Soldiers’ sangria gained fame as a refreshing drink among military members stationed in Spain during the mid-20th century. This white wine version offers a lighter twist on the classic red wine sangria, perfect for warm spring and summer gatherings.
The Soldiers’ Sangria Blanco mixes crisp white wine with fresh citrus fruits, apples, and a splash of brandy to create a bright, easy-drinking cocktail that serves 6-8 people in under 10 minutes. The recipe traces back to American military bases near Madrid where service members adapted local drinks using available ingredients.
The drink became popular at base parties and gatherings, spreading across military communities before making its way to civilian celebrations. Its simple preparation and crowd-pleasing taste make it an excellent choice for outdoor events and casual entertaining.
Soldiers’ Sangria Blanco Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Large pitcher (2-quart capacity)
- Sharp knife
- Cutting Board
- Long-handled spoon
- Wine glasses for serving
Ingredients
- 2 bottles dry white wine Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
- 1 cup brandy
- 1/2 cup triple sec
- 2 peaches sliced
- 2 green apples diced
- 1 cup green grapes halved
- 2 limes thinly sliced
- 1 cup lemon-lime soda
- Ice cubes for serving
Instructions
- Wash and slice all fruits into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Add fruit to the pitcher.
- Pour white wine, brandy, and triple sec over the fruit.
- Stir gently with a long-handled spoon.
- Place the pitcher in the refrigerator for 4-6 hours.
- Add the lemon-lime soda just before serving. This keeps the drink fizzy.
- Pour into wine glasses filled with ice. Add some of the soaked fruit to each glass.
Notes
Must Have Ingredients
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Tasting Notes
The Soldiers’ Sangria Blanco opens with bright citrus notes of fresh orange and lemon. A gentle sweetness from white grape juice mingles with crisp white wine undertones.
Primary flavors:
- Orange zest
- Lemon
- White grape
- Light apple
- Fresh mint
The texture is light and refreshing with tiny bubbles from club soda adding a pleasant fizz. The drink’s color is a pale golden straw with hints of green from the mint garnish.
Sweet and tart elements stay balanced throughout each sip. The white wine base provides structure while fresh fruit adds natural sweetness without becoming syrupy.
The finish is clean and crisp with lingering citrus. Mint leaves create a cooling sensation that makes this sangria perfect for warm weather enjoyment.
Suggested serving temperature: 38-45°F (3-7°C)
Food pairings that work well:
- Grilled seafood
- Light pasta dishes
- Fresh fruit
- Mild cheeses
- Spanish tapas
Substitute
You can make changes to this white sangria recipe based on what you have available.
White grape juice works well instead of white wine for a non-alcoholic version.
Replace peach schnapps with peach nectar or peach juice. For a different flavor, try apricot nectar or mango juice.
Fresh citrus fruits can be swapped around.
Lemons, limes, or tangerines work great in place of oranges. Mix and match based on what’s in season.
Alternative sweeteners:
- Honey
- Agave nectar
- Simple syrup
- Stevia
For the bubbles, these options work nicely:
- Club soda
- Ginger ale
- Sprite
- Sparkling water
Different white fruits can be used for garnish: apples, pears, or white grapes.
Fresh mint leaves add a nice touch too.
The drink tastes best when made with Spanish white wine.
Other dry white wines like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc make good stand-ins.
