Loving Cup: Brandy & Claret Sangria-Style Sharing Punch

The Loving Cup combines red wine, brandy, orange liqueur, and sparkling water in a pitcher built for sharing. This sangria-style punch has enough richness from the claret and brandy to feel substantial, while citrus and carbonation keep the finish light. Make the base ahead, chill it well, and add the bubbles just before serving.

A Drink Made for Sharing

The term “loving cup” has long referred to a communal drinking vessel passed between guests as a symbol of unity. Shared punch-style drinks carried that same social idea into group celebrations. This version follows the tradition with a wine-based pitcher build designed to be poured among friends rather than prepared one glass at a time.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients

• Claret: The red wine backbone, providing fruit, tannin, and structure.
• Brandy: Adds warmth and deeper fruit character.
• Triple sec: Supplies orange flavor and supporting sweetness.
• Simple syrup: Softens the wine and rounds out the drink.
• Carbonated water: Adds dilution, lift, and a sparkling finish.

Useful substitutions

• Replace claret with merlot or pinot noir for a different red wine profile.
• Cognac can stand in for brandy.
• Cointreau or orange curaçao can replace triple sec.
• Club soda works in place of carbonated water.

Equipment

• Pitcher
• Bar spoon
• Serving glasses
• Ice

Built for the Middle of the Table

This drink works because the richer ingredients and lighter ones have separate jobs. Claret and brandy form the base, triple sec gives the wine a clear citrus accent, and the reduced simple syrup keeps sweetness controlled. Carbonated water stretches the batch and gives every glass a fresher finish.

Substitutions & Variations

• Add orange, lemon, or berry slices to move the drink further toward sangria territory.
• Use a lighter red wine for a softer, fruitier pitcher.
• Replace the standard simple syrup with honey syrup for a richer variation.
• Swap some or all of the carbonated water for sparkling wine when you want a stronger, more celebratory version.
• Add fresh mint or basil for an herbal variation, using a light hand so the herbs do not dominate the wine.

Helpful Tips

• Chill the wine, brandy, and other ingredients before mixing so you do not need pitcher ice for temperature control.
• Add carbonated water only when you are ready to serve.
• Give the wine and spirits time to chill together before adding carbonation.
• Serve over fresh ice rather than letting ice dilute the entire pitcher.
• Add fruit garnishes shortly before serving so they stay fresh and attractive.
• For a larger gathering, prepare the still portion in advance and keep the carbonated water separate until service.