Orange wine sangria is a delightful and refreshing twist on traditional sangria. It is made with orange wine, which is a type of wine made from white wine grapes fermented with their skins, giving it a beautiful orange hue and unique flavor profile. The addition of fresh fruits, spices, and other ingredients adds depth and complexity to this delicious drink.
To make orange wine sangria, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 bottle of orange wine: Orange wine can be found at specialty wine shops or online. It is important to choose a high-quality orange wine that suits your taste preferences. Some popular options include skin-fermented white wines such as Pinot Gris or Muscat.
– 1 pear: Choose a ripe pear and roughly dice it into small pieces. The pear adds a subtle sweetness and texture to the sangria.
– 1 orange: Slice the orange into thin rounds. The orange slices not only add flavor but also provide a beautiful visual element to the sangria.
– Honey syrup: To make the honey syrup, combine equal parts honey and warm water in a small saucepan. Stir until the honey dissolves completely. This syrup adds a touch of sweetness and balances out the flavors of the sangria.
– Brandy: Brandy is a common ingredient in sangria and adds a rich and boozy kick. Add a splash or two of brandy to enhance the overall taste of the sangria.
– Pear juice: Pear juice complements the flavors of the diced pear and adds a smooth and fruity element to the sangria. You can use store-bought pear juice or make your own by juicing fresh pears.
– Toasted spices: To add warmth and complexity to the sangria, toast some spices before adding them to the pitcher. Cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and star anise are great options. Toast the spices in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, then let them cool before using.
– Tarragon sprigs: Tarragon is an herb that pairs well with the flavors of orange and pear. Add a few sprigs of fresh tarragon to the sangria for a subtle herbal note.
Once you have gathered all the ingredients, it's time to assemble the sangria. In a large pitcher, combine the diced pear, orange slices, honey syrup, brandy, pear juice, and the entire bottle of orange wine. Stir gently to mix all the ingredients together.
Next, add the toasted spices (once cooled) and tarragon sprigs to the pitcher. These ingredients will infuse the sangria with their flavors as it chills in the refrigerator. Cover the pitcher and let the sangria sit in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 4-6 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
When you're ready to serve, give the sangria a gentle stir to incorporate any settled ingredients. You can serve it over ice in individual glasses, garnished with a fresh sprig of tarragon or an orange slice.
Orange wine sangria is a versatile drink that can be enjoyed year-round. Its vibrant colors and complex flavors make it a perfect choice for parties, gatherings, or simply a relaxing evening at home. Cheers to trying something new and enjoying the deliciousness of orange wine sangria!