This Honey Bourbon Red Sangria is bold, fruity, and just the right amount of sweet.
It’s the kind of drink that makes you want to sit back and relax, whether you’re on the patio with friends or just unwinding after a long week.
The combo of red wine, a splash of bourbon, sweet honey, fresh orange slices, and juicy pomegranate seeds is a total vibe.
I’ve made this for everything from cozy dinners to backyard BBQs, and it’s always a hit.
What You’ll Need
- 1 bottle (750ml) bold red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1 cup ice cubes
- Optional: rosemary sprigs and extra orange slices for garnish
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe feels fancy but takes no time to throw together. I love making it when I want to impress without actually doing much work.
- The bourbon gives it depth without overpowering the wine
- Honey sweetens it without being too sugary
- Pomegranate seeds are like little bursts of flavor
- You can make it ahead and it gets better with time
- It’s super customizable with whatever fruit you have
Makes: 4–6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 1–2 hours (optional but better)
Macros per serving (based on 6 servings):
Calories: 190
Carbs: 17g
Sugar: 14g
Alcohol: ~1.5oz per serving
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Red wine brings tannins and depth, while the bourbon adds a smoky, caramel note. Honey blends more smoothly than sugar and dissolves better into cold liquids. The acidity from the orange slices helps balance out the sweetness, and pomegranate seeds add texture and tartness. Letting it sit allows all those flavors to mingle and mellow together, making each sip better than the last.
Common Mistakes
- Using the wrong wine – Avoid sweet or super light reds. Stick with bold ones like Cab or Merlot.
- Not mixing the honey well – If you don’t stir enough, it’ll sit at the bottom.
- Adding ice too early – It waters it down. Add right before serving.
- Skipping the chill time – It’s drinkable right away, but chilling really brings the flavors together.
What to Serve With
- Charcuterie board with sharp cheeses and salty meats
- BBQ chicken sliders
- Roasted nuts or spiced popcorn
- Dark chocolate or berry desserts
Pro Tips
- Warm the honey for a few seconds in the microwave to help it mix easier
- Use a pitcher with a lid if chilling to keep the flavors fresh
- Add the ice last to avoid dilution
- Make it in the morning for a full-flavor sangria by the evening
- Use frozen pomegranate seeds if fresh aren’t available—they work great
Tools Needed
- Large pitcher or mixing jug
- Long spoon
- Measuring cups
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap bourbon with brandy or spiced rum
- Try maple syrup instead of honey for a cozy twist
- Use apple slices, berries, or cherries if you don’t have oranges
- Add a splash of soda water for some fizz before serving
Make Ahead Tips
Mix everything but the ice and chill for up to 24 hours. Add ice and garnishes just before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Slice the Orange
Thinly slice 1 orange into rounds.
Step 2: Add Wine to the Pitcher
Pour 1 bottle (750ml) of bold red wine into a large glass pitcher.
Step 3: Add the Bourbon
Measure and pour 1/2 cup of bourbon into the wine mixture.
Step 4: Drizzle in Honey
Add 1/4 cup honey to the mixture. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Add Fruit
Drop in the orange slices and 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds. Stir gently.
Step 6: Chill (Optional)
Cover and chill the pitcher for 1–2 hours to let the flavors blend.
Step 7: Add Ice & Serve
Just before serving, add 1 cup of ice cubes and optional rosemary or orange garnish. Pour into glasses and enjoy.
Leftovers & Storage
Store leftover sangria in the fridge in a covered pitcher for up to 3 days. The flavor gets deeper, but remove fruit after day 2 to avoid bitterness. Don’t freeze it—just enjoy it chilled.
FAQ
Can I make it without alcohol?
Yes! Use non-alcoholic red wine or pomegranate juice and skip the bourbon. Still delicious.
Is it okay to use bottled orange juice instead of fresh slices?
Fresh slices add more flavor and look prettier, but a splash of juice works in a pinch.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just use a bigger pitcher or mix in a large bowl.
What wine works best?
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or any dry, bold red wine.
Wrap-Up
This Honey Bourbon Red Sangria is a crowd-pleaser that comes together in minutes and tastes like you spent all day on it. It’s bold, fruity, and just the right kind of sweet. I hope you give it a try and let me know how it turns out for you. Leave a comment with your twist or any questions—I’d love to hear from you!
