The Best Sangria
A rich and fruity party punch that rewards patience. By allowing red wine, sugar, and fresh citrus to macerate for a full day, the base transforms into a flavorful syrup before being brightened with brandy and effervescent soda water.
What it tastes like
This drink carries a heavy aroma of macerated citrus and dark red fruit. The palate is sugary and dense, cut by the sharpness of the lemon and the carbonation of the soda. It has a syrupy mouthfeel that yields to a dry, tannic wine finish with a faint brandy heat.
Flavour profile
Ingredients
- Red Wine1.5 l
- Sugar1 ml
- Lemon1 whole
- Orange1 whole
- Apple1 whole
- Brandy4 oz
- Soda Water12 oz
Preparation
- 1
Wash and slice the lemon, orange, and apple into wedges or chunks.
- 2
In a large pitcher, combine the red wine and sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- 3
Add the cut fruit to the pitcher and submerge in the wine mixture.
- 4
Cover and refrigerate for 18 to 24 hours. The mixture will develop a thick, somewhat syrupy consistency.
- 5
Just before serving, remove from the fridge and stir in the brandy.
- 6
Pour in the soda water gradually, stirring gently, until the drink reaches a thinner, more wine-like consistency.
- 7
Serve immediately in wine glasses, ensuring fruit pieces are included in each serving.
Substitutions
- Red WineDry White Wine — Using a crisp white wine creates a lighter, more acidic profile with prominent stone fruit notes.
- SugarAgave Nectar — Agave nectar dissolves more easily than granulated sugar and adds a subtle earthy undertone.
- BrandyOrange Liqueur — Replacing brandy with orange liqueur increases the citrus intensity and reduces the woody, oaky notes.
- Soda WaterGinger Ale — Ginger ale adds a spicy kick and additional sweetness compared to the neutral bubbles of soda water.
Variations
Spiced Sangria
Add two cinnamon sticks and three star anise to the maceration process for warm, autumnal notes.
Berry Sangria
Swap the apple and lemon for a pint of halved strawberries and a handful of blackberries to emphasize fresh berry tartness.