The Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria is a refreshing, fruit-filled cocktail that brings together the crisp tartness of green apple with the sweetness of Moscato wine. Pucker Sour Apple Liqueur and fresh apple purée intensify the apple-forward flavor, while pineapple juice adds tropical brightness. Fresh strawberries, oranges, and apples give the sangria color, freshness, and a hint of natural sweetness. Served chilled over ice, this sangria is light, fruity, and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a pitcher-style cocktail with a refreshing twist, this sangria is a crowd-pleasing option full of orchard-inspired flavor.
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Tasting Notes
The Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria is fruity, crisp, and refreshing with just the right amount of sweetness. Moscato provides a light, sparkling base with floral and honey notes, while Pucker Sour Apple Liqueur introduces a tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the wine. Fresh pineapple juice adds tropical brightness, complementing the tartness of the green apple purée. Strawberries, oranges, and apple chunks infuse the sangria with fresh, layered flavors while also enhancing its visual appeal. Served chilled over ice, this sangria is lively, slightly tart, and delightfully fruit-forward, making it perfect for warm gatherings and festive meals.
Equipment and Glassware
Making the Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria is straightforward, requiring only a few basic tools. A sharp knife and cutting board are necessary for preparing the fresh fruit. A medium saucepan is used to soften the apples for the homemade purée, while a blender ensures a smooth consistency. A large pitcher serves as the mixing vessel for the sangria, allowing the fruit and liquids to blend evenly. A wooden spoon or long bar spoon is useful for stirring. For serving, stemless wine glasses or large goblets are ideal, as they provide space for ice, fruit, and the sangria’s vibrant pour.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cut strawberries
- 1 orange cut into small slices
- 1 apple cut into small chunks
- 1 bottle of chilled Moscato
- 6 oz Pucker Sour Apple Liqueur
- 6 oz pineapple juice
- 5-6 oz green apple puree
Green Apple Puree Recipe:
- Cut 2-3 green apples into large chunks
- Heat a saucepan at medium heat
- Add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of water, just enough to coat the pan to the apples don’t stick
- Cook the apples in the saucepan for 10 minutes or until slightly soft on the outside
- Let cool and place in a blender with a squeeze of lemon juice to prevent browning
- Blend until you get a smooth texture (can add more water if too thick)
- 2 large green apples yielded about 5 oz
Instructions
- Add the Moscato, pineapple juice, apple pucker, and green apple puree to a pitcher
- Stir all ingredients together
- Add the strawberries, oranges, and apples
- Add ice if serving immediately, or keep in the fridge until you are ready to serve
- Pour over fresh ice and top with extra fruit
Pro Tips
- Prepare the green apple purée in advance and store in the fridge until ready to use.
- Chill the Moscato thoroughly before mixing for the best flavor and texture.
- Use ripe but firm strawberries for added sweetness without muddiness.
- If you prefer a tarter sangria, increase the amount of apple pucker slightly.
- For a lighter version, top each glass with a splash of soda water.
- Let the sangria rest in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours before serving to deepen the fruit flavor.
- Serve in large goblets to showcase the fruit and colorful layers.
When to Serve
The Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria is best enjoyed during spring and summer, when fresh fruit flavors are most refreshing. It’s an excellent choice for outdoor gatherings, brunches, or casual parties, offering a drink that’s both flavorful and visually appealing. Its balance of sweetness and tartness makes it versatile enough for pairing with light appetizers, grilled dishes, or fresh salads. Thanks to its bright color and fruity character, it also works well as a celebratory drink for holidays or family-style dinners. This sangria adapts easily to both festive occasions and relaxed get-togethers.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
Moscato:
- Barefoot Moscato
- Yellow Tail Moscato
- Sutter Home Moscato
- Carlo Rossi Moscato
- Cupcake Moscato
- Bartenura Moscato
Apple Liqueur (Sour Apple):
- DeKuyper Sour Apple Pucker
- Bols Sour Apple Liqueur
- Hiram Walker Sour Apple
- Mr. Boston Apple Schnapps
- Sour Apple Midori (if you prefer a melon-apple blend)
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup cut strawberries
- 1 orange cut into small slices
- 1 apple cut into small chunks
- 1 bottle of chilled Moscato
- 6 oz Pucker Sour Apple Liqueur
- 6 oz pineapple juice
- 5-6 oz green apple puree
Instructions
Green Apple Puree Recipe:
- Cut 2-3 green apples into large chunks
- Heat a saucepan at medium heat
- Add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of water, just enough to coat the pan to the apples don’t stick
- Cook the apples in the saucepan for 10 minutes or until slightly soft on the outside
- Let cool and place in a blender with a squeeze of lemon juice to prevent browning
- Blend until you get a smooth texture (can add more water if too thick)
- 2 large green apples yielded about 5 oz
Sangria:
- Add the Moscato, pineapple juice, apple pucker, and green apple puree to a pitcher
- Stir all ingredients together
- Add the strawberries, oranges, and apples
- Add ice if serving immediately, or keep in the fridge until you are ready to serve
- Pour over fresh ice and top with extra fruit
Video
Notes
Pro Tips
- Make the purée ahead of time to save preparation when hosting.
- Use a sweeter Moscato for balance or a drier version for a crisper profile.
- For extra sparkle, top each glass with a splash of club soda before serving.