Sangria is summer in a glass. It’s fruity, vibrant, and just the right mix of fun and refreshing. With a base of red wine and a generous helping of fresh fruit, it’s the kind of drink that gets better the longer it sits. I’ve made this drink countless times-especially for backyard get-togethers-and I’ve picked up a few tricks that make it extra special every time.
Sangria
Ingredients
Serves: 6-8
Prep time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
You’ll need:
– 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine – something fruity but not too heavy (like Tempranillo, Garnacha, or Merlot)
– 2 oz (60 ml) brandy – adds warmth and depth
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) orange juice – fresh-squeezed if you’ve got it
– 1/4 cup (50 g) sugar – optional, adjust to taste
– 1 orange – sliced
– 1 lemon – sliced
– 1 apple – cored and chopped
– 1 cup (240 ml) lemon-lime soda – adds fizz just before serving
Optional add-ins:
– A splash of triple sec or orange liqueur
– A cinnamon stick for subtle spice
– Fresh berries or seasonal fruit
Method
- Start with the wine. Pour the red wine into a large pitcher. This is your base, so choose one you like to drink on its own.
- Add the brandy and orange juice. Stir them in. If you’re using sugar, toss that in now too. Stir until the sugar fully dissolves. (Tip: Taste here and adjust the sweetness. Some wines are sweeter than others.)
- Chop and drop the fruit. Slice the orange and lemon into rounds or wedges. Dice the apple into small cubes. Add all the fruit to the pitcher. Give it a gentle stir so the fruit gets coated in the wine mixture.
- Chill. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 4 hours-overnight is even better. This resting time lets the fruit release its juices and infuse the drink with flavor.
- Just before serving, add the fizz. Pour in the lemon-lime soda and give it one last stir. The bubbles make it feel extra festive.
Tips & Tricks
– Use ripe, in-season fruit. It’ll be sweeter and juicier, which means more flavor in your Sangria.
– Don’t skip the chill time. That’s when the magic happens. A quick mix-and-serve won’t give you the same depth.
– Skip the soda? You can leave it out for a more traditional version or replace it with sparkling water for a lighter option.
– Making it ahead? Leave out the soda until the last minute so it stays fizzy.
Storage
Leftover Sangria? Pop it in the fridge and it’ll keep for up to 2 days. The fruit might start to get a little soft, but the flavors will still be great. If you know you’ll have leftovers, strain out the fruit before storing to keep the texture fresher.
Serving Suggestions
Sangria is made for sharing. Serve it over ice in wine glasses or tumblers, making sure to scoop in some fruit. It goes great with:
– Spanish-style tapas (think olives, almonds, chorizo)
– Grilled meats or seafood
– Cheese boards with Manchego, Brie, or goat cheese
– Light pasta salads or crusty bread with tomato and garlic
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights with friends on the patio. There’s something about the way the fruit, wine, and citrus come together that just makes people smile.
Variations
White Peach Sangria
– Use a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
– Add sliced peaches and a splash of peach schnapps
– Finish with sparkling water or white grape juice
Berry Rosé Sangria
– Use rosé wine
– Add strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries
– A little elderflower liqueur makes it floral and bright
Spicy Red Sangria
– Stick with red wine
– Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne
– Use tropical fruits like mango or pineapple for contrast
Non-Alcoholic Version
– Mix equal parts grape juice and pomegranate juice
– Add orange juice and lots of chopped fruit
– Finish with sparkling water or soda for fizz
FAQs
Can I use white wine instead of red?
Yes! That’s called Sangria Blanca. It’s lighter and super refreshing-especially with citrus fruits and stone fruits like peaches or nectarines.
Do I have to use brandy?
Nope. You can skip it or swap in triple sec, rum, or even a flavored liqueur like elderflower or peach.
Is sugar necessary?
Not always. If your wine and fruit are sweet enough, you might not need it. Taste before adding!
Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely. Sangria is better when it’s had time to rest in the fridge. Just add the soda right before serving so it doesn’t go flat.
What’s the best wine for Sangria?
Go for something fruity and medium-bodied like Garnacha (Grenache), Tempranillo, or even a Merlot. No need to splurge-save the fancy bottles for sipping.
How do I serve it for a crowd?
Use a big glass pitcher or a drink dispenser with a spout. Keep extra chopped fruit and ice nearby so guests can garnish their own glasses.
Sangria is one of those drinks that’s endlessly adaptable. Once you get the basic formula down-wine, fruit, a splash of something boozy, and a little fizz-you can make it your own. Try different fruits, swap in your favorite wine, or play with flavors depending on the season. However you pour it, it’s always a good time.
