Sangria is a refreshing and flavorful drink that is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue, a dinner party, or a cozy night in. And one of the best things about sangria is that it can be made with a variety of different wines, including Merlot. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of making a delicious Merlot sangria that is sure to impress your guests.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
To make Merlot sangria, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 bottle of Merlot wine
- 1 cup of orange juice
- 1 cup of brandy
- 1/4 cup of sugar
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 lime, sliced
- 1 apple, diced
- 1 cup of club soda
Step 2: Prepare the Fruit
Wash and slice the orange, lemon, and lime into thin rounds. Dice the apple into small pieces.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large pitcher, combine the Merlot wine, orange juice, brandy, and sugar. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved. Add the sliced fruit and diced apple to the pitcher and mix well. Cover the pitcher with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible.
Step 4: Add the Club Soda
Before serving, add the club soda to the pitcher and stir gently. This will give the sangria a little bit of fizz and make it extra refreshing.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Pour the Merlot sangria into glasses filled with ice and garnish with a slice of fruit. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips and Tricks:
- For a sweeter sangria, you can increase the amount of sugar in the recipe.
- If you prefer a stronger sangria, you can add more brandy or even a splash of rum.
- Experiment with different types of fruit to find your favorite combination. Some great options include strawberries, peaches, and grapes.
- To make your sangria even more special, consider adding a cinnamon stick or a sprig of fresh mint to the pitcher.
In conclusion, making Merlot sangria is easy and fun. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can create a delicious and refreshing drink that is sure to impress your guests. So why not try making your own Merlot sangria today?
