Description
Watermelon Sangria is the ultimate summer refresher—light, juicy, and kissed with citrus. It’s made with sweet watermelon, Moscato wine, and a splash of vodka and triple sec for a boozy, fruit-packed pitcher that’s perfect for brunches, BBQs, and laid-back afternoons. Easy to make, beautiful to serve, and endlessly customizable, this drink is your go-to for warm-weather get-togethers.
Ingredients
2 cups fresh watermelon, cubed or blended into juice
1 bottle (750 ml) Moscato wine, chilled
½ cup vodka (plain or citrus-flavored)
¼ cup triple sec (orange liqueur)
1 orange, thinly sliced
1 lime, thinly sliced
1 lemon, thinly sliced (optional)
1 cup soda water or lemon-lime soda (optional, for fizz)
Ice cubes
Fresh mint leaves (optional garnish)
Instructions
Prep the Fruit:
Cut the watermelon into cubes or blend it into juice. Strain the juice if you prefer it smooth. Thinly slice the citrus fruits and remove any seeds.Mix the Sangria:
In a large pitcher, combine the watermelon (cubes or juice), Moscato wine, vodka, and triple sec. Add the orange, lime, and lemon slices. Stir gently to combine.Chill:
Cover and refrigerate the sangria for at least 1 hour (or up to 6 hours) to let the flavors blend beautifully.
Finish and Serve:
Just before serving, add soda water or lemon-lime soda if you want some fizz. Fill glasses with ice, pour in the sangria, and add a few pieces of fruit to each glass. Garnish with fresh mint or a small wedge of watermelon.
Notes
Make it sweeter: Add a splash of simple syrup or honey if your watermelon isn’t super sweet.
Make ahead: Mix everything except the soda water and mint, and refrigerate up to 6 hours. Add bubbles and garnish just before serving.
Frozen twist: Blend half the watermelon with wine and ice for a frozen sangria slushie.
Zero-proof version: Skip the alcohol and use sparkling white grape juice for a family-friendly mocktail.
Use ripe watermelon: It makes a big difference in flavor! Look for one that feels heavy and has a deep hollow sound when tapped.