Bright Blackberry-Basil “Sangria”

on Jul 01 2025

This “sangria” is cool, colorful, and effortlessly refreshing.  It combines the bold flavor of juicy blackberries with fresh herbs and tea for a drink that’s as beautiful as it is brain-friendly.  Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ, lounging on the patio, or just looking for a smarter seasonal sip, this is the perfect summer beverage to enjoy under the sun.  You can easily use rooibos or a fruity tea, such as peach or raspberry, for an alcohol-free brain beverage. 

Beyond the flavor, this drink is packed with powerful nutrients.  Blackberries deliver anthocyanins and quercetin, antioxidants shown to enhance memory, protect neurons from oxidative stress, and improve blood flow to the brain.  A drizzle of honey adds natural sweetness and a dose of apigenin, which helps with improved mood and support for getting deeper, more restful sleep.  And depending on your tea choice, whether green or black, you’ll also be getting catechins for inflammation control and L-theanine to promote calm, focus, and mental clarity. 

Bright Blackberry-Basil “Sangria”

Laura Morris CPT and Jennifer Ventrelle RD

Servings

6 cups

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cuisine

Mediterranean and MIND Diet

Category

Beverage

Bright Blackberry-Basil “Sangria”

Ingredients

  • 4 cups blackberries  
  • 1 1/2 cups fresh basil leaves 
  • 1 cup water 
  • 1/2 cup honey 
  • 3 cups fruity herbal tea 
  • 1 cup sparkling water 
  • 2 limes cut into 1/4 inch rounds 
  • 2 cups ice 

Directions

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine 3 cups of the blackberries, 1 cup of the basil leaves, the water and honey. Bring to a boil over medium heat, reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
  2. Let cool and strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a measuring cup. You should have roughly 1 cup of syrup.
  3. In a serving pitcher, combine the blackberry syrup, tea, and sparkling water.
  4. Add the limes slices, remaining 1/2 cup basil leaves, remaining 1 cup blackberries, and ice.
  5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
  6. Serve and enjoy!