Description
This classic Red Sangria recipe is a refreshing and fruity Spanish-inspired cocktail perfect for parties or a relaxing evening. Made with red wine, fresh fruit slices, a hint of cinnamon, and a splash of brandy and orange liqueur, this sangria is vibrant, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Chill it well and serve over ice, topped with seltzer and rosemary for a sparkling finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruits
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 red apple, cored and thinly sliced into moons
- 1 green apple, cored and thinly sliced into moons
Sweeteners and Spices
- 3-4 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness preference)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
Liquids
- 750 mL red wine (1 bottle, Pinot Noir recommended)
- 1 cup orange juice
- â…“ cup brandy
- ¼ cup orange liqueur (Cointreau recommended)
- Seltzer water, for topping off
Garnish
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
- Extra fruit slices or cinnamon sticks (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit and Sugar: In a large pitcher, combine the thinly sliced orange, red apple, and green apple. Sprinkle 3-4 tablespoons of granulated sugar over the fruit. Stir gently to mix and then let it sit for 20 minutes. This allows the fruit to release its natural juices and helps the sugar to dissolve.
- Add Liquids and Cinnamon: To the fruit mixture, add the 2 cinnamon sticks, 750 mL of red wine, 1 cup of orange juice, ⅓ cup brandy, and ¼ cup orange liqueur (such as Cointreau). Stir thoroughly to combine all the flavors evenly.
- Chill the Sangria: Place the pitcher in the refrigerator and chill for at least two hours to let the flavors meld beautifully. For best results, refrigerate overnight to maximize the fruity depth of flavor.
- Serve and Garnish: When ready to serve, pour the sangria into glasses filled with ice, making sure to include some of the soaked fruit in each glass. Garnish with additional fruit slices or a cinnamon stick if desired. Optionally, top off each glass with a splash of seltzer water and a sprig of fresh rosemary for a sparkling, aromatic touch.
Notes
- Adjust the sugar quantity based on the sweetness of your fruits and personal preference.
- Using Pinot Noir enhances the flavor with its fruity and light profile, but other red wines like Merlot or Tempranillo can also be used.
- Letting the sangria rest overnight intensifies the infusion of flavors.
- Seltzer water is added before serving to keep the sangria sparkling and refreshing — add according to taste.
- If desired, you can substitute brandy with a fruitier spirit like peach schnapps for a twist.
