Homemade Sangria Recipe

Sangria is the perfect drink for warm-weather gatherings and casual get-togethers. Its refreshing flavors and vibrant colors make it a hit at parties, barbecues, and lazy afternoons. This homemade sangria recipe is easy to make, highly customizable, and guaranteed to impress your guests. Here’s how you can craft the ultimate sangria at home.

Ingredients:

• Fruits:

  • 1 orange, thinly sliced

  • 1 lemon, thinly sliced

  • 1 lime, thinly sliced

  • 1 apple, cored and chopped

  • 1 cup berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)

  • 1-2 tablespoons of sugar (adjust to taste)

• Liquids:

  • 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine (a fruity Spanish wine like Tempranillo or Garnacha works best)

  • 1/4 cup brandy

  • 1/4 cup orange liqueur (such as Triple Sec or Cointreau)

  • 2 cups soda water or lemon-lime soda (for a sweeter option)

• Optional:

  • A few sprigs of fresh mint for garnish

  • Additional fruits for garnish (e.g., grapes or pineapple)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fruit:

   • Wash and slice the orange, lemon, lime, and apple. If using berries, rinse them and leave them whole or halve them if they are large.

   • In a large pitcher or bowl, combine all the sliced fruits and berries. Add the sugar and gently stir to coat the fruit.

2. Add the Liquids:

   • Pour the red wine over the fruit mixture. Add the brandy and orange liqueur, stirring well to combine all ingredients.

3. Chill:

   • Cover the pitcher or bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the fruit to infuse the sangria.

4. Serve:

   • Just before serving, add the soda water or lemon-lime soda to the sangria for a refreshing fizz. Stir gently.

   • Serve over ice in glasses. Garnish with additional fruit slices or fresh mint if desired.

5. Enjoy:

   • Sip and savor the delightful blend of fruity flavors and wine. Perfect for any summer occasion or a casual evening at home.

Tips:

• Wine Choice: Choose a wine that you enjoy drinking on its own. A fruity, medium-bodied red wine is ideal, but you can experiment with different types if you prefer.

• Customizations: Feel free to swap out fruits based on your preference or what’s in season. Try adding pineapple for a tropical twist or peaches for a sweet touch.

• Alcohol-Free Option: For a non-alcoholic version, use sparkling grape juice or a non-alcoholic wine and skip the brandy and liqueur.

This homemade sangria recipe is a versatile and crowd-pleasing drink that’s perfect for any occasion. With its bright flavors and eye-catching presentation, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Cheers to delicious homemade sangria!