Sangria is a refreshing alcoholic punch that’s fruity and festive. Originating from Spain, it is now popular all over the world. Sangria is a perfect option when you’re having a big party, because creating a large batch is easy. With this beverage, you don’t have to spend time mixing drinks when you could be having fun. Serve it with a selection of tapas, gazpacho, or a spicy paella.
Unlike many cocktails, Sangria can be made many different ways and in Spain, each town has its own prized recipe. The main components of this drink are red wine combined with a selection of fruit. Additional flavors can then be added to provide its own personality. Common extras might include brandy, sparkling water, sugar, maple syrup and orange juice.
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Sangria Recipe
The choice of wine can have a big impact on your sangria. Choose a cheap bottle, but not too cheap. Pinot noir, Garnacha, Merlot, or Cabernet Sauvignon are all good options. Any dry red wine usually works best. If you remember to chill the red wine in advance, you can skip marinating the fruit and wine – that is, if you’re in a hurry to get started drinking.
Of course, you can use less or more alcohol than what’s in this recipe, depending on your taste preference. For a light, refreshing drink then half a bottle of red wine. If you’re looking to have a fun-filled night of partying, you could add a full bottle, as well as some additional liquors!
Recipe
Red Wine Sangria
Ingredients
- 1 orange sliced with peel on
- 1 lime sliced
- 5 apricots halved and pitted
- 1 medium apple cored and thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- ½ cup orange juice
- 1 bottle Pinot Noir chilled
- ½ cup brandy or Kirsch
- 1 cup saprkling water
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 1 cup fresh strawberries
- 1 cup ice cubes
Instructions
- Add all the ingredients except the ice to a large pitcher and stir to combine.
- Refrigerate for 2-6 hours to give the fruit a chance to marinate.
- Remove from the fridge, add ice and serve.
There are few rules, if any, when it comes to fruit choice. In-season produce that is dripping with juice and bursting with flavor will improve your sangria. Berries in summer are delicious but apple and pear combine well in the cooler months.
The level of sweetness comes down to personal preference. Once the sangria is mixed, do a quick taste test. If necessary, add more maple syrup until it’s how you like it.
Recommended reading:
How to make Irish coffee
How to make a whiskey sour
Do you have a special ingredient that has to go into your sangria? Share it with us in the comments below.
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