Sangria: A Symphony of Flavours in a Glass – 3 Essential Recipes

Sangria, the quintessential Spanish punch, is more than just a drink—it’s an experience, a celebration of life in a glass. With its roots deeply embedded in the Iberian Peninsula, sangria has evolved into a global phenomenon, celebrated for its vibrant colours, refreshing taste, and endless customisation options. Whether you’re lounging by the beach, hosting a summer gathering, or simply indulging in a quiet evening at home, sangria offers a delicious escape into the flavours of Spain.

The Origins of Sangria

The history of sangria is as rich and colourful as the drink itself. Its origins can be traced back to ancient times when wine was often mixed with water and spices to create a more palatable beverage. The word “sangria” itself comes from the Spanish word “sangre,” meaning blood, likely referring to the deep red colour of the traditional version. Over time, sangria has evolved from a simple wine punch to the beloved drink we know today, with countless regional variations across Spain and Portugal.

The Classic Red Sangria

Traditional sangria is typically made with red wine, making it a robust and fruity concoction that’s both refreshing and full-bodied. A good red sangria balances the acidity of the wine with the sweetness of fresh fruits and the subtle bitterness of orange liqueur. Classic fruits used include oranges, lemons, apples, and berries, each contributing to the overall complexity of the drink.

Recipe: Classic Red Sangria

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle of red wine (Tempranillo or Garnacha)
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1 apple, cored and diced
• 1/4 cup brandy
• 1/4 cup orange liqueur (like Cointreau or Triple Sec)
• 2 tablespoons sugar (optional)
• 1 cup soda water or lemonade (optional)
• Fresh berries (optional)
• Ice

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher, combine the wine, brandy, and orange liqueur.
2. Add the sliced orange, lemon, and diced apple to the pitcher.
3. Stir in the sugar if you prefer a sweeter sangria.
4. Chill the mixture in the fridge for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavours to meld.
5. Just before serving, add the soda water or lemonade for a bit of fizz.
6. Serve over ice, garnished with fresh berries if desired.

White Sangria: A Light and Crisp Alternative

For those who prefer a lighter, crisper version, white sangria is a delightful alternative. Made with white wine, this version is often enhanced with stone fruits like peaches, nectarines, and apricots, as well as citrus and berries. The result is a refreshing, summery drink that’s perfect for warm days.

Recipe: White Sangria

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle of dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
• 1 peach, sliced
• 1 nectarine, sliced
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1/4 cup peach liqueur or brandy
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional)
• 1 cup sparkling water or prosecco
• Fresh berries (optional)
• Ice

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, peach liqueur (or brandy), and orange juice.
2. Add the sliced peach, nectarine, and orange to the mixture.
3. Stir in the sugar if you prefer a sweeter sangria.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavours develop.
5. Before serving, add the sparkling water or prosecco for some bubbles.
6. Serve over ice, with fresh berries as an optional garnish.

Rosé Sangria: The Best of Both Worlds

Rosé sangria is the perfect middle ground for those who can’t decide between red or white. The blush wine offers a balanced profile, with the fruity notes of red wine and the lightness of white. This version pairs beautifully with a wide range of fruits, from strawberries and raspberries to citrus and melon, making it a versatile option for any occasion.

Recipe: Rosé Sangria

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle of dry rosé wine
• 1/2 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/2 cup raspberries
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1/4 cup brandy or elderflower liqueur
• 1/4 cup pomegranate juice
• 2 tablespoons sugar (optional)
• 1 cup sparkling water or soda
• Ice

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher, combine the rosé wine, brandy (or elderflower liqueur), and pomegranate juice.
2. Add the sliced strawberries, raspberries, and orange to the mixture.
3. Stir in sugar to taste.
4. Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours.
5. Before serving, add the sparkling water or soda.
6. Serve over ice, garnished with additional berries if desired.

Sangria Blanca: A Tropical Twist

For a tropical take on the traditional sangria, Sangria Blanca is made with white wine and a mix of tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, and kiwi. This version often includes a touch of coconut rum or a splash of pineapple juice, adding a sweet, exotic flair that’s perfect for a beachside gathering.

Recipe: Sangria Blanca

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle of semi-sweet white wine (Moscato)
• 1/2 cup pineapple, cubed
• 1 mango, peeled and sliced
• 2 kiwis, peeled and sliced
• 1/4 cup coconut rum
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup (optional)
• 1 cup sparkling water or soda
• Ice

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, coconut rum, and pineapple juice.
2. Add the pineapple cubes, mango slices, and kiwi slices to the mixture.
3. Stir in honey or agave syrup if a sweeter taste is desired.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
5. Before serving, add the sparkling water or soda.
6. Serve over ice, with extra tropical fruit for garnish.

Sangria Variations: Experimenting with Flavours

The beauty of sangria lies in its flexibility. You can customise it to suit your taste or the season. Here are some popular variations:

• Sparkling Sangria: Follow the Classic Red or White Sangria recipe, but use a bottle of cava or champagne instead of still wine for a bubbly twist.
• Winter Sangria: Substitute summer fruits with pears, cranberries, and pomegranates. Add spices like cinnamon sticks and star anise to infuse warmth into the drink. A splash of red wine for red or white wine for white sangria can be used as a base.
• Cider Sangria: Use hard apple cider in place of wine. Mix with apples, pears, and a hint of cinnamon for an autumnal flavour.

The Perfect Pairings

Sangria is a social drink, meant to be shared and enjoyed with food. It pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, from tapas like patatas bravas and jamón ibérico to grilled meats and seafood. The fruity, acidic nature of sangria cuts through rich dishes, refreshing the palate with each sip.

Conclusion

Sangria is more than just a drink—it’s a cultural experience, a celebration of flavours and creativity. Whether you prefer the traditional red, the light and crisp white, the fruity rosé, or the tropical Sangria Blanca, there’s a version of sangria that’s perfect for every palate and occasion. So next time you’re in the mood for something refreshing, why not indulge in a glass of sangria and let its vibrant flavours transport you to the sun-drenched landscapes of Spain? Cheers!