Sweet and fruity Mexican inspired sangria goes down incredibly smooth with the help of red moscato, brandy, triple sec, and orange juice that add fresh citrus flair.

Why this recipe works

This refreshing Mexican inspired sangria is a perfect side for steak fajitas on date night! I didn’t really want to fuss with adding extra sugar like most sangria recipes call for, so instead I chose to use Red Moscato, a dessert wine that is already sweet. It pairs exceptionally well with foods that have a little spice to them, much like a classic Mexican sangria would as it adds counteractive sweetness with a little bite.

There are many different ways to make sangria, depending on the fruits you use and the liqueurs that you incorporate. Sangria is derived from the Spanish word “sangre” which means blood. Sangria was named because of its usually dark red color. However, now you can find many variations of the drink, including those that use white wines (sangria blanca) such as our white sangria.

Ingredients you will need

Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable version at the end of this post.

Ingredients for Mexican Inspired Sangria

Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions

WINE – Mexican Sangria is typically made with red wine. I chose to use Red Moscato instead. By doing so, I was also able to eliminate the use of additional sugar in this recipe. If desired, you can substitute the red Moscato with your favorite red wine but you’ll want to add in sugar. Taste and adjust as needed.

LIQUEUR – Aside from the Moscato, you’ll need triple sec and brandy. You can substitute the triple sec with Cointreau or another orange liqueur you enjoy the taste of.

CLUB SODA – Club soda adds a nice dose of bubbly fizz. You can substitute it with sparkling water/seltzer water.

How to Make Mexican Inspired Sangria

These step by step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.

Reserve a few slices of oranges and lemons for garnish.
Place remaining fruit in a large pitcher. Add Red Moscato, triple sec, brandy and orange juice. Stir.
Add pineapples and stir again.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
Before serving, add the club soda and garnish with additional fruit slices.

Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips

Can I use white moscato instead?

Sure, you can definitely transform this recipe into a white sangria by substituting the red moscato with white.

Can I add other fruit?

Yes, feel free to add in other fruit to this sangria – the more the merrier! Apples, strawberries, mango, and grapefruit are all great additions.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this beautiful Mexican inspired sangria in either a large punch bowl or pitcher with plenty of fresh sliced oranges, lemons, and limes for flair and flavor. If you are serving it for a party it’s always fun to set up a station for garnishes alongside the pitcher and glasses.

Wedge or halve the citrus slices so your guests can add them to their glasses as they like. Serve chilled after being refrigerated for at least 4 hours. This will ensure well-mingled flavors.

More Sangria Recipes

I love to bake and cook and share my kitchen experience with all of you! Remembering to come back each day can be tough, that’s why I offer a convenient newsletter every time a new recipe posts. Simply subscribe and start receiving your free daily recipes!

This post originally appeared here on Nov 11, 2013 and has since been updated with new photos and expert tips.