Sangria is more than just a drink; it’s a celebration in a glass. It's the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for summer gatherings, holiday parties, or just a relaxing evening at home. This classic Spanish beverage combines the rich flavours of red wine with fresh fruit, a hint of sweetness, and a touch of citrus. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! Here’s how to create a simple red sangria that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients for Simple Red Sangria
To make the perfect red sangria, you’ll need a few basic ingredients:- 1 bottle of red wine (a medium-bodied wine like Merlot or Tempranillo works well)
- 1/4 cup brandy
- 1/4 cup orange liqueur (such as Triple Sec or Cointreau)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 lime, sliced
- 1 apple, cored and diced
- 1-2 cups soda water or sparkling water (optional, for a lighter sangria)
Pro Tip: To ensure you have the freshest and most vibrant flavours, make sure to use ripe, high-quality fruits. You'll find all the essential tools you need, from sharp knives to sturdy cutting boards, right here at our store.
Step-by-Step Sangria
1. Prepare the fruit
Start by slicing your orange, lemon, and lime into thin rounds. Core and dice the apple into bite-sized pieces. Place all the fruit into a large pitcher.2. Mix the sangria
Pour the bottle of red wine over the fruit, followed by the brandy and orange liqueur. Stir in the sugar until it’s fully dissolved. If you like your sangria on the sweeter side, you can add a bit more sugar to taste.3. Let it chill:
Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.4. Add the sparkle:
Just before serving, add the soda water or sparkling water to the sangria if you prefer a lighter drink. Stir gently to combine.5. Serve and savour:
Serve your sangria over ice in your most beautiful wine glasses, garnished with a few extra slices of citrus or a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color.
Serving Tip: Our elegant glass pitchers and wine decanters not only enhance the presentation but also make pouring and serving a breeze.
Make It Your Own
One of the joys of sangria is its versatility. Feel free to experiment by adding different fruits like berries, peaches, or pineapple, or by swapping the brandy for a flavoured liqueur. You can also add a cinnamon stick or a splash of juice to bring in new layers of flavour. For those who prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute the wine with grape juice or cranberry juice, and skip the brandy and liqueur.
Pro Tip: Need some inspiration for variations? You can always crack open a cookbook for ideas to help you create your own signature sangria.
Perfect Pairings
Sangria pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, especially light appetizers and tapas. Consider serving it with a classic paella, alongside a cheese platter, charcuterie, or some fresh bruschetta. Our selection of cheese boards and serving trays will help you create an inviting spread that complements your sangria perfectly.