Sangria, a traditional Spanish punch, is the perfect party drink for warm weather gatherings. It combines fruity, refreshing flavors with the depth of wine, making it a crowd-pleasing choice for any celebration. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, a casual get-together, or a festive dinner, sangria will elevate the atmosphere. Here’s how to make the best Spanish sangria that will have your guests coming back for more.
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle (750ml) of dry red wine (such as Tempranillo, Merlot, or Cabernet Sauvignon)
- 1/4 cup brandy (optional, but recommended for a richer flavor)
- 1/4 cup orange liqueur (such as Triple Sec or Cointreau)
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp sugar (or more to taste, depending on your sweetness preference)
- 1-2 apples, thinly sliced
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1-2 cinnamon sticks
- 1-2 star anise (optional, for a unique touch)
- 1-2 cups soda water or sparkling water (to top up before serving)
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
Step 1: Choose the Right Wine
Sangria is best made with a good, dry red wine. You don’t need to splurge on expensive bottles, but avoid overly sweet wines. A medium-bodied wine with bright acidity, such as Tempranillo, Merlot, or a Spanish Rioja, will complement the fruit and liqueurs perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare the Fruit
Wash and slice your fruit into thin rounds or wedges. The classic fruits in sangria are oranges, lemons, and apples, but feel free to get creative with additions like berries, peaches, or pineapple for a tropical twist.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large pitcher or bowl, combine the red wine, brandy, orange liqueur, fresh orange juice, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine the liquids and dissolve the sugar completely. Add the sliced fruit, cinnamon sticks, and star anise (if using). These ingredients will infuse the sangria with their flavors as it sits.
Step 4: Let It Chill
Refrigerate the sangria for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight. The longer it sits, the more the flavors will meld together, creating a deliciously rich and aromatic drink. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes of chilling can make a noticeable difference.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
When you’re ready to serve, add ice cubes to glasses and pour the sangria over the ice. Top with soda water or sparkling water to add a refreshing fizz. If you like your sangria stronger, feel free to skip the soda water for a more concentrated drink. Garnish with additional fresh fruit or a cinnamon stick for extra flair.
Tips for the Perfect Sangria:
- Adjust the sweetness: Some people prefer their sangria a little sweeter. If that’s the case, simply add more sugar or honey to taste. You can also use a sweeter wine, but be careful not to overpower the other flavors.
- Experiment with flavors: Try adding different fruits such as berries, pineapples, or even pomegranate seeds. You can also experiment with adding herbs like mint or basil for a fresh twist.
- Add a tropical flair: For a fun spin, replace part of the red wine with a fruity white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or even Prosecco for a sparkling sangria.
- Make it ahead: Sangria is an excellent make-ahead drink. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to deepen. Just remember to add the soda water right before serving so it stays bubbly.
- Add a variety of spirits: If you want to make your sangria more boozy, you can add a splash of rum or flavored liquors such as peach schnapps or apricot brandy.
Why This Sangria is the Best:
This Spanish sangria recipe brings the perfect balance of sweetness, acidity, and depth. The combination of citrus, apple, and the warming spices of cinnamon and star anise gives this sangria an inviting complexity that enhances the rich red wine base. The addition of brandy and orange liqueur elevates the drink with an extra kick, while the fresh fruit makes every sip feel like a mini vacation.
Sangria is a versatile, crowd-pleasing drink that’s perfect for any occasion. This simple, traditional Spanish sangria recipe will add a festive touch to your next party, bringing vibrant flavors and the spirit of Spain right to your table. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ, a holiday gathering, or a dinner party, your guests are sure to love this refreshing and flavorful beverage. Cheers to good times and great sangria!
