Written by 10:37 am Quick & Flavorful Recipes

Classic Red Sangria: A Fruity and Refreshing Party Drink

When it comes to party drinks, nothing beats the vibrant, fruity flavors of a classic red sangria. This Spanish favorite is a crowd-pleaser, combining red wine with a medley of fresh fruits, a splash of brandy, and a hint of citrus. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a festive gathering, or just enjoying a casual get-together with friends, this sangria is sure to elevate the occasion. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, it’s the perfect drink for any celebration.

Ingredients:

  • 1 bottle of red wine (750 ml), preferably a fruity variety like Tempranillo or Garnacha
  • 1/4 cup brandy
  • 1/4 cup orange liqueur (like Triple Sec)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 orange, thinly sliced
  • 1 lemon, thinly sliced
  • 1 lime, thinly sliced
  • 1 apple, cored and cut into thin wedges
  • 1 cup fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
  • 2 cups soda water or club soda
  • Ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Fruit
    In a large pitcher or bowl, combine the sliced orange, lemon, lime, apple wedges, and fresh berries. Gently muddle the fruit with a wooden spoon to release some of their juices, which will infuse the sangria with extra flavor.
  2. Mix the Sangria
    Pour the bottle of red wine over the fruit. Add the brandy and orange liqueur, then stir in the sugar until it’s fully dissolved. Taste the sangria and adjust the sweetness if needed by adding more sugar.
  3. Chill and Infuse
    Cover the pitcher or bowl and refrigerate the sangria for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible. This allows the flavors to meld together and the fruit to infuse the sangria with its natural sweetness and citrusy brightness.
  4. Add the Bubbles and Serve
    Just before serving, stir in the soda water or club soda to add a refreshing fizz. Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the sangria over the ice. Garnish with additional fruit slices or berries if desired.

Why This Recipe Works

Classic red sangria is beloved for its refreshing, fruity flavor and its ability to be easily customized to suit your taste. The combination of red wine with fresh fruit and a splash of brandy creates a drink that’s both flavorful and invigorating. The citrusy elements from the orange, lemon, and lime add a bright contrast to the sweetness of the fruit, while the soda water gives the sangria a delightful effervescence that makes it even more enjoyable.

Making sangria in advance is a great way to simplify party prep, as the flavors deepen and improve after a few hours of chilling. This recipe’s versatility allows you to use whatever fruits are in season or that you have on hand, making it adaptable for different occasions.

Tips for Success

  1. Choose the Right Wine
    Select a fruity red wine for the best results. Wines like Tempranillo, Garnacha, or Merlot work well because they have the right balance of fruitiness and body. Avoid very tannic or overly dry wines.
  2. Adjust the Sweetness
    Depending on your preference and the sweetness of your fruits, you may need to adjust the amount of sugar. Taste the sangria after it’s chilled and add more sugar if necessary.
  3. Let it Chill
    For the best flavor, allow the sangria to chill in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. This lets the fruit flavors fully integrate into the wine and results in a more balanced and flavorful drink.
  4. Customize Your Fruit
    Feel free to experiment with different fruits based on what’s available or what you enjoy. Stone fruits like peaches or plums, or tropical fruits like pineapple, can be great additions.
  5. Serve with Style
    Garnish your glasses with additional slices of fruit or a sprig of mint for a visually appealing presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Red sangria pairs wonderfully with a variety of foods, making it a great choice for entertaining. It’s perfect alongside tapas, such as Spanish tortilla, patatas bravas, or chorizo. It also complements grilled meats, cheese platters, or light salads.

For a festive touch, serve the sangria with colorful paper straws or decorative cocktail stirrers, and set out small plates of snacks or appetizers to enhance your party atmosphere.

This classic red sangria is the perfect drink to serve at any gathering. Its blend of red wine, fresh fruit, and a touch of brandy creates a refreshing, flavorful beverage that’s sure to be a hit with your guests. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, this sangria will quickly become your go-to party drink for all your celebrations.

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