Paul Kushner
This Spanish drink has been enjoyed for centuries, and for good reason. The sweet and fruity flavor of Sangria makes it the perfect accompaniment to any meal or occasion.
The recipe evolved to include Spanish red wine, brandy, and a variety of fruits. Today, there are countless variations of the classic sangria recipe, but the traditional version remains a favorite.
If you’re looking to make your own classic sangria, the recipe is simple. All you need is a bottle of Spanish red wine, brandy, sugar, and a variety of fruits such as oranges, lemons, and apples. The ingredients are combined and left to sit for several hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
History
Sangria is a popular Spanish drink that has been enjoyed for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to the Iberian Peninsula, where the Romans planted vineyards over 2,000 years ago. At that time, water was unsafe to drink, so it was common to fortify it with alcohol to kill off any bacteria. The first sangrias were likely heavily watered-down mixes of wine, water, herbs, and spices.
The name “sangria” comes from the Spanish word “sangre,” which means “blood.” It is believed that the drink was named after its deep red color, which resembled blood. In its early days, sangria was a simple drink made with red wine, fruit, and a sweetener, such as sugar or honey. Over time, the recipe evolved, and other ingredients were added to create the classic sangria we know today.
Sangria became popular outside of Spain in the 1960s and 1970s, when tourists began flocking to the country’s beaches and resorts. The drink’s refreshing taste and fruity flavors made it a hit with visitors, who brought the recipe back to their home countries. Today, sangria is enjoyed all over the world, and there are countless variations of the classic recipe.
Despite its popularity, sangria remains a quintessentially Spanish drink. It is often served at social gatherings, such as parties and festivals, and is a symbol of Spanish culture and hospitality. If you want to experience a taste of Spain, there’s no better way than to enjoy a glass of classic sangria.
How to Make It
Classic Red Sangria
Making classic sangria is easy and fun, and it only requires a few simple steps. Here's how to make it:
Ingredients
- Red wine (750 ml)
- Brandy (1/4 cup)
- Simple syrup (1/4 cup)
- Orange (1)
- Lemon (1)
- Apple (1)
- Club soda (1 cup)
- Ice (as needed)
Instructions
- Start by preparing the fruit. Wash and slice the orange, lemon, and apple into thin rounds.
- In a large pitcher, combine the fruit, brandy, and simple syrup. Stir well to combine.
- Add the red wine to the pitcher, and stir again.
- Place the pitcher in the fridge and chill for at least 2 hours, or until ready to serve.
- Just before serving, add the club soda and ice to the pitcher. Stir well.
- Pour the sangria into glasses and serve.
Choosing Your Wine
The best wine to use for sangria is a medium-bodied red wine such as a Spanish Rioja or a California Zinfandel. You want a wine that is fruity and not too tannic, as the other ingredients in the sangria will already add sweetness and flavor. You can also use a white wine or a rosé for a lighter, fruitier sangria.
Variations
While classic sangria is always a crowd-pleaser, sometimes it’s fun to mix things up with different variations. Here are some ideas to try:
White Sangria
For a lighter, more refreshing sangria, try making a white sangria. Use a dry white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, and mix it with Cointreau, lemon juice, and a sweetener like simple syrup. Add in sliced peaches, berries, and lime for a burst of flavor.
Cava Sangria
If you’re looking for a bubbly twist on classic sangria, try making a cava sangria. Use a dry cava, which is a Spanish sparkling wine, and mix it with rum, cognac, and a sweetener like simple syrup. Add in sliced oranges, lemons, and apples, along with some berries and a splash of club soda for a fizzy finish.
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