Dirty secret: Premixed Sangria is usually better than you expect. Riunite — yes, that Riunite — recently released a bottled Sangria — “aromatized wine,” as they say on the label — that, while Italian instead of Spanish in origin, is no exception to the rule.

While quite sweet, it’s a beverage that’s loaded with fruit flavors — oranges, berries, and crisp apple notes, leading to a finish that’s a little floral, a little herbal at times. The wine itself is all but lost in this mix (though technically it is made from Lambrusco, Merlot, and Sangiovese, all from Italy), but honestly, it’s tough to blame them, because that’s kind of the point.

7% abv.

B+ / $7 / banfiwines.com

Riunite Sangria

$7

8.5

Rating

8.5/10