Berry Sangria
It’s been too long since we made a sangria around here! And since rain seems to be evading us here in California, all the plants are blossoming and saying that spring is sprung! Fingers crossed for more rain, but let’s enjoy this spring berry sangria no matter the weather!
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Spring Berry Sangria
I always think of summer when talking about berries. I think it’s because we get so many blueberries and blackberries in late May, early June on the Fresno Fruit Trail!
When is berry season?
So, berries actually come into season in the spring (mid-late depending on the variety). While many berries are available into early summer, the temps are usually getting too warm in most places, so they come from further away.
Soo other spring foods and seasonal produce here.
Should berries be organic?
While we try to get primarily organic produce (and local as much as possible), I understand that it’s difficult to do so. There are certain foods, however, that should be consumed organically more than others – berries is one of them.
Since berries have no outer peel or skin to protect them, and because they’re so delicate, everything sprayed on the crops goes right into the berries. So as much as possible, I encourage you to get organic berries.
How to Store Berries?
Berries are often one of the quickest things to go bad in homes. Part of the reason is that berries do not ripen after they’ve been picked, so once they’re picked, they begin their path toward unhappiness (I couldn’t think of a better word there).
They’re also super easy for mold to grow. To slow this down, I have two things I do.
First, don’t wash your berries until you’re ready to eat them. The moisture creates a happy moldy space and if you’re wondering when to throw away food, mold is a big no-no.
Second, when I get berries home from the market, I go through them. First I pull out any that have gone bad, usually opting to cut off moldy or soft spots and quickly consume the remainder.
Berries that are blemish free are the last to be eaten as they have the longest shelf life!
What goes into a berry sangria?
We used strawberries and raspberries here, but you can use whatever berries you like. Because it’s spring, a lovely rosé wine is just a fun treat – and so color appropriate!
Not all sangrias have a spirit mixed in, but the addition of amaretto here is so delectable, you can’t skip it! Almonds and fruit just taste so good together!
How do you make a sparkling sangria?
If you like a little fizz, want your sangria to last a little longer among friends, or just want a lighter drink, opt for a sparkling sangria.
Right when you serve it, top with club soda. The fizziness will sit on top for a bit, making it even more fun to drink.
More Sangria Recipes
If you love sangria as much as me, you’ll want to try these sangria recipes for all year round!
We served this strawberry sangria and this cantaloupe sangria at our wedding. This cherry sangria was a very close contender as well!
In the early to mid summer, our plum pinot grigio sangria, nectarine sparkling rose sangria, kiwi raspberry sangria, and, my personal favorite, this watermelon sangria are each very fabulous!
In colder months, my winter sangria is a surefire hit, as is this pomegranate Christmas Sangria!
Year round, my chardonnay brunch sangria is my most popular by far (and for good reason) and this raspberry thyme sangria (made with frozen berries)!
You’ll also want to check out these spring recipes, these fresh strawberry cocktail recipes, and this piece of sustainable alcohol brands!
More Berry Recipes
Looking for more strawberry recipes? Try this strawberry cilantro salsa recipe with fruit with blue corn chips and this strawberry compote – perfect in an ice cream sundae. If you’re up for a bit of cooking, this strawberry thyme jam is quite epic!
Love the tart sweetness of raspberries? You’ll love this raspberry margarita as well as my Sprite Cocktail made with fresh raspberries!
SPRING BERRY SANGRIA
Ingredients
- 1 750ml bottle rose wine
- ⅓ cup amaretto
- 16 ounces strawberries sliced
- 8 ounces raspberries
- Optional: ice, club soda for serving
Instructions
- Pour the wine and amaretto into a large pitcher. Add the strawberries and raspberries. Stir well, but gently to prevent breaking up too many berries.
- Refrigerate at least one hour before serving, until well chilled. The sangria can be served straight up or over ice. It can also be topped with a splash of club soda when serving if you prefer a sparkling sangria.
