How to Make Authentic Sangria: A Refreshing Summer Drink

Authentic Spanish Sangria is a sophisticated, social beverage steeped in tradition and bursting with fresh flavors. Unlike a typical cocktail, Sangria is a punch, designed to be shared and enjoyed amongst friends and family. Authentic Sangria is a celebration of the seasons. Using fresh, ripe fruits at their peak is essential to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. To make it is super easy too. Freshly diced fruits, like peaches, oranges, and lemons, are combined with red wine and cognac and aromatic spices like cloves and cinnamon sticks. The mixture is chilled for a minimum of a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld and mature, resulting in a truly delicious drink.  Sangria is a cornerstone of Spanish celebrations, adding a touch of festive flair to any gathering. A refreshing drink that will transport you straight to the sunny shores of Spain!

What Is Sangria?

Sangria, a vibrant and refreshing punch, is a staple of Spanish social gatherings, also called Tinto de Verano. Its vibrant red hue, bursting with chunks of fresh fruit, is instantly recognizable. While sources mostly agree that the drink was created in the late 1960s or early 1970s in the northeastern region of Spain, there seem to be many theories on how it was invented.

One theory credits resourceful barkeeps in the region with using their creativity to use up surplus red wine, a common occurrence. Another theory points to visiting tourists seeking a lighter alternative to the traditionally bold Spanish wines.  Regardless of its creator, Sangria's rise to fame was swift. By the 1960s, it had become a symbol of Spanish hospitality and sunshine, a refreshing counterpart to the warm Mediterranean climate. Today, Sangria enjoys international acclaim, with countless variations inspired by the original!

Tips

• Embrace the season and use fresh, ripe fruits like peaches, oranges, lemons, and even berries. Avoid pre-cut or frozen options, as they lack the vibrant flavor and juicy texture that defines authentic sangria.
• Opt for a good quality, young red wine from Spain. Tempranillo or Garnacha are traditional choices, offering a touch of body and complexity without overpowering the fruit. For a traditional touch, add cognac. Alternatively, brandy or rum can be used according to your preference. Avoid sugary liqueurs like triple sec, as they can alter the traditional flavor profile and make the sangria overly sweet.
• Maceration is key! Chill your sangria mixture for at least 2 hours, or even overnight, to allow the fruits and spices to infuse their flavors into the wine. This step is crucial for developing that deep and complex taste.
• Use whole cloves and cinnamon sticks for subtle warmth and depth. Avoid grinding spices, as this can lead to bitterness. Remove the spices before serving to prevent overpowering the other flavors.
• Start with a moderate amount of sugar and adjust to your taste. The natural sweetness of the fruit should play a major role. Remember, authentic sangria leans towards a slightly tart taste.

Is Authentic Sangria Sweet?

Authentic sangria leans towards a slightly tart taste, with the natural sweetness of the fruit playing a major role. The amount of sugar can be adjusted to taste, but it shouldn't be overly sweet.

What Kind of Red Wine Should I Use?

Opt for a young, good-quality red wine from Spain. Tempranillo or Garnacha are traditional choices, offering a light body and fruity notes that complement the sangria.

Do I Need To Cut The Fruit Up Very Small?

No, medium-sized chunks are perfect. This allows the fruit to release its flavor while still offering a pleasant texture when enjoyed.

How Long Does Sangria Need To Sit?

Sangria benefits greatly from maceration. Allow it to chill for at least 2 hours, or even overnight, for the flavors to develop fully.

What Fruits Can I Use?

Traditionally, sangria uses fruits that are in season. Peaches, oranges, lemons, and even berries are popular choices. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite!

What Is Maceration?

Maceration is the process of allowing the fruits and spices to infuse their flavors into the wine over time. This is a crucial step for achieving a deep and complex flavor profile.

How To Store Sangria

Store leftover homemade sangria in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to remove the fruit pieces before storing them to prevent them from becoming mushy and affecting the flavor.

How To Make Authentic Sangria

Step 1

Step 1

Finely dice the peaches and apples. Combine them in a large bowl.

Finely dice the peaches and apples. Combine them in a large bowl.

Step 2

Step 2

Repeat the process with the oranges and lemons.

Repeat the process with the oranges and lemons.

Step 3

Step 3

Using a citrus press or reamer, freshly squeeze in the juice from one lemon and one orange.

Using a citrus press or reamer, freshly squeeze in the juice from one lemon and one orange.

Step 4

Step 4

Pour in the red wine. Then add the cognac.

Pour in the red wine. Then add the cognac.

Step 5

Step 5

Add the whole cloves and cinnamon sticks to the pitcher. Add the sugar to the pitcher and stir gently until fully dissolved.

Add the whole cloves and cinnamon sticks to the pitcher. Add the sugar to the pitcher and stir gently until fully dissolved.

Step 6

Step 6

Cover the pitcher tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours. This allows the fruit and spices to infuse the sangria with their distinct flavors.

Cover the pitcher tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours. This allows the fruit and spices to infuse the sangria with their distinct flavors.

Step 7

Step 7

Remove the sangria from the refrigerator and discard the used spices.

Remove the sangria from the refrigerator and discard the used spices.

Step 8

Step 8

Add ice to the bowl.

Add ice to the bowl.

Step 9

Step 9

Add the soda water and stir.

Add the soda water and stir.

Step 10

Step 10

Pour into glasses and serve.

Pour into glasses and serve.