Classic Red Sangria Recipe: Easy & Delicious Spanish Wine Punch for Any Occasion
Planning a get-together or simply craving a refreshing, fruity drink? This classic red sangria recipe is your perfect solution! Inspired by traditional Spanish flavors, this delightful wine punch combines a robust red wine with fresh, vibrant fruits and a touch of sweetness. It’s an effortless crowd-pleaser that promises to elevate any party or quiet evening alike. Prepare to impress your guests with this beautifully balanced and wonderfully easy-to-make sangria.
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About This Classic Red Sangria
There’s nothing quite like a pitcher of vibrant, ruby-red sangria to instantly transform any gathering into a festive occasion. This beloved Spanish wine punch, steeped in tradition, is far more than just wine and fruit. It’s an artful blend where robust red wine mingles with generous chunks of fresh, seasonal fruit and a warming kick of brandy, creating a symphony of flavors that’s both complex and incredibly refreshing.
The true magic of an exceptional sangria lies not in overly complicated ingredients, but in the simple act of time. Allowing the chopped apples, oranges, and lemons a few hours – or ideally, overnight – to luxuriate in the wine is absolutely essential. During this patient chilling period, a delightful transformation occurs: the fruit gradually absorbs the rich, boozy notes of the wine, becoming wonderfully infused and tender, while the wine itself mellows and takes on an exquisite, fruity depth. A strategic splash of brandy then adds an extra layer of warmth and sophistication, elevating the drink far beyond a mere glass of red wine.
I can confidently say that this classic red sangria recipe has been a consistent showstopper at countless parties and dinners I’ve hosted. Its enduring popularity stems from its unique ability to feel special and indulgent, yet remain wonderfully unfussy and approachable. There’s an undeniable joy in savoring the wine, then delighting in the sweet, wine-soaked fruit pieces discovered at the bottom of your glass.
Beyond its irresistible taste, one of the greatest advantages of this sangria is its make-ahead potential. In fact, prepping it hours in advance or even the day before is highly recommended, as it allows the flavors to truly meld and intensify. This convenient aspect makes entertaining significantly less stressful, freeing you up to enjoy your guests and the festivities rather than being stuck in the kitchen. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that embodies both elegance and ease.
Ingredients for Red Sangria
Creating an authentic and delicious red sangria starts with selecting quality ingredients that complement each other. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
- Red Wine: The foundation of your sangria! Opt for a dry, fruit-forward Spanish red wine. Excellent choices include Rioja, Garnacha (Grenache), or Tempranillo. These wines typically offer approachable tannins and delightful berry notes that marry beautifully with the fresh fruit. Avoid using overly expensive wines, as the fruit and brandy will transform the flavor profile. A good mid-range bottle (around $10-$15) will deliver the perfect base.
- Brandy: This is the traditional spirit used to fortify and deepen the flavors of sangria, lending a warm, complex undertone. If brandy isn’t available or you prefer a different profile, an orange liqueur like Grand Marnier or Cointreau makes an excellent substitute, adding bright citrus notes. Dark rum can also be used for a slightly different, warmer character.
- Oranges: Essential for both sweetness and a vibrant citrus aroma. You’ll be using fresh, ripe oranges – one for juicing to provide a concentrated citrus base, and the other sliced to add beautiful visual appeal and infuse the wine with zesty flavor as it chills. Always choose firm, brightly colored oranges for the best results.
- Apple: Apples contribute a lovely crisp texture and subtle sweetness that absorbs the wine wonderfully. While any favorite apple will do, red varieties like Gala, Honeycrisp, or Red Delicious tend to look best in the pitcher and offer a pleasing balance of sweetness and tartness. Chop them into bite-sized pieces for easy enjoyment.
- Lemon: Fresh lemon slices are key to balancing the sweetness of the other fruits and simple syrup. The tartness of the lemon adds a refreshing zing that brightens the entire drink, preventing it from becoming cloyingly sweet.
- Simple Syrup: This allows you to control the sweetness of your sangria precisely. While a small amount is used initially to balance the flavors, you can always add more to taste after chilling, if you prefer a sweeter beverage. Simple syrup is easy to make at home by dissolving equal parts sugar in hot water, then cooling.
- Ice: To serve! While the sangria itself should be thoroughly chilled, serving it over fresh ice ensures it stays cold and refreshing in your glass without diluting the vibrant flavors excessively.
Essential Equipment for This Recipe
One of the beauties of making red sangria is that you don’t need a lot of specialized kitchen gadgets. The simplicity of the process reflects the drink’s laid-back, festive nature. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Large Pitcher: A sturdy glass pitcher (at least 2-quart capacity) is ideal for mixing and chilling your sangria. Glass allows you to admire the beautiful colors of the wine and fruit, adding to the visual appeal. Ensure it has a lid or can be covered tightly with plastic wrap for chilling.
- Wooden Spoon: A long-handled wooden spoon is perfect for stirring all the ingredients together in your pitcher. Its length makes it easy to reach the bottom, ensuring everything is well combined without scratching the pitcher.
When it comes to serving, you have options! I personally love using stemless wine glasses for a modern, casual feel, but traditional stemmed wine glasses, punch glasses, or even sturdy tumblers work perfectly. The most important thing is that your chosen glassware allows plenty of room for both the sangria and a generous scoop of the delicious, wine-soaked fruit.
Here’s How to Make Red Sangria
Making classic red sangria is incredibly straightforward, but following these steps ensures maximum flavor and enjoyment:
1. Prepare the Oranges
Take one of your ripe oranges and juice it directly into your large pitcher. The fresh juice forms a sweet and tangy base for your sangria. Next, slice the remaining orange into thin rounds or half-moons. These slices will not only add more citrus flavor as they infuse but also make for a beautiful presentation in the pitcher and in your serving glasses.
2. Combine Ingredients
Into the pitcher with the orange juice and slices, add your chosen red wine, brandy (or alternative liqueur), the chopped apple, and the lemon slices. Pour in the initial 1/2 oz of simple syrup. Using your long wooden spoon, stir all the ingredients together thoroughly. Ensure the fruit is well-submerged in the liquid to begin the infusion process.
3. Chill to Perfection
This is the most crucial step for developing deep, rich flavors. Cover your pitcher and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours. However, for truly spectacular sangria, an 8-hour chill time is highly recommended, and letting it sit overnight (12-24 hours) is even better! This extended period allows the fresh fruit to release its juices and fully infuse the wine and brandy, creating a harmonious and complex flavor profile. When ready to serve, give it a final stir, then pour generously over ice into individual glasses, ensuring each serving gets a delightful mix of the wine-soaked fruit.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Sangria
While sangria is wonderfully forgiving, a few simple tips can elevate your homemade batch from good to absolutely outstanding:
- Use Ripe, High-Quality Fruit: This cannot be stressed enough! The flavor of your sangria is profoundly dependent on the quality of your fruit. Be sure to select oranges, apples, and lemons that are fully ripe, fragrant, and free of blemishes. Underripe or bland fruit will result in a sangria that lacks vibrant flavor and sweetness. Think of the fruit as a primary flavoring agent, not just a garnish.
- Do Not Skip the Chilling Time: Patience is truly a virtue when it comes to sangria. The chilling period is absolutely vital. This isn’t just about getting the drink cold; it’s when the magic of infusion happens. The fruit slowly releases its natural juices and aromas into the wine, while also soaking up the alcohol. A minimum of 2 hours allows for some flavor melding, but 8 hours or even letting it sit overnight (up to 24 hours) will yield a far more complex, integrated, and delicious sangria. Plan ahead!
- Serve Over Ice, But Don’t Chill With It: Add ice to individual serving glasses just before pouring the sangria. Avoid adding a large quantity of ice directly to the pitcher of sangria while it’s chilling. This prevents excessive dilution of your beautifully infused drink, especially if it sits for a long time.
- Taste and Adjust Sweetness: Everyone has a different preference for sweetness. After the initial chilling period, give your sangria a taste test. If you desire it sweeter, add more simple syrup, 1/2 oz at a time, stirring well after each addition and tasting before adding more. Remember, it’s easy to add sweetness, but impossible to take it away!
- Garnish Generously: Don’t underestimate the power of presentation. Before serving, give your sangria a final stir and add a few extra fresh fruit slices (like orange or lemon rounds) and perhaps a sprig of fresh mint or a few berries to the pitcher or individual glasses. This makes the drink look even more inviting and festive.
Delicious Sangria Variations
One of the best things about sangria is its versatility! Once you have the classic recipe down, don’t hesitate to experiment with different additions and twists:
- Make It Bubbly: For an extra festive touch and a lighter feel, top off individual glasses of sangria with a splash of something bubbly right before serving. Club soda, sparkling water, ginger ale, or even a dry sparkling wine like Cava will add effervescence and a delightful fizz to the drink.
- Use Warming Spices: To give your sangria a cozy, autumnal or holiday vibe, add a couple of cinnamon sticks and a star anise pod (or a few whole cloves) to the pitcher along with the fruit and wine. Let them infuse during the chilling process. This will impart a subtle, warming hint of spice that is truly magical.
- Experiment with Other Spirits: While brandy is traditional, feel free to swap it out for other spirits. Dark rum can add a deeper, molasses-like warmth, while gin can introduce botanical notes. For a lighter, more citrusy kick, additional orange liqueur or even a touch of triple sec works beautifully.
- Tropical Twist: Replace some of the classic fruits with pineapple, mango, or even kiwi for an exotic, tropical sangria perfect for summer.
- Herbal Infusions: A few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme can add an unexpectedly sophisticated and aromatic dimension to your sangria. Add them during the chilling process and remove before serving if you prefer a less intense herbal note.
- White Sangria: Don’t forget white sangria! It follows the same principles but uses a dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio) and typically lighter fruits such as peaches, green apples, and white grapes.
More tasty sangria recipes to sip on: Christmas Sangria | Big Batch Holiday Sangria | Single Serve Sangria | Valentine’s Day Sangria
Can Sangria Sit Overnight?
Absolutely, and it’s highly recommended! In fact, allowing this red sangria to sit overnight in the refrigerator is the secret to achieving the most robust and well-integrated flavors. While a minimum chill time of 2 hours will get the process started, an ideal infusion time ranges from 8 to 24 hours. During this extended period, the fresh fruit has ample opportunity to truly meld with the wine and brandy, releasing its natural sweetness and tartness, and absorbing the alcohol to become wonderfully flavorful.
This make-ahead capability is one of sangria’s greatest strengths, making it a perfect choice for parties and entertaining. You can prepare it the day before your event, cover it tightly, and simply let it chill. This frees up your time on the day of the gathering, allowing you to focus on other preparations or simply relax and enjoy. The sangria will taste even better after a long chill, and it can be stored safely in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. After 48 hours, the fruit may start to break down and the flavors can become less fresh, so it’s best consumed within two days.
What Type of Red Wine Should I Use?
Choosing the right red wine is crucial for a great sangria, but it doesn’t mean breaking the bank. The best wines for red sangria are generally dry, fruit-forward, and have good acidity to stand up to the added fruits and spirits. Here are some excellent choices:
- Spanish Dry Red Wines: These are traditionally used and often the best fit. Look for:
- Tempranillo: A classic Spanish grape, Tempranillo offers flavors of cherry, plum, and often a savory, earthy note. It’s a fantastic base for sangria due to its moderate tannins and fruitiness.
- Rioja: Often a blend dominated by Tempranillo, Rioja wines are known for their vibrant fruit and sometimes a hint of vanilla or spice from oak aging. They are usually well-balanced and flavorful without being overpowering.
- Garnacha (Grenache): This grape provides juicy red fruit flavors like raspberry and strawberry, along with a pleasant spiciness. It tends to be a softer, more approachable red, which works beautifully in sangria.
- Other Fruit-Forward Reds: If Spanish wines are hard to find, look for other dry, medium-bodied red wines that are high in fruit notes and low in heavy tannins.
- Merlot: Often soft, with plum and black cherry flavors.
- Pinot Noir: Lighter-bodied with bright red fruit and earthy undertones.
- Zinfandel (lighter styles): Can offer jammy fruit and spice.
Key Considerations:
- Don’t buy expensive wine: Since you’re infusing it with fruit and adding brandy, the nuanced flavors of a premium wine will be largely masked. A good quality, mid-range bottle (around $10-15) that you would enjoy drinking on its own will suffice.
- Avoid overly tannic wines: Wines that are very tannic (like some young Cabernet Sauvignons or Syrahs) can become astringent when mixed with fruit and chilled. Stick to wines with softer tannins.
- Check the sweetness: Ensure you choose a “dry” red wine. Sweet or dessert wines will make your sangria overly saccharine, especially once you add simple syrup.
The goal is a wine that serves as a solid, flavorful base without overpowering the fresh fruit and brandy. Choose something with good flavor that you genuinely like!
What Fruit Goes in Red Wine Sangria?
The beauty of red wine sangria lies in its adaptability when it comes to fruit. While this recipe traditionally calls for oranges, apples, and lemons, these are just a starting point. Feel free to unleash your creativity and incorporate a variety of seasonal fruits to customize your sangria to your taste or the season!
Classic Fruits (as used in this recipe):
- Oranges: Provide a sweet, citrusy base and vibrant color. Using both juice and slices maximizes flavor and visual appeal.
- Apples: Add a crisp texture that softens beautifully as it soaks up the wine, along with a subtle sweetness. Red varieties look great.
- Lemons: Essential for balancing the sweetness with a refreshing tartness, brightening the overall flavor profile.
Other Fantastic Fruit Additions:
- Berries: Blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries are all excellent choices. They release their juices readily, infusing the sangria with their sweet-tart flavors and beautiful hues. Blueberries also work well for a burst of color and subtle sweetness.
- Stone Fruits: In the warmer months, sliced peaches, nectarines, and plums are incredible additions. Their juicy, sweet flesh pairs wonderfully with red wine. Just make sure they are ripe!
- Tropical Fruits: For an exotic twist, consider adding chunks of pineapple, mango, or even sliced kiwi. These fruits can bring a bright, tangy, and sometimes creamy texture to the mix.
- Pears: Sliced pears offer a softer texture and a delicate sweetness, particularly good in fall or winter sangrias.
- Pomegranates: Pomegranate arils add a burst of jewel-toned color and a tart, juicy crunch, especially lovely for holiday sangrias.
- Cherries: Fresh or frozen (pitted) cherries contribute deep color and a rich, sweet flavor.
- Limes: If you want to lean into more tart citrus, add a few lime slices alongside or instead of lemon.
Tips for Fruit Preparation:
- Wash thoroughly: Always wash all fruits thoroughly before slicing or chopping.
- Cut uniformly: Cut fruits into similar, bite-sized pieces to ensure even infusion and make them easy to eat in a glass.
- Consider seasonality: Using fruits that are in season will ensure the best flavor and freshness for your sangria.
- Don’t overcrowd: While you want plenty of fruit, don’t overfill the pitcher. Leave enough room for the wine and other liquids to fully submerge the fruit.
Ultimately, the best fruit for your red wine sangria is whatever you love most! Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect combination.
How Do I Make This Red Sangria Sweeter?
The beauty of making sangria at home is the ability to customize its sweetness level to your exact preference. This recipe includes a foundational amount of simple syrup to balance the flavors, but if you find yourself craving a sweeter sip, here’s how to adjust it:
- Taste After Chilling: The most important step is to always taste your sangria *after* it has fully chilled for at least 8 hours (or overnight). The flavors will have melded, and the fruit will have released its natural sugars, giving you the most accurate assessment of its current sweetness.
- Add Simple Syrup Gradually: If you determine it needs more sweetness, reach for your simple syrup. Add it in small increments, about 1/2 ounce (or 1 tablespoon) at a time. Stir the sangria thoroughly after each addition, then taste again. This gradual approach is key because it’s easy to add more sweetness, but impossible to remove it once it’s in the drink!
- Consider Other Sweeteners: While simple syrup is preferred for its seamless integration, you can also use other liquid sweeteners if you prefer:
- Honey: Will add a distinct floral note. Warm it slightly to make it easier to mix.
- Agave Nectar: A neutral-tasting sweetener that dissolves easily.
- Fruit Juice: For a natural sweetness boost, you could add a splash of orange juice, grape juice, or even a berry juice. This will also deepen the fruit flavor.
- Sweeten Naturally with Fruit: If you know you prefer a very sweet sangria from the outset, you can incorporate sweeter fruits into your mix. For example, using sweeter apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji, or adding more ripe berries and peaches, will naturally increase the sugar content as they infuse.
Remember, the goal is a balanced sangria where the fruit, wine, and sweetness all complement each other. Start with less and add more until you hit your personal sweet spot!
Need more inspiration for a sweet treat? Check out my dessert recipes page!
What to Serve with the Best Sangria Recipe
This classic red sangria is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide array of dishes, making it perfect for anything from a casual get-together to a more elaborate dinner party. Its fruity, refreshing profile means it can complement both light appetizers and heartier main courses. Here are some of our favorite recipes to pair with this delightful Spanish drink:
- Appetizers (aka Tapas!): Embrace the Spanish spirit and serve your sangria with a selection of tapas. If you’re interested in hosting a tapas party, I’ve got tons of recipes to choose from! Imagine sipping sangria alongside savory bites like blistered shishito peppers, rustic pan con tomate, flavorful garlic herb shrimp, or spicy patatas bravas. For simpler, yet equally delicious options, consider a beautifully arranged charcuterie board featuring Spanish cheeses and cured meats, or sweet and savory bacon-wrapped dates.
- Red Meat: Beef is a timeless pairing with red wine, and sangria is no exception. The fruitiness of the sangria can beautifully cut through the richness of red meat. Try it with a perfectly cooked ribeye steak, which brings out the savory notes of the wine, or a succulent grilled New York strip steak for a hearty and satisfying meal. The acidity and fruit in the sangria provide a delightful contrast to the robust flavors of the beef.
- Shrimp or Fish: While red wine is traditionally less common with seafood, the light, fruity, and citrusy elements of this particular sangria make it a wonderful exception! It pairs surprisingly well with certain shrimp and fish dishes, especially those with bright flavors. Consider a roasted lemon garlic shrimp pasta, where the citrus notes echo those in the sangria, or a flaky baked lemon garlic salmon. The sangria’s refreshing qualities can complement the delicate flavors of seafood without overpowering them.
- Desserts: While often served before or during the main course, sangria can also pair beautifully with lighter desserts, especially those featuring fresh fruit. A simple fruit tart or a light citrus sorbet would be a lovely finish to a meal featuring sangria.
How to Store Leftover Sangria
If you happen to have any of this delicious red sangria left over (a rare occurrence!), it can be stored properly to enjoy later. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigeration: Transfer any remaining sangria, including the fruit, into an airtight pitcher or container. Store it in the refrigerator.
- Duration: Leftover sangria will maintain its best quality for up to 48 hours in the refrigerator. While it can technically last a bit longer, the fruit will start to become mushy and may affect the overall freshness of the drink after two days.
- Best Served Fresh: Keep in mind that sangria is always at its peak flavor and freshness when served within the optimal chilling window (8-24 hours). While leftovers are still enjoyable, the fruit’s texture might change slightly after prolonged storage.
If you anticipate having a lot of leftovers, you can consider straining out the fruit after 24 hours to prevent it from breaking down too much, then storing the liquid sangria on its own. However, part of the charm of sangria is the boozy fruit, so many prefer to keep it all together!
More Big Batch Cocktails to Try
If you love the convenience and festive nature of big batch cocktails like this classic red sangria, you’re in luck! There are plenty of other delicious recipes perfect for entertaining a crowd without constant bartending. Here are some more of my favorite large-format drinks:
- Spiced Rum Punch: This punch is an explosion of cozy, winter warming spices perfectly balanced with bright citrus notes. It’s a bold and flavorful drink that’s absolutely ideal for holiday parties or any gathering that calls for a touch of warmth and cheer. Its complex layers of flavor make it a sophisticated yet easy option.
- Christmas Punch: Need a festive drink in a flash? This Christmas punch is an incredibly easy recipe designed for holiday gatherings. The best part? It literally takes only 5 minutes to whip up, leaving you more time to enjoy the festivities and your guests!
- Raspberry Vodka Lemonade: For those warmer days and backyard barbecues, a refreshing glass of raspberry vodka lemonade is simply unbeatable. Its bright, zesty, and fruity flavors make it the perfect pairing for summertime fun and outdoor entertaining.
Finally, if you make this classic red sangria recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a star recipe rating on the recipe card and/or leave a comment below! I absolutely adore hearing about your experiences in the kitchen, and I make it a priority to respond to every single comment. Your feedback is invaluable and truly brightens my day.
Feel free to drop any questions you might have in the comments section below – I’m here to help!
Oh, and be sure to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you whip up this recipe! Seeing these recipes come to life in your homes is one of my favorite things; I genuinely love looking through all those wonderful photos. It truly means the world to me!
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Classic Red Sangria Recipe Card
Equipment
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Pitcher
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long wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 1 750 ml dry red Spanish wine Rioja, Garnacha, or other Spanish red
- 1/2 cup brandy
- 2 oranges one juiced, one sliced
- 1 large apple chopped
- 1 small lemon sliced into rounds
- 1/2 oz simple syrup + more to taste if desired
- Ice for serving
Instructions
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Juice one orange directly into a large pitcher. Slice the other orange into rounds and add these slices to the pitcher.
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Add the red wine, brandy, chopped apple, sliced lemon, and the initial 1/2 oz of simple syrup to the pitcher. Stir all the ingredients thoroughly to combine them.
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Cover the pitcher and chill for at least 2 hours. For optimal flavor development and infusion, chilling for 8 hours or up to overnight (24 hours) is highly recommended. The longer it chills, the more the flavors will meld.
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After chilling, taste the sangria. If you prefer it sweeter, add more simple syrup, 1/2 oz at a time, stirring and tasting after each addition until your desired sweetness is reached.
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Serve the sangria poured over ice in individual glasses. Make sure to include plenty of the delicious, wine-soaked fruit in each serving!