Sangria Recipe

Red wine: The base of the sangria, providing rich and robust flavors.

Brandy: Adds depth and a slight kick to the drink.

Orange juice: Freshly squeezed for a burst of citrusy sweetness.

Sugar: Sweetens the sangria and balances the tartness of the fruits.

Orange: Sliced to infuse the drink with its bright, citrus flavor.

Lemon: Adds a tangy zest to the mix.

Apple: Provides a crisp and sweet contrast to the citrus fruits.

Club soda: Adds a refreshing fizz just before serving.

When preparing sangria, it's essential to allow the mixture to refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This resting period allows the fruit to infuse its flavors into the wine and brandy, creating a more harmonious and flavorful drink. Additionally, make sure to stir the mixture well before serving to ensure that the sugar is fully dissolved and evenly distributed.

• red wine - Substitute with white wine: If you prefer a lighter flavor, white wine can be used. It will change the color and taste profile but still provide a refreshing drink.

• red wine - Substitute with grape juice: For a non-alcoholic version, grape juice can mimic the flavor of red wine without the alcohol content.

• brandy - Substitute with rum: Rum can add a different depth of flavor and sweetness to the sangria.

• brandy - Substitute with triple sec: Triple sec will add a citrusy note and sweetness, complementing the other fruit flavors.

• freshly squeezed orange juice - Substitute with pineapple juice: Pineapple juice can add a tropical twist and a bit more sweetness.

• freshly squeezed orange juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice will add a more tart and tangy flavor, balancing the sweetness.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can provide a natural sweetness and a slightly different flavor profile.

• sugar - Substitute with agave syrup: Agave syrup is a great alternative for those looking for a lower glycemic index sweetener.

• sliced orange - Substitute with sliced tangerine: Tangerines are similar in flavor but slightly sweeter and can be used interchangeably.

• sliced orange - Substitute with sliced grapefruit: Grapefruit will add a more bitter and tangy flavor, providing a unique twist.

• sliced lemon - Substitute with sliced lime: Lime will add a more intense citrus flavor and a bit more tartness.

• sliced lemon - Substitute with sliced kiwi: Kiwi can add a unique, slightly tart and sweet flavor, along with a different texture.

• cored and sliced apple - Substitute with pear: Pears have a similar texture and sweetness, making them a good alternative.

• cored and sliced apple - Substitute with peach: Peaches add a different sweetness and a slightly softer texture.

• club soda - Substitute with sparkling water: Sparkling water will provide the same effervescence without any added flavors.

• club soda - Substitute with ginger ale: Ginger ale can add a bit of sweetness and a subtle ginger flavor, enhancing the overall taste.

• To store your sangria, transfer it to an airtight container or keep it in the original pitcher, covered tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. This helps to maintain the freshness and prevent any unwanted flavors from seeping in.

• Refrigerate the sangria for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to meld and develop, making it even more delicious over time. However, the club soda should be added just before serving to ensure it retains its fizz.

• If you plan to freeze sangria, pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion. You can also freeze it in individual portions using ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag for easy storage.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the sangria in the refrigerator overnight. If you froze it in cubes, you can add them directly to your glass for a chilled, slushy effect.

• For an extra burst of flavor, consider freezing some of the sliced fruits used in the recipe. These can be added to the sangria when serving, acting as both a garnish and a natural ice cube.

• Always give the sangria a good stir before serving to redistribute the flavors and ensure a consistent taste throughout.

• If you find that the sangria has become too diluted after thawing, you can refresh it with a splash of red wine or brandy to bring back its original zest.

• Pour the leftover sangria into a saucepan and gently heat over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming. Be careful not to let it boil, as this can alter the flavors of the wine and brandy.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the sangria in the microwave. Pour it into a microwave-safe container and heat in short intervals of 20-30 seconds, stirring in between, until it reaches your desired temperature.
• If you prefer a cold sangria, simply pour it over fresh ice cubes. This will chill the drink quickly without diluting the flavors too much.
• For an added twist, you can reheat the sangria with a cinnamon stick or a few cloves to infuse it with a warm, spiced aroma. Remove the spices before serving.
• If the sangria has lost some of its fizz, you can add a splash of fresh club soda just before serving to bring back that refreshing sparkle.

• Large pitcher: To combine and mix all the ingredients together.

• Measuring cup: To accurately measure the brandy and orange juice.

• Measuring spoons: To measure the sugar precisely.

• Citrus juicer: To freshly squeeze the orange juice.

• Cutting board: To slice the orange, lemon, and apple.

• Knife: To slice the fruits.

• Stirring spoon: To mix the ingredients until the sugar is dissolved.

• Refrigerator: To chill the sangria for at least 2 hours or overnight.

• Ice cube tray: To make ice cubes for serving.

• Serving glasses: To serve the sangria over ice.

• Bottle opener: To open the bottle of red wine.

Pre-mix the base: Combine the red wine, brandy, orange juice, and sugar ahead of time and store in the fridge.

Pre-slice fruits: Slice the orange, lemon, and apple in advance and keep them in an airtight container.

Use a large pitcher: A larger pitcher allows you to mix everything at once, saving time on multiple batches.

Chill overnight: Letting the mixture sit overnight enhances the flavors, so you don't need to rush the process.

Add club soda last: Pour in the club soda just before serving to maintain its fizz.