Sangria Cocktail Recipe

Sangria, a popular Spanish drink, has a rich history dating back to the Roman Empire. It is believed to have been introduced to the Americas by Spanish explorers and colonists. Sangria is typically enjoyed during social gatherings, parties, and festive occasions.

• Originated in Spain
• Popular during the Roman Empire
• Introduced to the Americas by Spanish explorers and colonists

Sangria is a fruity, refreshing, and slightly sweet cocktail with a hint of tartness from the citrus fruits. It is well-balanced, with the wine and fruit flavors complementing each other perfectly.

• Sangria is named after the Spanish word 'sangre,' which means blood, due to its deep red color.
• Traditional Sangria is made with red wine, but variations with white wine and rosé are also popular.
• Sangria is often served in a large pitcher, allowing guests to serve themselves and customize their drink with additional fruit or ice.

1. Prepare the fruit: Slice the orange, lemon, and apple into thin wedges, removing any seeds.
2. Mix the liquids: In a large pitcher, combine the red wine, brandy, orange juice, and lemon juice.
3. Add sugar: Stir in the sugar until it dissolves.
4. Add fruit: Add the sliced fruit to the pitcher, and gently stir to combine.
5. Chill: Refrigerate the Sangria for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
6. Serve: Fill glasses with ice, and pour the Sangria over the ice. Garnish with additional fruit slices if desired.

• Use quality wine: The wine is the base of the Sangria, so use a good quality one. It doesn't have to be expensive, but it should be something you'd enjoy drinking on its own.
• Let it rest: For the best flavor, let the Sangria rest in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
• Customize your fruit: Feel free to experiment with different fruits based on your preference or what's in season.

Tapas

• Chorizo: The spiciness and richness of chorizo cuts through the fruity sweetness of sangria.
• Manchego Cheese: A firm and buttery cheese like Manchego pairs well with the bold flavors of sangria.
• Olives: The briny profile of olives complements the acidity in sangria.

Entrées

• Grilled Steak: The robust nature of red meat pairs beautifully with the hearty red wine base of sangria.
• Paella: The variety of flavors in paella dances well with the complex notes of fruit and brandy in the sangria.

Desserts

• Citrus Sorbet: A refreshing citrus sorbet can cleanse the palate, enhancing the fruit flavors in the sangria.
• Flan: The caramel flavors in a flan complement the sweetness and fruitiness of sangria.

• Wine: You can use white wine or rosé instead of red wine for a different flavor profile.
• Brandy: If you don't have brandy, you can use rum or a fruit-flavored liqueur.
• Sugar: If you prefer a less sweet Sangria, you can reduce the amount of sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey or agave nectar.

White Sangria

Substitute the red wine with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, and swap the brandy for white rum. Add peach slices in addition to the other fruits. This twist offers a lighter, more refreshing take on the classic, perfect for a hot summer's day.

Ingredients: White wine (750ml), white rum (100ml), orange juice (200ml), lemon juice (100ml), sugar (50g), peach (1), orange (1), lemon (1), apple (1), ice.

Sparkling Sangria

Keep the base recipe, but top each glass with a splash of sparkling water or cava before serving. This adds a fizzy dimension that can make the sangria feel even more festive and refreshing.

Ingredients: Red wine (750ml), brandy (100ml), orange juice (200ml), lemon juice (100ml), sugar (50g), orange (1), lemon (1), apple (1), sparkling water/cava, ice.

Spiced Autumn Sangria

For a cozier spin, add a cinnamon stick and a few slices of ginger to the pitcher while it chills. Swap apple slices for pear slices and consider replacing brandy with apple cider. This version brings a warm, spiced character that’s perfect for cooler weather or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients: Red wine (750ml), apple cider (100ml), orange juice (200ml), lemon juice (100ml), sugar (50g), cinnamon stick, ginger, orange (1), lemon (1), pear (1), ice.