Sangria Drink

Sangria

A shot of Gavin Wrigley looking to the camera in a dimly lit room
Written by Gavin Wrigley
Andrea
Tested by
Andrea Ottaiano
5 from 1 vote

Perfect for hot days, this refreshing Sangria combines fruit and wine for a delicious, easy-to-make beverage that’s sure to be a hit at any summer gathering.

Sangria Recipe

Elevate your summer gatherings with this unbeatable Sangria recipe! Packed with red wine, fresh fruit, and a splash of brandy, this crowd-pleaser is as refreshing as it is easy to make.

Prep time:

2 minutes

Mixing time:

2 minutes

Servings:

4

Calories:

892 kl

Ingredients

  • 1 bottle of Red Wine
  • 1 orange, thinly sliced
  • 1 lemon, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • oz Brandy
  • soda water, to top
  • Ice cubes
  • Additional fruits like berries, peaches, or an apple, (optional)

Equipment

  • Large Pitcher
  • Measuring Jigger
  • Stirrer or Wooden Spoon
  • Glasses for serving

Instructions

  • Prep Fruit: Slice 1 orange and 1 lemon thinly.
  • Sweeten: Add 2 tbsp sugar to the bottom of the pitcher.
  • Fruit Layer: Place the sliced orange and lemon into the pitcher.
  • Add Brandy: Pour 1½ oz Brandy over the fruit.
  • Pour Wine: Add 1 bottle of Red Wine.
  • Add soda: Fill up the pitcher with soda water.
  • Stir Well: Use a wooden spoon to stir, ensuring the sugar dissolves and add some ice.

Notes

Substitutes:

  • Red Wine: I've used white wine or rosé when I'm out of red. The flavor profile changes, but it's still delicious.
  • Brandy: If you don't have brandy, a dark rum or flavored liqueur like peach schnapps works well.
  • Sugar: No sugar? Use honey or a sugar substitute. Just taste as you go to get the sweetness right.

Making a Pitcher of Sangria:

  • Scale: Double or triple the ingredients to make a larger batch. For example, use 2 bottles of wine, 2 shots of brandy, and so on.
  • Mix: Combine all the ingredients in a large pitcher and follow the original steps.

Making it Non-Alcoholic:

  • Wine Substitute: Use grape juice or a non-alcoholic red wine.
  • Brandy Substitute: Omit or use a non-alcoholic vanilla or almond extract for some depth.
  • Proceed As Usual: Use these non-alcoholic substitutes and follow the original steps.

Making it Vegan:

  • Sugar: Make sure to use vegan sugar, as some sugars are processed using bone char.
  • Wine: Check that the wine you're using is vegan, as some wines use animal products in the filtration process.

Nutrition Facts

Calories
892
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
0.3
g
0
%
Saturated Fat
 
0.02
g
0
%
Sodium
 
31
mg
1
%
Carbohydrates
 
59
g
20
%
Fiber
 
3
g
13
%
Sugar
 
41
g
46
%
Potassium
 
1192
mg
34
%
Protein
 
2
g
4
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
 
0.03
g
Monounsaturated Fat
 
0.03
g
Vitamin A
 
310
IU
6
%
Vitamin C
 
70
mg
85
%
Calcium
 
113
mg
11
%
Iron
 
4
mg
22
%

 

Sangria Drink

Sangria Recipe

Gavin Wrigley Written by Gavin Wrigley
5 from 1 vote
Jump to Video
Elevate your summer gatherings with this unbeatable Sangria recipe! Packed with red wine, fresh fruit, and a splash of brandy, this crowd-pleaser is as refreshing as it is easy to make.
Prep time: 2 minutes
Mixing time: 2 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 892

Ingredients
 

  • 1 bottle of Red Wine
  • 1 orange - thinly sliced
  • 1 lemon - thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • oz Brandy
  • soda water - to top
  • Ice cubes
  • Additional fruits like berries, peaches, or an apple - (optional)

Equipment

  • Large Pitcher
  • Measuring Jigger
  • Stirrer or Wooden Spoon
  • Glasses for serving

Instructions

  • Prep Fruit: Slice 1 orange and 1 lemon thinly.
  • Sweeten: Add 2 tbsp sugar to the bottom of the pitcher.
  • Fruit Layer: Place the sliced orange and lemon into the pitcher.
  • Add Brandy: Pour 1½ oz Brandy over the fruit.
  • Pour Wine: Add 1 bottle of Red Wine.
  • Add soda: Fill up the pitcher with soda water.
  • Stir Well: Use a wooden spoon to stir, ensuring the sugar dissolves and add some ice.

Notes

Substitutes:

  • Red Wine: I've used white wine or rosé when I'm out of red. The flavor profile changes, but it's still delicious.
  • Brandy: If you don't have brandy, a dark rum or flavored liqueur like peach schnapps works well.
  • Sugar: No sugar? Use honey or a sugar substitute. Just taste as you go to get the sweetness right.

Making a Pitcher of Sangria:

  • Scale: Double or triple the ingredients to make a larger batch. For example, use 2 bottles of wine, 2 shots of brandy, and so on.
  • Mix: Combine all the ingredients in a large pitcher and follow the original steps.

Making it Non-Alcoholic:

  • Wine Substitute: Use grape juice or a non-alcoholic red wine.
  • Brandy Substitute: Omit or use a non-alcoholic vanilla or almond extract for some depth.
  • Proceed As Usual: Use these non-alcoholic substitutes and follow the original steps.

Making it Vegan:

  • Sugar: Make sure to use vegan sugar, as some sugars are processed using bone char.
  • Wine: Check that the wine you're using is vegan, as some wines use animal products in the filtration process.

What is a Sangria?

Sangria is a Spanish punch that combines red wine, fruit juices, soda water, fruit, and sometimes liqueurs. It’s often served chilled for refreshing summertime outdoor gatherings. Originating in Spain, Sangria has gained worldwide popularity and can be found on drink menus everywhere. The beauty of Sangria lies in its simplicity and flexibility; you can easily customize it with your favorite fruits and wine. While it might seem like a fancy drink, making Sangria is straightforward and hassle-free.

A Sangria Drink in a pitcher on a white table with some oranges behind and some plant leaves on the side.

What is a Sangria made of – The Ingredients

A Sangria calls for these ingredients:

  • Red Wine: The drink’s base contributes to its rich, fruity flavor.
  • Fruit Slices: Add natural sweetness and visual appeal.
  • Brandy: Gives the Sangria a kick and deepens the flavor.
  • Sugar: Sweetens the mix, balancing the tartness of the wine and fruit.
  • Soda Water: Adds fizz and lightness to the drink.
  • Ice Cubes: Keep the Sangria chilled without diluting it too much.

Cognac Brandy, red wine, sugar and lemons laid out on a white bar table

How do you make a Sangria?

Our instructions make it simple to create a Sangria:

1
<p>Thinly slice lemons. </p>

Thinly slice lemons.

2
<p>Thinly slice oranges, and any other fruits you’d like to include.</p>

Thinly slice oranges, and any other fruits you’d like to include.

3
<p>Place a couple of tablespoons of sugar at the bottom of your pitcher for sweetness.</p>

Place a couple of tablespoons of sugar at the bottom of your pitcher for sweetness.

4
<p>Put the sliced fruits into the pitcher on top of the sugar.</p>

Put the sliced fruits into the pitcher on top of the sugar.

5
<p>Add a shot of brandy over the fruits to give the drink some depth and kick.</p>

Add a shot of brandy over the fruits to give the drink some depth and kick.

6
<p>Pour an entire bottle of your chosen red wine into the pitcher.</p>

Pour an entire bottle of your chosen red wine into the pitcher.

7
<p>Use a wooden spoon to stir everything together, ensuring the sugar dissolves into the liquid.</p>

Use a wooden spoon to stir everything together, ensuring the sugar dissolves into the liquid.

8
<p>Top with soda water the pitcher to add some fizz.</p>

Top with soda water the pitcher to add some fizz.

9
<p>Add some ice cubes or place the pitcher in the refrigerator for at least two hours to allow the flavors to meld together.</p>

Add some ice cubes or place the pitcher in the refrigerator for at least two hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

10
<p>Fill glasses with ice cubes when ready to serve and enjoy your Sangria.</p>

Fill glasses with ice cubes when ready to serve and enjoy your Sangria.

Sangria Mixers

If you’re short on time but still want to enjoy a quality and authentic Sangria, there are some excellent pre-mixed options. One standout is Beso Del Sol; their red Sangria is made from Spanish Tempranillo wine and has a nice balance of fruitiness and spice. Another reliable choice is the Capriccio Sangria, which packs a punch with its robust flavors and higher alcohol content. But for a top pick, grab a can of Mija Sangria. It’s crafted with 100% fruit juice and comes in a resealable bottle, making it tasty and convenient.

What is a White Sangria

A White Sangria swaps out the traditional red wine for a bottle of white. This change lightens the drink and often brings out more floral and citrus notes. Commonly, fruits like peaches, green apples, and grapes complement the white wine base. It’s popular for those who prefer a less robust, more refreshing beverage.

A Sangria, shot from above, in a pitcher with oranges, lemons and blackberries around, on a white marmol table.

Best Red Wine for Sangria

Choosing the right red wine for your sangria can make a big difference. Skip the expensive bottles; sangria is forgiving and plays well with budget-friendly options. A Spanish red like Tempranillo or Garnacha is ideal. These wines offer a robust but not overpowering fruitiness that melds well with the cocktail’s other ingredients. Brands like Campo Viejo or La Rioja Alta offer reliable choices. A California Zinfandel or an Australian Shiraz can do the trick if you can’t find a Spanish red wine. These wines have the fruit-forward character you need for a balanced sangria. My top pick? Go for a mid-range Tempranillo. It’s a crowd-pleaser and stays true to sangria’s Spanish roots.

What food pairs best with Spanish Sangria?

Sangria pairs with a wide range of foods. For a truly Spanish experience, go for tapas like patatas bravas, manchego cheese, or chorizo. These small bites complement sangria’s bold flavors without overwhelming them. Seafood dishes like grilled shrimp or calamari also make excellent companions, bringing out the citrus undertones in the drink. If you’re firing up the grill, sangria can stand up to smoky flavors too—think grilled vegetables or BBQ chicken.

A Sangria Drink in a pitcher on a white table with some oranges and a plant behind.

Variations

Exploring for unusual and unique twists? We’re thrilled to share a few we relish:

  • Rosé Sangria: Offers a delightful mix of rosé wine with strawberries and raspberries, balancing sweetness and refreshment. I really enjoy the way the berries enhance the rosé’s natural flavors, perfect for a sunny afternoon.
  • Tropical Sangria: Brings a burst of island flavors with pineapple, mango, and coconut water or rum. The tropical fruits add luscious sweetness, while coconut introduces a unique twist. I’m taken with its exotic flair, transporting me to a beach with every sip.
  • Spiced Sangria: Introduces warming spices like cinnamon and star anise, perfect for cooler days or festive occasions, adding a cozy element.
  • Berry Sangria: Focuses on a medley of berries such as blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries, resulting in a deeply flavored and visually appealing mix.
  • Citrus Sangria: Shines with its use of lemons, limes, and oranges, often enhanced by a citrus-flavored liqueur, making it exceptionally refreshing.
  • Apple Cider Sangria: Combines red wine with apple cider, apples, and pears, creating a quintessential fall beverage with a sweet and rustic charm.
  • Sparkling Sangria: Incorporates sparkling wine for a fizzy twist, elevating the experience and making it festive and lively.
  • Peach Sangria: Celebrates the sweetness of ripe peaches, often complemented by peach-flavored liqueur. The peaches lend a soft, aromatic quality, irresistible on a warm day.
  • Melon Sangria: Characterized by melons like cantaloupe and honeydew, offering a hydrating and subtly sweet flavor profile.
  • Cherry Sangria: Includes fresh cherries, and sometimes cherry liqueur, for a tart and vibrant blend, balancing overall sweetness with delightful tartness.
  • Pomegranate Sangria: Uses pomegranate juice and seeds, adding a tangy and antioxidant-rich aspect, contributing to both healthful qualities and striking appearance.
  • Ginger Sangria: Infuses the mix with fresh ginger or ginger liqueur, providing a spicy contrast to the sweetness, invigorating the senses.

A Sangria, shot from above, in a pitcher with oranges, lemons and blackberries around, on a white marmol table.

History and Origin

Sangria traces its roots back to Spain, where it has been a popular beverage for centuries. The name “Sangria” comes from the Spanish word “sangre,” which means blood, a reference to the drink’s deep red color when made traditionally with red wine. While the origins remain murky, people believe that the Romans, who planted vineyards in Spain over 2,000 years ago, played a role in its creation. The Romans likely mixed wine with water and added herbs and spices, laying the groundwork for what would become Sangria.

Over time, as trade and exploration introduced new fruits and flavors to Spain, locals began to enrich this wine mixture with different fruits and sweeteners. The drink gained international attention when it was featured at the 1964 World’s Fair in New York, and since then, it has become a global phenomenon.

 

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FAQ

How many calories are in a glass of Sangria?
A typical glass contains around 150-200 calories, depending on the ingredients.
How strong is Sangria in terms of ABV and proof?
Sangria usually has an ABV of 8-12% and a proof of 16-24.
What type of alcohol is used in Sangria?
Red wine serves as the base, often complemented by brandy.
In what type of glass is Sangria usually served?
Sangria is commonly served in stemless wine glasses or tumblers.
What does Sangria taste like?
It offers a fruity, sweet, and sometimes slightly tart flavor.
What is the ratio of wine to fruit and spirits in Sangria?
A typical ratio is one bottle of wine to one cup of fruit and a shot of spirits.
How is Sangria served in terms of ice and temperature?
Sangria is usually served chilled, often over ice, but not shaken or stirred.

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