If you’re looking for a drink that’s fruity, refreshing, and perfect for everyone at the table, this Sangria Mocktail is it. It’s packed with vibrant fruits, a splash of fizz, and just the right amount of sweetness. I’ve made this countless times for summer get-togethers, and it’s always a hit. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, a barbecue, or just treating yourself on a sunny afternoon, this mocktail brings a little celebration to every sip.
Sangria Mocktail
Ingredients
You’ll need:
(Serves about 6 | Prep time: 10 minutes | Chill time: 1–2 hours)
- 2 cups (480ml) non-alcoholic red wine (or use red grape juice)
- 1 cup (240ml) orange juice
- 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup (60ml) simple syrup (or honey/agave, to taste)
- 1 cup (240ml) sparkling water (or club soda)
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 cup (150g) mixed berries (like strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
- Ice cubes, for serving
- Optional: a sprig of mint for garnish
Equipment:
- Large pitcher
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Wine glasses or highball glasses
Method
- In a large pitcher, pour in the non-alcoholic red wine, orange juice, and lemon juice. Give it a good stir.
- Stir in the simple syrup. Taste and adjust the sweetness—some like it a little tarter, others a little sweeter. (Tip: I like to start with less syrup and add more if needed.)
- Slice the orange and lemon into thin rounds. Toss them into the pitcher along with the berries.
- Cover the pitcher and let it chill in the fridge for at least 1–2 hours. This lets all those fruity flavors mingle together beautifully.
- When you’re ready to serve, pour in the sparkling water and give it a gentle stir. You want to keep those bubbles nice and lively!
- Fill glasses with a few ice cubes, pour over the Sangria Mocktail, and garnish with extra fruit slices and a sprig of mint if you like.
Tips for the Best Sangria Mocktail
- Chill everything first: If you chill the juices, wine, and sparkling water ahead of time, your mocktail will stay cold longer without watering down.
- Use ripe fruit: Ripe fruit will naturally add more sweetness and flavor.
- Don’t rush the chilling: Letting it sit in the fridge really helps the flavors blend. If you’re short on time, even an hour makes a big difference.
- Add sparkling water last: Always add it right before serving so it stays fizzy and fresh.
Make-Ahead & Storage Notes
- You can make the base (everything except the sparkling water) up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge.
- Once mixed with sparkling water, it’s best enjoyed within a few hours.
- Store leftovers (without ice) in the fridge for up to 3 days. The fruits might get a little softer, but it’ll still taste great.
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
Substitutions:
- Non-alcoholic red wine → Red grape juice
- Simple syrup → Honey or agave syrup
- Sparkling water → Ginger ale for a bit of spice, or lemon-lime soda for extra citrusy sweetness
Fun Variations:
Peachy Sangria Mocktail
- Swap the orange juice for peach nectar.
- Add fresh peach slices instead of (or along with) berries.
Berry Sangria Mocktail
- Load up with strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries.
- A splash of cranberry juice adds an extra berry punch.
Tropical Sangria Mocktail
- Mix in pineapple chunks, mango slices, and use passionfruit juice instead of orange juice for a sunny, tropical twist.
I thought I’d share one of my favorite tweaks: sometimes I add a little splash of pomegranate juice for a deeper, richer flavor—especially nice in the fall.
Common Questions
Can I make it ahead of time?
Definitely! Just leave out the sparkling water until you’re about to serve. The longer it chills, the better it tastes.
How long does it last?
Up to 3 days in the fridge if you store it in a sealed container. But honestly, it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I use frozen fruit?
Absolutely. Frozen fruit works great and even helps keep the drink cold without watering it down.
How can I make it less sweet?
Start with less simple syrup and taste as you go. You can always add more if needed. Or use a natural sweetener like honey or agave.
Is it fancy enough for formal events?
Oh, for sure! Serve it in nice glasses with beautiful fruit garnishes, and it’ll look just as elegant as any cocktail.
What’s a good garnish?
Citrus slices, berries, and a fresh mint or basil sprig really dress it up. Plus, they smell amazing when you lift the glass!
What to Serve with Sangria Mocktail
This fruity drink pairs well with all kinds of foods. Here are a few ideas:
Grilled Vegetables
The smoky, charred flavors are so good next to the sweet, juicy mocktail.
Spicy Tapas
Think little bites like spicy shrimp, patatas bravas, or stuffed peppers. The mocktail cools the heat perfectly.
Light Desserts
Fruit tarts, lemon bars, or a scoop of sorbet make a sweet ending without feeling too heavy.
—
This Sangria Mocktail is one of those recipes that just feels like a party in a glass. It’s colorful, festive, and so easy to make your own. Whether you’re sipping it on a lazy afternoon or raising a glass at a big celebration, it’s a drink everyone can enjoy. Cheers!
