Sangria is one of the most distinctive Spanish drinks. Based on red wine, fresh fruit, and citrus, its greatest advantage is that it can be prepared exactly how you like it. Some prefer a drier version, while others opt for a sweeter, fruitier flavor.

This sangria recipe combines classic ingredients with the addition of natural orange juice. This makes it fresher, more aromatic, and has an intensely citrus character. Sicilian blood orange juice also works well here, adding an even more interesting flavor and color.

It's a great drink for summer, a barbecue, a house party or a quiet evening on the terrace.

Sangria recipe – ingredients

Ingredients for a jug of sangria

750 ml dry red wine
150 ml orange or blood orange juice
1 orange
1 lemon
1 small apple
1 peach or a handful of pomegranate seeds
2 tablespoons of cane sugar or sugar syrup
50 ml brandy, rum or cognac
about 200 ml of chilled sparkling water
a few ice cubes
a cinnamon stick or a pinch of cinnamon
fresh mint to serve

Step-by-step sangria recipe

Prepare the fruit

Thoroughly scrub the orange and lemon, then cut them into thin slices or half-slices. Cut the apple into cubes or thin slices. If using a peach, cut it into smaller pieces as well.

Place all the fruit in a large jug. Add sugar or golden syrup and a cinnamon stick. You can lightly mash the fruit with a wooden spoon to help it release its juice and flavor.

Add wine and orange juice

Pour dry red wine and orange juice into a jug. Natural juice works well in this recipe, providing a fresher and more intense flavor than classic drinks made from concentrate.

Add brandy, rum, or cognac as well. Alcohol isn't required, but it gives the sangria a more classic feel.

Mix everything together and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. It tastes best when well chilled, once the fruit has fully absorbed its flavor.

How to serve homemade sangria?

Just before serving, add sparkling water and ice cubes. This will make the sangria lighter and more refreshing.

Serve the drink in large glasses or tall tumblers with pieces of fruit. Fresh mint or an extra orange slice works well here.

Recipe for sangria with fruit – how to modify it?

The biggest advantage of sangria is that it can be prepared in many ways. Recipes for homemade sangria often vary in terms of toppings, types of fruit, and proportions.

Red wine goes great with:

oranges,
lemons,
apples,
peaches,
grenade,
strawberries,
raspberries.

If you prefer a more citrusy flavor, you can increase the amount of orange juice or add a splash of lime juice. Those who prefer sweeter drinks can use more simple syrup or honey.

Spanish sangria recipe – some practical tips

Don't use very expensive wines. Light, fruity, dry red wines work best for sangria.
The best effect is achieved by chilling the drink for a few hours.
Carbonated water should be added only before serving to prevent it from losing its bubbles.
If you are making sangria in the summer, you can also use frozen fruit instead of some of the ice.

It's a simple, effective and very versatile drink that's practically always a good idea when meeting friends.

Sangria – a Spanish recipe with red wine and fruit

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