Sweet Tea Sangria with Berries

Name: Sweet Tea Sangria with Berries
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups brewed sweet tea, cooled; 1 cup white wine; 1/2 cup orange juice; 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries); 1 orange, sliced; 1 lemon, sliced; Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Taste the World

I love crafting refreshing beverages, and this Sweet Tea Sangria with Berries has become one of my favorites. The combination of sweet tea with vibrant berries creates an irresistible drink that is perfect for gatherings or enjoying a sunny afternoon. Each sip is a delightful mix of refreshing and fruity flavors, and the addition of citrus adds that perfect tang. I can't wait for you to try this recipe, because it’s simple to make and will surely impress your friends and family.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-04T18:26:27.485Z

When I first decided to combine sweet tea with sangria, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the flavors meld together. After several attempts, I nailed down the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. The key is to allow the mixed berries to infuse their flavor into the tea for at least a few minutes, which results in a beautiful and vibrant drink.

I've also experimented with various fruits, but I always come back to blueberries and strawberries due to their sweet and juicy qualities. This drink has become a staple at my summer parties, and I can guarantee it will be a hit at yours, too!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Refreshing twist on traditional sangria
Sweet tea base adds a unique flavor profile
Perfect for warm-weather gatherings

Perfecting Your Sweet Tea Base

When making the sweet tea for this sangria, it’s crucial to brew it correctly to achieve that desired flavor. I recommend using a black tea blend, steeped for about 5-7 minutes. This duration allows for a robust flavor without becoming overly bitter. After brewing, let it cool completely before mixing it with the other ingredients. This cooling step is essential to prevent diluting the sangria with ice too quickly when serving.

Consider experimenting with sweeteners; while granulated sugar is classic, honey or agave syrup can add a unique taste. Start with one cup of water per two tea bags and adjust sweeteners according to your preferences. If you prefer a lighter sweetness, try steeping with fresh mint leaves or adding them during the steeping process for a subtle herbal note.

Choosing the Right Fruits

Selecting the perfect berries can significantly enhance your sangria. Fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries not only add vibrant colors but also their natural sweetness, which pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. Opt for ripe but firm berries to ensure they hold their shape in the sangria. If you’re out of fresh berries, frozen berries can be an excellent alternative—just ensure they are unsweetened to maintain the balance of flavors.

For citrus, using a combination of orange and lemon slices provides a delightful zing. However, feel free to experiment by adding sliced limes or even grapefruit for a twist. Just remember to remove any seeds from your citrus to avoid a bitter aftertaste. Additionally, the citrus serves not just for flavor but also brightens the overall appearance of the drink, making it visually appealing for gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Sangria

4 cups brewed sweet tea, cooled
1 cup white wine
1/2 cup orange juice
1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
1 orange, sliced
1 lemon, sliced
Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Mix everything together in a pitcher and let it chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Sangria

In a large pitcher, combine the brewed sweet tea, white wine, and orange juice. Stir well to mix.

Add the Fruit

Add the mixed berries, orange slices, and lemon slices to the pitcher. Stir gently to combine.

Chill and Serve

Let the sangria chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Serve over ice and garnish with fresh mint leaves.

Enjoy your refreshing Sweet Tea Sangria with Berries!

Pro Tips

For an extra bubbly twist, top with a splash of soda or sparkling water just before serving.

Chilling and Serving Tips

The chilling process is vital for developing the flavors in your Sweet Tea Sangria. Allowing it to rest in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes is recommended; however, if time permits, extending this to 2-4 hours can yield an even more harmonious blend as the fruits infuse their flavors into the tea and wine. Just be sure to cover the pitcher with plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing any odors in your fridge.

When serving, use large ice cubes, as they melt slowly and minimize dilution of your sangria. Alternatively, you can freeze fresh fruit slices in small ice cube trays to use as ice. This not only keeps your drink cold but also adds a stunning visual element without watering it down. Garnishing with fresh mint leaves just before serving enhances both aroma and presentation.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning ahead, this sangria can be made a day in advance for convenience. Simply prepare the sweet tea, combine it with the white wine and orange juice, and then wait to add the fresh fruits until about an hour before you plan to serve. This method prevents the fruits from becoming mushy and keeps the sangria looking fresh and appealing.

In terms of storage, the sangria is best enjoyed within 3 days; however, if storing it longer, be prepared for the flavors of fruit to become more intense while the overall freshness may diminish. For best results, ensure it's tightly sealed in an airtight pitcher to maintain its flavors. If you find it has lost some charm after a couple of days, don’t hesitate to add a splash of fresh orange juice or a bit more sweet tea to revive it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use black tea instead of sweet tea?

Absolutely! Black tea will provide a different flavor but still works well with the fruits.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

It's best to enjoy this sangria the same day it's made, but it can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

→ Can I use other fruits?

Yes! Feel free to mix in any seasonal fruits you love, such as peaches or cherries.

→ Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Certainly! Simply replace the white wine with extra sweet tea for a kid-friendly version.