This sangria is a little bit cozy, a little bit fancy, and a whole lot delicious.
Maple syrup and figs bring a sweet, earthy vibe.
Red wine and apple brandy make it feel warm and deep. Rosemary? It adds just the right herbal kick.
It’s one of those drinks you make once and suddenly it becomes your signature.
Perfect for fall gatherings, slow weekends, or a late afternoon porch hang.
What You’ll Need
- 1 bottle dry red wine (750ml)
- 4 fresh figs, quartered
- 3 tbsp maple syrup (pure)
- 1/4 cup apple brandy
- 1 small apple, thinly sliced
- 2–3 fresh rosemary sprigs
- 1/2 cup cold club soda (added before serving)
- Ice (for serving)
Why I Love This Recipe
Maple Fig Red Sangria reminds me of fall nights by the firepit with friends. It’s simple, beautiful, and always impresses—without being fussy. The figs soak up the wine and get super flavorful. The maple syrup adds warmth without being overly sweet. And the rosemary? It makes it feel like something you’d get at a farm-to-table spot.
- Sweet but not sugary
- Great for batching ahead
- Looks gorgeous with no effort
- Pairs well with snacks or full meals
- Seasonal and earthy with a little twist
Makes: 6 servings
Time: 10 minutes prep + 1–4 hours chilling
Macros per serving (approx):
Calories: 160
Carbs: 17g
Sugar: 11g
Alcohol: 13g
Fat: 0g
Protein: 0g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The wine gives body and structure. Figs soak in the wine and release natural sweetness and texture. Maple syrup is a low-glycemic sweetener that blends smoothly without overpowering. Apple brandy adds depth and fruitiness that bridges the fig and wine flavors. Club soda balances it all out with a little fizz, keeping it light.
Common Mistakes
- Using overripe figs: They’ll fall apart and make the drink mushy.
- Not letting it chill long enough: You need at least an hour for the flavors to meld.
- Adding club soda too early: It’ll go flat. Always add just before serving.
- Choosing the wrong wine: Stick to dry red like a Tempranillo, Merlot, or Garnacha.
What to Serve With
- Aged cheeses like manchego or gouda
- Charcuterie (prosciutto, salami)
- Herbed flatbreads or focaccia
- Roasted nuts
- Dark chocolate squares
Tools Needed
- Large pitcher or jug
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Small liquid measuring cup
- Stirring spoon
- Wine opener
- Glasses for serving
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap apple brandy for pear brandy or orange liqueur
- Use honey instead of maple syrup (start with 2 tbsp)
- Try dried figs if fresh aren’t available—rehydrate in warm water
- Add cinnamon stick for a spiced version
- Use sparkling red wine and skip the club soda
Make Ahead Tips
- You can mix everything but the club soda up to 24 hours ahead
- Keep it chilled and tightly covered
- Add the club soda and ice just before serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Fruit
Slice 4 fresh figs into quarters and thinly slice 1 small apple.
Step 2: Add Wine and Brandy to Pitcher
In a large pitcher, pour in 1 bottle (750ml) of dry red wine and 1/4 cup of apple brandy.
Step 3: Add Figs, Apples, Maple Syrup, and Rosemary
Add the quartered figs, sliced apples, 3 tbsp of maple syrup, and 2–3 rosemary sprigs into the wine mixture.
Step 4: Stir and Chill
Stir the mixture gently with a spoon to combine. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, up to 4 hours.
Step 5: Finish with Club Soda and Ice
Just before serving, pour in 1/2 cup cold club soda and stir gently. Add ice to serving glasses and pour the sangria over.
Leftovers & Storage
Store leftover sangria in the fridge, covered, for up to 2 days. The fruit will continue to soften, but the flavor gets deeper. Don’t store with ice—only add that right before serving. If it starts to lose fizz, top with a little fresh club soda.
Conclusion
This Maple Fig Red Sangria is one of those drinks that feels like a treat but comes together so easily. It’s perfect for slow afternoons, dinner parties, or when you just want something special in your glass. Try it, snap a pic, and let me know how yours turned out in the comments!
