Gimlet White Wine Sangria

Gimlet Sangria – An Easy White Wine Gin Cocktail

Do you have a drink of choice in the summer months? I’m happy to drink wine almost any time of the year. If we are grilling filet mignon or flat iron steak, I want a nice Cabernet. But on hot days, it’s a cool glass of white wine that hits the spot. However, since I mixed up this gin sangria, it’s become my refreshing summer cocktail of choice.

Cucumber Gimlet White Sangria is a fresh take on two traditional drink recipes. A gimlet is a gin and lime juice cocktail usually served over ice, and often with a lime garnish. Sangria is a wine-based drink that often includes fruit and other liqueurs. Together, they become a crisp and fresh cocktail that is sure to cool you off. Here’s why you’ll love it…

• Vibrant flavors. As refreshing as the classic gimlet, but a nice, crisp sauvignon blanc adds a summer touch and lovely complexity to the flavor.
• Not too sweet. Simple syrup adds a bit of sweetness, but if you don’t like super sugary cocktails, you’ll find the lime juice is the perfect tangy balance.
• Perfect party drink. Mix up a big batch and let it sit in the fridge till your guests arrive. Pour it over ice just before serving so you don’t dilute the flavors.

Cocktail Ingredients

Get ready to stir up a refreshing white wine gin cocktail. Here’s an overview of what you’ll need to make this gimlet white sangria. Scroll down to the recipe card for the quantities and step-by-step instructions.

• Sauvignon Blanc: You can use another type of dry white wine, but the citrusy flavor characteristic of many brands of sauvignon blanc is a great complement for this cocktail. You’ll need one bottle.
• Gin: Use your favorite. It doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive.
• Simple syrup: It’s easy to make it yourself. Just see the tips below. But you can also buy premade bottles.
• Freshly squeezed lime juice: Don’t use the kind from a bottle, as it is too bitter.
• Celery: This is optional but adds an interesting herbal, savory element.
• Cucumber: Thinly sliced to go in the drink, plus some extra slices for garnish.
• Limes: Besides the lime juice, you’ll also want some lime slices for the cocktail and to garnish it.
• Ice

Quick Tips

• Prep simple syrup ahead. To make the simple syrup, combine equal parts water and sugar in a small saucepan, heat until all of the sugar is dissolved, then cool completely in the refrigerator. You want to make sure it is fully chilled before using. Simple syrup can be kept refrigerated for up to a month or two.
• Serve now or later. You can serve the gimlet white sangria right away, but putting it in the refrigerator for a bit will give the flavors time to blend and develop.
• Chill it down. Add ice to the pitcher just before serving or just pour over ice in individual glasses. Enjoy!