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Flavorful Smoky Blackberry Bourbon Sangria

smoky blackberry bourbon sangria - featured image

A smoky bourbon sangria with fresh blackberries, red wine, and a hint of smoked maple syrup, perfect for Halloween parties and cozy autumn evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups (225g) fresh or frozen blackberries
  • 1 cup (240 ml) smoky bourbon (e.g., Maker’s Mark or Bulleit Bourbon)
  • 1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine (e.g., Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, recommended Apothic Red)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) smoked maple syrup (or regular maple syrup)
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 medium orange, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) club soda or sparkling water, chilled
  • Ice cubes as needed
  • Optional: fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for garnish
  • Optional: cinnamon stick for chilling

Instructions

  1. Rinse the blackberries gently under cold water and pat dry. Slice the orange into thin rounds, removing any seeds. Set aside.
  2. In a large pitcher, pour in 1 cup (240 ml) of bourbon and 2 tablespoons (30 ml) smoked maple syrup. Stir gently to combine until syrup dissolves.
  3. Add the entire 750 ml bottle of red wine and ¼ cup (60 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir gently but thoroughly to blend all liquids.
  4. Drop in the blackberries and orange slices. If desired, lightly muddle some blackberries to release juice without overdoing it.
  5. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably 4 hours, to let flavors marry and mellow.
  6. Just before serving, add 1 cup (240 ml) chilled club soda or sparkling water and ice cubes to keep it cool.
  7. Garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme. Optionally, stir in a cinnamon stick while chilling for a subtle spice note.

Notes

Chill the sangria for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld. Muddle blackberries lightly to avoid overly sweet or murky sangria. Add club soda and ice just before serving to maintain fizz. Adjust sweetness with maple syrup or apple cider if needed. Use fresh lemon juice for best brightness. Garnish herbs should be added just before serving to preserve aroma.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoky bourbon sangria, blackberry sangria, Halloween cocktail, bourbon cocktail, autumn drink, party drink, smoky cocktail