twist, swap club soda with:
- Sprite or 7-Up
- Ginger beer
- Prosecco
- Tonic water
Need sugar alternatives? Use:
- Honey
- Agave nectar
- Maple syrup
- Stevia
