Pitcher Perfect Summer Sangria Is Just 5 Steps Away

That glorious time when the sun brings along longer days, warmer nights, and the undeniable urge to picnic under its generous rays is here. But what's a summer picnic without the quintessential companion—a pitcher of sangria so perfect it deserves its own Instagram account? Crafting the ideal sangria isn't just about mixing wine and fruit; it's a balance of flavours that is often a hit or a miss. Let's dive into creating that sangria masterpiece.

The Foundation

Every great masterpiece begins with a solid foundation, and in the world of sangria, that foundation is your choice of spirits. For this summer's picnic showstopper, we're leaning towards something light, fruity, and utterly refreshing. Enter Smirnoff No. 21 Vodka, a versatile player who promises to keep things interesting without overpowering the ensemble. Imagine a splash, precisely 45 ml, to add just the right touch of spirit without steering the ship into stormy waters.

The Heart: Wine

Sangria without wine is like summer without sunshine—unthinkable. For our picnic-perfect pitcher, we're selecting a crisp, aromatic white wine, something that sings with notes of green apple, citrus, and perhaps a hint of floral. The wine is the melody of our sangria, setting the tone for what's to come. About 750 ml should do the trick, filling our pitcher with promises of laughter and conversation.

Fruits and Their Secrets

Fruits are the soul of any sangria. For a summer picnic, opt for refreshing and hydrating fruits. A mix of diced peaches for sweetness, slices of lemon and lime for a citrusy zing, and a handful of berries for depth and colour. But here’s the twist: add a few slices of cucumber for an unexpected note of freshness that reminds you of cool summer breezes.

The Spark

Every masterpiece needs that final touch—the stroke of genius that ties it all together. For our sangria, it's the bubbly spirit of soda water or, for those feeling a bit more daring, a splash of sparkling wine. It adds a fizz that tickles the nose and delights the palate, making each sip as exciting as the first. Just about 250 ml should suffice, turning our pitcher from still life into a celebration.

Bringing It All Together

In a large pitcher, combine the Smirnoff Vodka and white wine, gently stirring to mix the two. Introduce the fruits, followed by the cucumber slices. Just before heading out to your picnic, add the soda water or sparkling wine for that final fizz. Serve over ice in glasses garnished with a sprig of mint or basil for an extra layer of aroma.