Classic Sangria

Sangria is the wine industry's great democratizer. This fruit-based punch has always been a drink where anything goes, despite the wine industry's long-standing reputation for being stodgy, with self-styled enthusiasts drawing lines in the sand over everything from serving temperatures to glassware shapes.

Classic Sangria Recipe

Sangria, a delightful blend of wine, fruit, and other flavors, has been enjoyed since the Middle Ages, likely originating in Spain and Portugal. While traditionally made with red wine, you can also find refreshing variations using white or rosé. The beauty of Sangria lies in its versatility, allowing you to create a delicious drink tailored to your tastes.

Choosing the Right Wine

When making Sangria, the wine you choose is crucial. Here are some tips for selecting the perfect red wine:

• Dry Wine: A dry wine provides a balanced base, especially since Sangria includes added sugar and fruit, which naturally contains sugars.
• High-Acid Wine: Wines with higher acidity offer a tart, refreshing profile that helps balance the sweetness of the drink. This is essential for a well-rounded cocktail.
• Low-Tannin Wine: Tannins can create bitterness when mixed with other ingredients, so opt for red wines that have seen minimal oak aging.
• Bright Red Fruit Flavors: For a lighter, crowd-pleasing Sangria, choose wines that showcase fresh fruit notes like cherries, strawberries, and cranberries.

Recommended Red Wines

Here are some great options for your Sangria, ranging from lighter to more full-bodied:

• Gamay/Beaujolais: Tart, acidic, and fruit-forward.
• Pinot Noir: Light-bodied and easy to find at a good price.
• Zweigelt: Tart and fruity, often with cherry or cassis notes.
• Grenache/Garnacha: Medium-bodied with rounded fruit flavors; a classic choice for Spanish-style Sangria.
• Barbera: High acidity and lighter tannins, with strawberry and sour cherry notes.
• Tempranillo: A full-bodied Spanish grape with darker fruit and spice notes.

Classic Sangria Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 orange, cut into wedges
• 1 apple, cored and diced
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• ½ cup brandy
• ½ cup orange juice
• 1 bottle dry red wine
• Garnish: Orange wheel

Steps

1. In a large pitcher, combine the sugar, orange wedges, apple, and lemon. Muddle gently for about 30 seconds to release the fruit's juices.
2. Add the brandy and orange juice, and muddle again for another 30 seconds.
3. Pour in the red wine and stir well to combine.
4. Allow the Sangria to rest for at least two hours in the fridge. This resting period lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
5. Serve in red wine glasses over ice garnished with an orange wheel.

Enjoy your refreshing Sangria, perfect for gatherings or warm summer days! Feel free to get creative with additional fruits or flavors as you please. Cheers!