Different Ways To Make Sangria

 

The Origin

Sangria originated in Spain, with roots dating back to ancient times. The concept of mixing wine with fruits and spices can be traced to Roman times, when water was often unsafe to drink and was mixed with wine, herbs, and fruits to improve both taste and safety. The version more closely resembling modern sangria began to take shape in Spain, particularly in the regions known for their wine production, such as Rioja. Sangria became widely popular as a refreshing and festive drink, especially during warm weather and social events. It gained international recognition in the mid-20th century, particularly after being featured at the 1964 World’s Fair in New York City, where it was introduced to a broader audience as a representative beverage of Spanish culture.

 

Here are several variations of sangria, each tailored to different flavor profiles, allowing for a diverse and refined experience of this classic beverage in its many complex forms.

 

Classic Red Sangria 

Flavor profile: Fruity, rich, and slightly spiced

 

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle (750ml) dry red wine 

• 1 orange, sliced

• 1 lemon, sliced

• 1 apple, diced

• 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)

• 1/4 cup brandy

• 1/2 cup orange juice

• Sparkling water or club soda (optional, for topping)

• Ice

 

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher, combine the wine, fruits, sugar, brandy, and orange juice.

2. Stir well until sugar dissolves.

3. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (ideally overnight).

4. Serve over ice and top with a splash of sparkling water if desired

 

White Sangria

Flavor profile: Light, crisp, and citrusy

 

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle (750ml) dry white wine 

• 1 peach, sliced

• 1 orange, sliced

• 1/2 cup green grapes, halved

• 1/4 cup peach schnapps or triple sec

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• Club soda or lemon-lime soda

• Ice

 

Instructions:

1. Mix the wine, fruit, sugar, and peach schnapps in a pitcher.

2. Chill in the refrigerator for a few hours.

3. Add soda just before serving over ice.

 

Rosé Sangria

Flavor profile: Refreshing, floral, and mildly sweet

 

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle (750ml) dry rosé wine

• 1 cup strawberries, sliced

• 1/2 cup raspberries

• 1 lemon, thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup elderflower liqueur or vodka

• 1–2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup

• Sparkling water (optional)

• Ice

 

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients except sparkling water in a pitcher.

2. Chill for at least 2–4 hours.

3. Serve with a splash of sparkling water over ice.

 

Sparkling Sangria 

Flavor profile: Bubbly, zesty, and festive

 

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle (750ml) dry sparkling wine

• 1/4 cup orange liqueur

• 1 orange, sliced

• 1 lime, sliced

• 1/2 cup pineapple chunks

• Fresh mint leaves (optional)

• Ice

 

Instructions:

1. Combine the fruits and orange liqueur in a pitcher.

2. Let sit in the fridge for 30–60 minutes.

3. Add the sparkling wine just before serving to preserve the bubbles.