If you’re looking for a refreshingly vibrant drink that perfectly balances sweet, floral, and herbal flavors, this Strawberry Basil Rosé Sangria Recipe is going to be your new weekend go-to. Imagine juicy strawberries mingling with fragrant basil leaves, all swimming in the crisp, light notes of rosé wine and topped off with bubbly club soda for that perfect fizz. It’s an irresistible crowd pleaser that feels both elegantly simple and delightfully complex in flavor—a drink that turns any gathering into a celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this sangria lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in building layers of fresh, vibrant taste and dazzling color, transforming a few pantry staples into something truly special.
- Rosé wine: The foundation of the sangria, choosing a dry, fruity rosé creates a delicate and aromatic base.
- Sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to balance tartness and enhance the strawberry flavor.
- Strawberries: Fresh and ripe, they provide juicy bursts of flavor and beautiful red hues.
- Basil leaves: Fresh basil infuses the sangria with an unexpected herbal brightness that complements the fruit beautifully.
- Club soda: Adds a delightful sparkle and lightness, making this drink refreshingly easy to sip.
How to Make Strawberry Basil Rosé Sangria Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Syrup
Start by dividing about one-third of your strawberries, removing the stems, and quartering them for cooking. Combine these strawberries with the sugar and a splash of water in a small saucepan. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat and let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring now and then. This creates a luscious strawberry syrup that will be the heart of your sangria’s flavor. Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve, pressing the strawberries to extract every bit of liquid. Set this syrup aside to cool slightly before the next step.
Step 2: Slice the Remaining Strawberries
While the syrup cools, slice the remaining strawberries to add fresh texture to the sangria. If you want to impress your guests, try cutting the sliced strawberries into cute heart shapes—it’s a fun touch that adds visual charm without any extra fuss.
Step 3: Build the Sangria
In a large pitcher, combine the sliced strawberries, fresh basil leaves, the cooled strawberry syrup, and the entire bottle of rosé. Give everything a good stir to meld the flavors together. Pop the pitcher into the fridge and let it chill for at least two hours. This step is crucial as it allows the basil and strawberries to infuse the rosé, creating a harmonious blend that tastes even better with time.
Step 4: Add the Final Fizzy Touch
Just before serving, stir in the club soda for that perfect sparkle. The bubbly finish lifts the sangria’s flavors and makes each sip feel light and refreshing. Serve immediately and watch everyone delight in the combination of sweet, herbal, and effervescent goodness.
How to Serve Strawberry Basil Rosé Sangria Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your sangria is where you can add a personal flair that elevates the experience. Consider fresh basil sprigs and whole strawberries on the rim or floating in the glass—they add a pop of color and aroma that invites guests to savor every sip. For a fun twist, a thin lemon or lime wheel adds brightness and balance.
Side Dishes
This sangria pairs wonderfully with light and fresh dishes. Think grilled chicken salads, seafood tapas, or even a delightful cheese platter with soft goat cheese, creamy brie, and crunchy crackers. The fruit and herb notes in the sangria complement Mediterranean and summer-inspired fare beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, serve your sangria in clear glass pitchers or wine carafes to showcase the gorgeous red and green hues from the strawberries and basil. If you’re hosting outdoors, fill glasses with ice cubes that have frozen tiny basil leaves or strawberry slices inside—this not only keeps the drink cold but also adds a charming visual element.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any sangria left, transfer it back to the pitcher, cover it tightly, and keep it refrigerated. It’s best enjoyed within 24 hours to maintain the freshness of the fruit and basil. Over time, the basil flavor will intensify, and the fruit might become mushy, so enjoying it sooner rather than later is ideal.
Freezing
Because of its fresh ingredients and effervescence, freezing rosé sangria is not recommended. The texture and flavor of the fruits and herbs can degrade upon thawing, and the fizzy club soda will lose its sparkle. It’s best to make this sangria fresh for the best experience.
Reheating
This sangria is designed to be served chilled and fresh, so reheating is not necessary. If you want a twist, you can gently warm it (without the club soda) for a mulled wine-inspired drink during colder months, but it won’t have the same bright, fresh qualities as when served cold.
FAQs
Can I use sparkling rosé instead of flat rosé?
You can, but be mindful that the sangria will become very bubbly once you add the club soda. If you love fizz, go for it, but if you prefer a lighter sparkle, stick with flat rosé and add club soda at serving time.
How long should I let the sangria chill?
At least two hours in the refrigerator is ideal to let flavors meld and deepen, but if you can wait longer—up to 6 hours—the taste will be even richer and more infused.
Can I make this sangria with other fruits?
Absolutely! While strawberries and basil are the stars here, you can experiment by adding peaches, raspberries, or even citrus slices. Just adjust the sweetness to balance out the tartness of any additional fruit.
Is it possible to make this recipe non-alcoholic?
Yes! Substitute the rosé with sparkling grape juice or a flavored sparkling water, and keep the fresh ingredients. It makes a wonderful mocktail with all the same summery vibes.
What type of basil works best?
Sweet basil is preferred for its mild, slightly peppery aroma that pairs beautifully with strawberries. Avoid Thai basil or other varieties with strong anise or cinnamon notes for this recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Basil Rosé Sangria Recipe is an absolute triumph when it comes to simple, stunning refreshing drinks. Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or entertaining friends on a sunny afternoon, this sangria delivers gorgeous flavors and effortless charm. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again when you want something special and satisfying in a glass.
Print
Strawberry Basil Rosé Sangria Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Spanish
Description
A refreshing and delightful Strawberry Sangria combining fresh strawberries, aromatic basil, and a splash of rosé wine, perfectly balanced with homemade strawberry syrup and fizzy club soda. Ideal for warm days and casual gatherings, this sangria offers a fruity twist on the classic Spanish beverage, chilled to perfection for a light and invigorating experience.
Ingredients
Syrup and Fruit
- 1 750ml bottle rosé wine
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 pounds strawberries, divided
- 1/2 cup loose basil leaves
- 7.5 ounces club soda
- 1/2 cup water (for syrup)
Instructions
- Prepare Strawberry Syrup: Divide out about one-third of the strawberries, removing the stems and quarter-cutting them. Place the cut strawberries, sugar, and 1/2 cup of water into a small saucepan.
- Cook Syrup: Bring the saucepan to a boil over medium-high heat. Let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl, pressing the strawberries with the back of a spoon to extract all liquid. Set the syrup aside to cool slightly.
- Slice Remaining Strawberries: Slice the remaining strawberries for garnish and mixing. (For an extra touch, create strawberry hearts by carefully slicing as preferred.)
- Combine in Pitcher: In a large pitcher, add the sliced strawberries, basil leaves, cooled strawberry syrup, and rosé wine. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours to chill and let flavors meld.
- Serve: Just before serving, stir in the club soda for a refreshing fizz. Serve immediately over ice if desired. Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Sangria!
Notes
- For best flavor, chill the sangria for at least two hours or overnight.
- To make strawberry hearts, slice the strawberries vertically and trim the top edges to form a heart shape.
- Use fresh basil leaves for a bright herbal note; mint can be substituted for a different twist.
- Adjust sugar quantity according to your preferred sweetness.
- This sangria is best consumed within 24 hours of preparation for optimal freshness.
