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Classic Red Wine Sangria

classic red wine sangria - featured image

A quick and easy refreshing Spanish cocktail featuring fruity red wine, fresh citrus, berries, and a hint of cinnamon, perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 750 ml red wine (Tempranillo or Garnacha recommended)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) brandy
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1 large orange, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium lemon, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium lime, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 1 small apple, cored and diced (Granny Smith recommended)
  • 1 cup fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated or superfine sugar
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 cup (240 ml) club soda or sparkling water, chilled

Instructions

  1. Wash all fruit thoroughly. Thinly slice the orange, lemon, and lime into rounds or half-moons, removing seeds. Core and dice the apple into small cubes. Rinse and gently pat dry the fresh berries.
  2. In a large pitcher, combine the red wine, brandy, and freshly squeezed orange juice. Stir gently to blend the flavors.
  3. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of sugar over the liquid, then add the cinnamon stick. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves.
  4. Add the sliced citrus, diced apple, and berries into the pitcher. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight, to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Just before serving, pour in 1 cup of chilled club soda or sparkling water to add a light fizz.
  7. Serve over ice cubes, garnished with a fresh mint sprig or an extra citrus slice if desired.

Notes

Use a fruity, low-tannin red wine like Tempranillo or Garnacha. Avoid heavily oaked wines. Let sangria chill for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor. Add ice only just before serving to avoid dilution. Adjust sweetness after chilling if needed. Experiment with spices like star anise or cloves for variation.

Nutrition

Keywords: red wine sangria, classic sangria, summer cocktail, Spanish cocktail, refreshing drink, fruity sangria