Sangria just feels like a celebration in a glass, doesn’t it? This Blood Orange Pomegranate Sangria is bold, juicy, and super refreshing.
The deep red color is stunning, and the combo of Merlot, tart pomegranate juice, and sweet blood oranges is just chef’s kiss.
It’s great for a weekend hangout, holiday table, or anytime you want to impress with something that looks fancy but is seriously easy.
🛒 What You’ll Need
- 1 bottle Merlot (750 ml)
- 1 cup pomegranate juice
- ½ cup pomegranate arils
- 2 blood oranges, sliced
- 2 tbsp sugar (optional, depending on sweetness preference)
- ½ cup orange liqueur (like Cointreau or Triple Sec)
- 1 cup sparkling water (for topping off just before serving)
- Ice (to serve)
Why I Love This Recipe
This sangria recipe is one of my go-to drinks for winter and early spring. It’s festive without being fussy, and the flavors are so rich and fruity without going overboard. I made this for a dinner party once, and people were still texting me a week later asking for the recipe. That’s when I knew it was a keeper.
- It’s super simple—basically pour, slice, stir, chill.
- The colors are gorgeous. That deep red? Stunning.
- You can make it ahead of time (and it gets better as it sits!).
- It’s not overly sweet—just balanced.
👩🍳 Tools You’ll Need
- Large glass pitcher
- Wooden spoon or stir stick
- Citrus knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Ice cube tray (optional)
- Wine glasses or mason jars for serving
🍷 Pro Tips
- Chill everything first so your sangria is cold without needing too much ice (which can water it down).
- Don’t skip the blood oranges. They give a unique flavor and color. Regular oranges are okay, but the taste won’t be the same.
- Make it a few hours ahead if you can. The fruit soaks up flavor and it all comes together beautifully.
- Use a wine you like. Merlot is smooth and fruity, but don’t use one you wouldn’t drink on its own.
- Serve with a spoon to get that fruit in the glass—it’s part of the experience.
🍊 Substitutions & Variations
- No blood oranges? Use Cara Cara oranges or regular oranges, but try to get sweet, juicy ones.
- Want it sweeter? Add more sugar, honey, or a splash of simple syrup.
- Want it stronger? Add a splash of brandy.
- No pomegranate juice? Try cranberry juice as a sub.
- Make it bubbly! Use Prosecco instead of Merlot for a sparkling twist.
🧊 Make-Ahead Tips
- You can make the sangria up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, it’s even better that way.
- Don’t add the sparkling water or ice until just before serving so it stays fizzy and fresh.
🍷 How to Make Blood Orange Pomegranate Sangria
Step 1: Slice the Blood Oranges
Instruction: Wash and thinly slice your blood oranges into rounds. Set a few pretty slices aside for garnish later.
Step 2: Add Fruit to Pitcher
Instruction: Add the blood orange slices and pomegranate arils to a large glass pitcher.
Step 3: Pour in Merlot
Instruction: Pour the full bottle of Merlot into the pitcher over the fruit.
Step 4: Add Juice, Liqueur, and Sugar
Instruction: Add the pomegranate juice, orange liqueur, and sugar (if using). Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Chill
Instruction: Cover and refrigerate the sangria for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours.
Step 6: Serve Over Ice with Sparkling Water
Instruction: When ready to serve, pour over ice, top with sparkling water, and garnish with reserved blood orange slices.
🥶 Leftovers & Storage
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- The fruit will keep infusing the wine, so it may taste even richer.
- If adding sparkling water later, add it right before drinking to keep the fizz.
🍷 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Merlot is low in tannins, which makes it smooth and lets the fruit shine.
- Blood oranges and pomegranate both have bright acids, which balance the wine and create that refreshing zip.
- Letting it sit allows osmosis to do its thing—the fruit flavors blend into the wine, and vice versa.
❌ Common Mistakes
- Using a dry red with high tannins. This can make the sangria bitter.
- Not chilling it long enough. Warm sangria doesn’t hit the same.
- Adding ice too early. It waters down the flavor fast.
🍽️ What to Serve With Sangria
- Charcuterie boards with salty meats and cheeses
- Tapas-style appetizers like olives, almonds, or bruschetta
- Grilled chicken or pork
- Fresh salads with citrus or berries
- Dark chocolate desserts (SO good with the wine!)
❓ FAQ
Can I use white wine instead?
Yes! Try it with a dry white like Sauvignon Blanc or even sparkling wine for a lighter twist.
What if I can’t find blood oranges?
Use any sweet, juicy orange you can find. Add a few raspberries for color if you miss that deep red tone.
Can I skip the liqueur?
You can, but it adds a nice kick. Just add more juice if you want it alcohol-free.
How long does it last?
About 3 days in the fridge. It gets stronger and fruitier over time.
💬 Final Thoughts
This Blood Orange Pomegranate Sangria is just one of those recipes that makes any gathering feel a little more special. It’s easy, stunning, and so full of flavor. If you give it a try, drop a comment and let me know how it turned out—or share your own twist on it. Cheers! 🥂
