Sangria
A classic Spanish punch made with red wine, fruit, brandy, and orange liqueur. Perfect for summer gatherings and entertaining with its refreshing blend of citrus and stone fruits.
- 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine (young and fruity like Tempranillo or Garnacha)
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) brandy
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) orange liqueur (Triple Sec or Cointreau)
- 1/4 cup (50 g) sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 lime, thinly sliced
- 1 apple, cored and sliced
- 1 peach or nectarine, sliced
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) orange juice
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) soda water or lemon-lime soda (optional)
- ice cubes
- In a large pitcher, combine the red wine, brandy, orange liqueur, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Add the sliced orange, lemon, lime, apple, and peach or nectarine slices to the pitcher. Pour in the orange juice and mix everything together thoroughly.
- Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. For best results, chill for 4 hours or overnight, allowing the fruit to infuse the wine fully.
- Just before serving, add ice cubes to the pitcher and top off with soda water if desired for added fizz. Stir gently to combine.
- Pour the sangria into glasses, making sure to include some fruit slices in each serving. Serve immediately while cold and refreshing.
Chef's Note: Sangria is a beloved Spanish tradition that brings people together on warm summer days. This refreshing punch combines the richness of red wine with fresh citrus and stone fruits, creating a drink that is both sophisticated and approachable. The key to exceptional sangria is allowing sufficient time for the flavors to develop and meld together.
The beauty of sangria lies in its versatility—feel free to adjust the fruit selection based on seasonal availability and personal preference. Some prefer a sweeter version with more fruit juice, while others favor a drier profile with less sugar. The optional soda water adds a refreshing fizz that lightens the drink for summer entertaining. Sangria is best served cold and can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for parties and gatherings. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days, though the flavors are most vibrant when consumed within 24 hours of preparation.
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