This Spanish-inspired cocktail is the perfect blend of fruity sweetness and bold wine flavors, making it a staple for summer gatherings and lazy weekend afternoons.
I first fell in love with Red Sangria during a trip to Barcelona, where I discovered its power to turn a simple meal into a festive occasion. Since then, I’ve been perfecting my own version, tweaking the recipe to strike that ideal balance between the richness of red wine and the bright notes of fresh fruit.
This Red Sangria pairs beautifully with Spanish-inspired dishes like Patatas Bravas or even a zesty Taco Salad for a fun fusion twist. So grab your pitcher, slice up some fruit, and let’s dive into the art of crafting the perfect Red Sangria. I’d love to hear about your own Sangria experiences in the comments!
Why You Will Love This Recipe?
- I’ve found that making Sangria a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a more complex and satisfying drink.
- The recipe is incredibly forgiving – I’ve experimented with different fruit combinations based on what’s in season, and it always turns out delicious.
- It’s become my go-to for potlucks and parties because it’s easy to make in large batches and always impresses guests.
- I love how versatile it is – I’ve enjoyed it on hot summer days by the pool, but also as a cozy drink during fall gatherings.
- Unexpected bonus: leftover fruit makes for a delicious, boozy snack at the bottom of your glass!
Savor More Fruity Drink Creations!
Red Sangria Recipe
Equipment
- Large pitcher
- Cutting Board
- Sharp Knife
- Measuring Cups
- Spoon
- Plastic wrap or lid
- Glasses
Ingredients
- 1 bottle 750 ml of dry red wine (like Tempranillo, Merlot, or Cabernet Sauvignon)
- 1 orange sliced
- 1 lemon sliced
- 1 lime sliced
- 1 apple cored and chopped
- 1/4 cup brandy or triple sec
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tbps sugar
- 1 cup club soda or sparkling water
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit: In a large pitcher, add the sliced orange, lemon, lime, and chopped apple. You can add other fruits if you like, such as berries, peaches, or pineapples.
- Add the Liquids: Pour the entire bottle of red wine into the pitcher. If you’re using brandy or triple sec, add it now. Also, add the orange juice.
- Sweeten the Mix: Add the sugar and stir until it’s fully dissolved. You can adjust the sugar based on your preference for sweetness.
- Chill and Marinate: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the fruit to infuse into the wine.
- Add the Fizz: Just before serving, add the club soda or sparkling water to the pitcher. Stir gently to combine.
- Serve: Pour the sangria into glasses filled with ice. Include some of the fruit pieces in each glass. If desired, garnish with additional slices of citrus or a sprig of mint.
Notes
Reducing or eliminating added sugar will also lower the calorie count.
Including additional fruits (like berries) may increase the sugar content.
Nutrition
Personal Insights: My Favorite Tips and Tricks!
- If you really want your sangria to pop with flavor, use fresh, ripe fruits. I always go for oranges, lemons, and limes because they bring that bright citrusy kick. Adding apples or berries can give you a nice mix of textures and flavors too. The key is to let them sit in the wine for a couple of hours, so their essence really comes through.
- When it comes to sweetening your sangria, don’t overdo it with the sugar. You want just enough to balance the acidity of the wine and fruit, but not so much that it’s overly sweet. I usually start with a couple of tablespoons, give it a good stir, and then taste to see if it needs more. You can always add, but you can’t take it out!
- Here’s a little trick I love: when you’re ready to serve your sangria, add some sparkling water or club soda for a touch of fizz. It lightens up the drink and makes it super refreshing. Just make sure to add it right before serving to keep that bubbly texture. It’s a simple step that really makes a difference!
What I Love to Serve Alongside Red Sangria?
When I serve Red Sangria, I love to pair it with dishes that enhance its fruity and refreshing flavors. Light, flavorful bites with a hint of sweetness or a touch of spice work perfectly. These dishes complement the sangria, creating a balanced and enjoyable experience for any gathering. Happy Drinking!!