Sangria

The Spanish answer to the heat. The name comes from the word 'sangre' (blood), due to the colour of the red wine. The technology is based on maceration: the alcohol extracts aromas from the fruit soaked in the wine, while the fruit absorbs the wine. A well-made Sangria is not wine-flavoured fruit juice, but a new, complex drink.
🕒 Prep Time 15 mins
Total Time 15 mins
🍽️ Servings 6 servings
🔥 Calories 180 kcal
🌍 Cuisine Spanish

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Large pitcher
  • Wooden spoon

Allergen Information

⚠️ Sulphur dioxide (wine)

Instructions

1

Dissolve the sugar in the orange juice and brandy at the bottom of the pitcher.

Tip: Essential oils dissolve more easily in alcohol, which we will extract from the fruit.
2

Throw in the chopped fruits (orange, lemon, apple) and the cinnamon. Press them gently with a wooden spoon.

Tip: The larger the surface area where the fruit flesh meets the liquid, the better the flavour transfer.
3

Pour over the red wine and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (but preferably overnight).

Tip: This resting time is key. Freshly made, you'll just have 'wine with fruit', not Sangria.
4

When serving, top up with cold soda and add ice.

Tip: The soda loosens the drink, making it go down easier in the heat.

Recipe FAQ

What wine should I use?
You don't need the most expensive vintage, but cheap plonk won't do either. A medium-bodied, fruity red wine (e.g., Merlot or young Tempranillo) is the best base.

Ingredients

  • 750 ml Red wine (dry)
  • 100 ml Brandy or Rum
  • 3 tbsp Sugar
  • 2 whole Oranges (juice of one, other sliced)
  • 1 whole Lemon (sliced)
  • 1 whole Apple (diced)
  • 300 ml Soda water
  • 1 stick Cinnamon