Ingredients
For the Sangria
- 1 bottle (750ml) dry red wine (Tempranillo, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Rioja)
- ¼ cup (60ml) brandy
- ¼ cup (60ml) orange liqueur (such as Triple Sec)
- ¼ cup (60ml) fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar or honey
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 lime, thinly sliced
- 1 apple, diced
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup seedless grapes
For Serving
- 2 cups sparkling water or lemon-lime soda
- Ice cubes
- Fresh fruit for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
Wash all fruit thoroughly.
Slice the orange, lemon, and lime into thin rounds.
Dice the apple and slice the strawberries.
Place all the fruit into a large pitcher.
Step 2: Mix the Sangria
Pour into the pitcher:
- Red wine
- Brandy
- Orange liqueur
- Orange juice
Add the sugar or honey and stir until dissolved.
The combination of wine, citrus, and spirits creates the classic sangria flavor profile.
Step 3: Chill
Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
This resting time allows the fruit to infuse the wine and creates a richer, more balanced flavor.
Step 4: Add Sparkle
Just before serving, stir in the sparkling water or lemon-lime soda.
This adds a refreshing fizz and lightens the drink.
Step 5: Serve
Fill glasses with ice.
Pour the sangria over the ice, making sure each glass gets plenty of fruit.
Garnish with additional citrus slices or fresh berries if desired.
Serve immediately.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for parties and gatherings
- Easy to prepare ahead of time
- Refreshing and fruit-filled
- Beautiful presentation
- Easily customizable
- Great for warm-weather entertaining
Delicious Variations
Berry Red Sangria
Add blackberries, raspberries, and blueberries.
Peach Sangria
Include fresh peach slices and peach schnapps.
Tropical Sangria
Add pineapple chunks, mango, and a splash of coconut rum.
Spiced Winter Sangria
Add cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cranberries.
Citrus Lovers’ Sangria
Increase the amount of orange, lemon, and lime for a brighter flavor.
Expert Tips
Use a Good Wine
Choose a wine you enjoy drinking on its own. It doesn’t need to be expensive, but quality matters.
Let It Chill
The longer the sangria rests, the more flavorful it becomes.
Add Bubbles Last
Sparkling water or soda should be added right before serving to maintain carbonation.
Taste Before Serving
Adjust sweetness with additional sugar, honey, or fruit juice if desired.
Serve Cold
Sangria is best served thoroughly chilled over plenty of ice.
Storage
Store leftover sangria covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
The fruit may soften over time, but the flavor will continue to develop.
Serving Suggestions
Red Sangria pairs wonderfully with:
- Tapas
- Grilled chicken
- Paella
- Cheese boards
- Charcuterie platters
- Fresh fruit
- Seafood dishes
- Mediterranean appetizers
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 0g
This Red Sangria is fruity, refreshing, and wonderfully easy to make. Filled with wine-soaked fruit and bright citrus flavors, it’s the ultimate make-ahead party drink that brings a touch of Spanish-inspired elegance to any gathering.
