Sparkling White Sangria with Licor 43 & Prosecco: Your Ultimate Summer Cocktail

Dive into summer with this vibrant White Sangria featuring the unique touch of Licor 43 and the celebratory fizz of Prosecco. It’s a remarkably refreshing, easy-to-make cocktail that promises a party in every glass – perfect for BBQs, picnics, or any sun-drenched gathering!

There’s something undeniably magical about a glass of sangria on a warm summer’s day. It’s a timeless classic, embodying the spirit of leisurely afternoons and festive evenings. For me, that love runs deep. I adore sangria for its effortless charm, its perfect balance of sweetness, and its utterly refreshing quality. But, a few years ago, I discovered a secret ingredient that transformed my beloved white sangria into an absolute showstopper: Licor 43. This golden Spanish liqueur adds a layer of complex vanilla and citrus notes that elevates the drink from simply good to truly unforgettable. It’s a combination so delightful, so effervescent, and so full of summery flavor, it has quickly become my go-to recipe. Prepare to be enchanted by its sparkling charm and fruity aftertaste – it truly could be this year’s quintessential summer drink.

White sangria with Licor 43: a true party starter, an elegant addition to any summer cocktail party, and the perfect companion for your next BBQ.

Why This Sangria Is Your Summer Must-Have

Forget heavy, syrupy cocktails. This Licor 43 Prosecco Sangria is designed for pure, unadulterated summer enjoyment. It’s light, bright, and utterly quaffable, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion where good company and sunshine are involved. Whether you’re hosting an elaborate American BBQ, a casual backyard get-together, or simply enjoying a quiet evening on the porch, this sangria delivers a burst of flavor and a refreshing kick that will keep everyone smiling. Its vibrant fruit, sparkling wine, and the exotic undertones of Licor 43 create a symphony of tastes that are both familiar and excitingly new. Plus, its stunning presentation with colorful fruits and fresh mint makes it a visual delight, ensuring it’s the star of any spread. We’re dedicating this week to the art of the American BBQ, and while yesterday we crafted a delightful rose vanilla iced tea, today we dive headfirst into this fruity, spirited cocktail. Keep an eye on our site for more incredible BBQ dishes all week long!

The Magic of Licor 43 in Sangria

For those unfamiliar, Licor 43 is a Spanish liqueur with a captivating story. Its name comes from the 43 secret ingredients that make up its unique flavor profile. Predominantly, you’ll detect rich vanilla, bright citrus (like Mediterranean oranges and lemons), and a hint of exotic spices and aromatic herbs. This complex yet harmonious blend is precisely what makes it so perfect for a white sangria. Unlike traditional red wine sangrias, white sangria offers a lighter canvas, allowing the delicate notes of Licor 43 to truly shine. It provides a beautiful warmth and depth without overpowering the fresh fruit and sparkling Prosecco, creating a sophisticated and incredibly smooth drink that’s easy to enjoy.

Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Prosecco Sangria

Crafting this incredible sangria requires just a few key components. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the balanced, refreshing, and utterly delicious final product. Here’s what you’ll need and why each choice matters:

• Grape Juice: Opt for unsweetened white grape juice. While red grape juice would technically work, white grape juice maintains the “white sangria” aesthetic, keeping the drink light and visually appealing. It adds a natural sweetness and fruity base that complements the other ingredients beautifully without being overly sugary.
• Summer Fruits (Pomegranate, Raspberries, and Strawberries): A sangria isn’t complete without a generous helping of fresh fruit! For this recipe, we focus on vibrant summer berries.
  • Strawberries: Hull and quarter them to release their sweet juices and provide lovely texture.
  • Raspberries: Their tartness offers a perfect counterpoint to the sweetness of the other ingredients.
  • Pomegranate Seeds: These add a delightful pop of color and a subtle tangy crunch, making each sip more exciting.

  Always remember to wash all your fruits thoroughly before adding them to the pitcher.

• Fresh Mint: A sprig of fresh mint is more than just a garnish; it adds an incredibly refreshing aroma and a cool, clean finish to the drink. It’s the perfect herbaceous touch to lift all the fruity flavors.
• Licor 43: The star of our show! This Spanish liqueur, with its 43 secret ingredients, imparts a distinct vanilla, citrus, and slightly spicy sweetness. It’s what gives this white sangria its unique depth and sophisticated character.
• Prosecco: This Italian sparkling wine is known for being aromatic, fruity, and crisp, making it an ideal choice for a light and celebratory sangria. Its fine bubbles add an irresistible effervescence. Prosecco is a versatile sparkling wine, also famously used in classic cocktails like a Bellini or a Scroppino.

Easy Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sangria with Licor 43

Preparing this exquisite white sangria is incredibly straightforward, allowing you more time to relax and enjoy your summer gatherings. Follow these simple steps for a perfect batch every time:

Step 1 – Prepare Your Fruits and Pitcher

1. Begin by thoroughly washing all your fruits – strawberries, raspberries, and pomegranate seeds.
2. Hull the strawberries and then quarter them into bite-sized pieces.
3. Fill a large pitcher or carafe about one-quarter full with fresh ice cubes. This ensures your sangria starts chilling immediately.

Step 2 – Layer in the Liquids

1. Pour the vibrant Licor 43 directly over the ice in the pitcher.
2. Next, add the unsweetened white grape juice. These two liquids form the flavorful base of your sangria.

Step 3 – Infuse with Fruits and Mint

1. Gently place the pomegranate seeds into the carafe, letting them settle amidst the liquids.
2. Add the fresh raspberries, scattering them evenly.
3. Carefully spoon in the quartered strawberries.
4. Finally, add a generous handful of fresh mint leaves. The mint will begin to infuse the drink with its refreshing aroma.

Step 4 – Top with Prosecco & Serve

Just before serving, fill the remainder of the pitcher with chilled Prosecco. Give it a gentle stir to combine all the beautiful flavors and ingredients. Serve immediately in large wine or gin cocktail glasses, ensuring each glass gets a good mix of fruit and ice. TIP: If you’re serving outdoors on a hot day, keep your pitcher nestled in a larger bowl filled with ice to maintain its perfect chill throughout your event!

Substitutions and Variations to Customize Your Sangria

One of the best things about sangria is its versatility! Don’t hesitate to get creative and tailor this recipe to your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Virgin Sangria (Mocktail Version): To make a delightful non-alcoholic version, simply replace the Licor 43 with a good quality vanilla syrup (start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste). For the Prosecco, use sparkling water, lemon-lime soda (like Sprite), or even a non-alcoholic sparkling cider for that festive fizz. This way, everyone can enjoy a refreshing “sangria”!
• Prosecco Alternatives: While Prosecco is fantastic, you can certainly experiment with other sparkling wines.
  • Cava: This Spanish sparkling wine is an excellent alternative, often used in traditional Catalonian sangrias (especially with white wine). Cava typically offers a drier, more savory profile compared to Prosecco’s fruitier notes, which can add an interesting depth.
  • Champagne or other dry sparkling wines: For a more luxurious touch, a Brut Champagne or another dry sparkling wine can elevate the cocktail further.
• Licor 43 Alternatives: If you don’t have Licor 43 or want to explore different flavors, you could consider:
  • Amaretto: This almond-flavored Italian liqueur would add a warm, slightly nutty sweetness.
  • Grand Marnier or Cointreau: These orange liqueurs would enhance the citrus notes and provide a classic sangria flavor profile, though you’ll miss the unique vanilla complexity of Licor 43.
  • Peach Schnapps: For a sweeter, peach-forward variation, especially delightful with stone fruits.
• Fruit Variations: While our summer berry mix is divine, traditional sangrias often feature a wider array of fruits. Feel free to incorporate:
  • Slices of fresh oranges and lemons for a classic citrus tang.
  • Diced apples or pears for crunch and subtle sweetness.
  • Slices of ripe peaches or nectarines for a juicy, stone-fruit twist.
  • Kiwi, mango, or pineapple for a more tropical vibe.
• Other Sangria Inspirations: If you love sangria, explore other delightful variations. On my blog, you can find recipes for a classic White Sangria (Sangria Blanca) and the elegant Clerico Sangria.

Recommended Equipment for Effortless Sangria Making

Having the right tools can make all the difference in preparing and serving your sangria with ease and style.

• Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board: A sharp chef’s knife and a sturdy cutting board are indispensable for quickly and safely preparing your fruits. This knife is my personal favorite and a daily workhorse in my kitchen!
• Large Glass Pitcher or Carafe: A beautiful glass pitcher is essential not only for mixing your sangria but also for showcasing its vibrant colors and fresh fruit. Choose one that’s large enough to comfortably hold all ingredients and serves as an attractive centerpiece. I often use mine for cocktails and iced teas all summer long.
• Large Wine or Gin Cocktail Glasses: Serve this sangria in generously sized glasses. They’re perfect for accommodating the cocktail, plenty of ice, and a healthy portion of fruit, all while looking elegant.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This sangria is best enjoyed fresh, but with a few clever tips, you can prepare much of it in advance, making party prep a breeze!

• Preparing in Advance: If you plan to make your sangria ahead of time, combine the Licor 43, grape juice, and all the fresh fruits (including mint) in your pitcher. Store this mixture in the refrigerator for up to 4-6 hours. Crucially, do not add the ice cubes or the Prosecco until just before serving. The sparkling wine will lose its fizz if added too early, and the ice will dilute your beautiful drink.
• Keeping it Cool: On a hot summer day, your sangria will warm up quickly. To keep it perfectly chilled throughout your gathering, place the pitcher in a larger bowl or bucket filled with ice. This simple trick ensures every glass is as cool and refreshing as the first.
• Leftovers: If by some miracle you have leftovers, remove any remaining ice to prevent further dilution. Store the sangria in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. The fruit will continue to macerate, intensifying the flavors, but the Prosecco will likely have lost its fizz.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Refreshing Cocktail Ideas

If you loved this sparkling sangria, you might enjoy exploring other fantastic drinks from our collection:

📖 Recipe