red sangria cocktail recipe

WRITTEN BY: SCOTT VAN DORT

Sangria is a popular Spanish wine punch that’s loved all across the globe. Just hearing the word “Sangria” is likely to evoke images of sun-drenched afternoons, flamenco guitars, and lively fiestas.

So, what is in a Sangria? Well, that depends on who you ask! You see, while everyone agrees that red wine and fruit are essential, the specific ingredients, including the spices used, vary wildly. 

“You might tell me to put this in my Sangria or that I shouldn’t put that in my Sangria…and you know what? You’re right! Your Sangria is your Sangria,” says Ricardo ‘Rico’ Dynan, Bartender and Absolut Global Brand Ambassador.

Here, we’ll show you how to make a delicious Sangria, including both red and white Sangria batches. Salud!

How To Make Sangria

What You’ll Need

• Paring Knife
• Citrus Elbow (or Citrus Press)
• Jigger or Measuring Instrument 
• Wine Glass
• Bar Spoon

How to Mix

1. Place one Dehydrated Orange Wheel and one Dehydrated Apple Slice at the bottom of a Wine Glass.
2. Measure and pour in Brandy, followed by Orange Liqueur.
3. Use a Paring Knife to cut two slices of Apple and two Orange Wheels.
4. Drop the fruit into the Wine Glass and stir with a Bar Spoon.
5. Pour in Chilled Red Wine.
6. Add a few Ice Cubes.
7. Stir again, then sip and enjoy!

What is a Sangria Cocktail?

Sangria is an alcoholic beverage that originates from Spain and Portugal but is popular all across the world, especially during the summer. Sangria is essentially a Spanish wine punch that’s commonly served in a pitcher. It has a base of red wine and brandy and is filled with lots of fresh chopped fruit. 

What Does Sangria Taste Like?

Sangria is sweet and fruity punch, with accents of citrus and tart apple. Red wine provides a rich, smooth base, while Brandy adds depth and complexity. The result is a delicious, slightly tart but wonderfully balanced punch.

The History of Sangria

Sangria is deeply rooted in Spanish culture and a significant part of the country’s identity. However, its history dates back to ancient times when early Mediterranean civilizations, including the Romans, mixed Water, Wine, Herbs, and Spices to make the water safer to drink, as water during those times wasn’t always safe.

This practice evolved over centuries, with the addition of fruits and sweeteners, eventually creating the drink we know and love today. 

Sangria gained popularity in Spain and Portugal, where it became a staple at social gatherings. By the 1700s, it had spread across Europe, with each region adding its unique twist. The drink even reached the West Indies and the Caribbean.

Modern Sangria is believed to have originated in Spain during the 18th century, mixing Red Wine with Seasonal Fruits, Sugar, and Brandy. These core ingredients have remained consistent; however, many Sangria variations have developed over the years. 

The name “sangria” comes from the Spanish word “sangre,” meaning blood, a nod to the deep red color of the traditional version made with Red Wine.

After its introduction at the 1964 World’s Fair in New York, Sangria gained widespread popularity not only in the U.S. but across the globe, inspiring countless adaptations.

Tips for Making the Perfect Sangria

• Use Soda Water to reduce the intensity
  If you follow our recipe instructions on this page, you’ll end up with a delicious, strong-tasting Sangria with intense flavors. However, as Rico suggests, to reduce the intensity, use equal parts Soda Water and Red Wine. This won’t compromise the taste but will make it more like a Spritzer and add a refreshing effervescence.

  Not sure what a “part” is? Don’t miss our article where we explain “Parts” and how to use parts to measure a cocktail.

• Pick your fruits wisely
  Since Sangria is naturally fruity and sweet, we recommend choosing fruits that are more tart. For instance, Granny Smith Apples will add a pleasant tartness and acidity, preventing it from becoming overly sweet.

• Make a batch of Sangria
  Sangria is the ultimate batch cocktail and is perfect for parties when made ahead of time. Serve your batched Sangria in a large Punch Bowl or Pitcher. Looking for a batch Sangria recipe? Watch the video above where Rico shows how to make a Sangria batch for 6-8 people!

• Refrigerate overnight
  After mixing a batch of Sangria, Rico recommends refrigerating it overnight to let the fruits and alcohol mingle and marinate. Trust us, this will give your Sangria more flavor and depth.

• Chilled Red Wine
  Sangria is best when it’s chilled, so we recommend using Chilled Red Wine. However, you don’t need to do this if you’re making a batch of Sangria and letting it sit in the fridge overnight.
  

Variations of Sangria

• Rico’s White Wine Sangria
  If you love Sangria, then you’ve got to try this White Sangria variation created by Bartender and Absolut Global Brand Ambassador, Rico Dynan. Using the recipe above, simply swap the Cognac for Tequila and Red Wine for Spanish White Wine. Super light, super bright, super fresh – it’s absolutely delicious with flavors and aromas of Tequila mixed with Apple. Watch Rico show you how to make White Sangria.

• Virgin Sangria
  Looking for Sangria without alcohol? Then you’ll love our alcohol-free Sangria recipe. Bursting with fruity goodness, it combines Grape Juice, Soda Water, Apple Juice, Orange Juice, Lemon Juice, and Simple Syrup. Garnish with Lemon, Orange, and Apple slices for a delicious drink everyone will enjoy! Discover our Virgin Sangria recipe.

Serving and Garnish Ideas for Sangria

We recommend serving Sangria in a Wine Glass with a few Ice Cubes.

Although garnish is usually the final step when making cocktails, for Sangria, we recommend adding the Dehydrated Orange Wheel and Dehydrated Apple Slice to your Sangria first. Simply place them at the bottom of your Glass before adding the other ingredients. As you sip your Sangria, the fruits will rehydrate, enhancing the flavors.