Sangria
This easy and refreshing Sangria recipe combines red wine, fresh fruits, and a splash of sparkling water for the perfect summer drink. Customizable with different fruits and wines, it's ideal for parties, barbecues, or a relaxing evening. Ready in minutes and bursting with flavor!
Equipment
- 1 Large pitcher or jug
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Sharp knife (for slicing fruit)
- 1 Wooden spoon (for stirring)
- Measuring cups (for liquids)
- 1 Citrus juicer (optional, if squeezing fresh juice)
- 1 Muddler (optional, for lightly crushing fruit)
- Glasses for serving
- 1 Ice cube tray (for serving with ice)
Ingredients
- 1 Bottle of red wine (750 ml) – A Spanish Rioja or any fruity, medium-bodied wine works great.
- ¼ Cup Brandy – Adds depth and a slight warmth to the drink.
- ¼ Cup Orange liqueur (e.g., Triple Sec, Cointreau) – For a citrusy kick.
- ¼ Cup Simple syrup (or honey, to taste) – Sweetens the sangria; adjust based on your desired sweetness.
- 1 Orange, thinly sliced – Adds a burst of citrus flavor.
- 1 Lemon, thinly sliced – Balances the sweetness with a tangy note.
- 1 Lime, thinly sliced – For that fresh, zesty edge.
- 1 Cup Mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries) – These absorb the flavors beautifully.
- 1 Apple, cored and thinly sliced – Adds a crisp and slightly tart element.
- 1 Cinnamon stick – Infuses warmth and subtle spice.
- 2 Cups Sparkling water or club soda – Adds effervescence; add right before serving.
- Ice – To keep your sangria perfectly chilled.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Fruit:
- Start by thinly slicing the orange, lemon, lime, and apple. If using strawberries, hull and halve them. Place all the prepared fruit into a large pitcher. Add the mixed berries to the mix for a pop of color and flavor.Tip: Muddle the fruit lightly in the pitcher to release some of the juices. This will enhance the flavor profile of your sangria.
2. Mix the Base:
- Pour the entire bottle of red wine into the pitcher over the fruit. Add the brandy, orange liqueur, and simple syrup. Stir well to combine, making sure all the fruits are evenly distributed.Tip: Adjust the amount of sweetener based on your preference. If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the amount of simple syrup.
3. Add the Spices:
- Toss in a cinnamon stick to infuse the sangria with a warm, spicy undertone. This is optional but highly recommended for an added depth of flavor.
4. Let It Chill:
- Refrigerate the sangria for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together. For best results, let it sit overnight. The longer it chills, the more infused the flavors will be.Tip: Sangria tastes best when given time to rest, so don't skip this step. It allows the fruit to absorb the alcohol and the spices to fully develop.
5. Serve and Add Sparkle:
- Just before serving, stir in the sparkling water or club soda for that refreshing fizz. Fill glasses with ice, pour the sangria, and make sure to include some of the fruit in each glass. Garnish with a slice of citrus or a few berries for a beautiful presentation.Tip: If you prefer your sangria less fizzy, you can omit the sparkling water or replace it with still water for a smoother drink.
Notes
Variations & Substitutions:
- White Wine Sangria: Swap the red wine for a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
- Rosé Sangria: For a lighter and slightly sweeter version, use rosé wine.
- Non-Alcoholic Option: Substitute the wine and liqueurs with grape juice and sparkling water for a family-friendly version.