If you are searching for a refreshing and vibrant drink to elevate your next gathering, this Red Sangria (Red Wine) Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining the deep richness of cabernet with the sweet tang of fresh fruits and a splash of blackberry brandy, this sangria bursts with flavor and color in every sip. Whether you’re lounging on a sunny afternoon or hosting a festive evening, this sangria is guaranteed to become your go-to favorite, effortlessly balancing fruity freshness with a subtle spice twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the secret to achieving the perfect balance of taste, texture, and vibrant color in your sangria. Each component plays a unique role, from the bold wine base to the lively fruit notes and the gentle effervescence added last minute.
- 750 ml Cabernet: Choose a cabernet with spice notes to add depth and warmth to your sangria.
- 1 cup blackberry brandy: Adds a luscious, fruity richness that beautifully complements the wine.
- 2 ounces simple syrup (optional): Provides a touch of sweetness for those who prefer a slightly sweeter sangria.
- 1 cara cara orange: Offers bright citrus flavor with a hint of berry-like sweetness.
- 2 gala apples (chopped): Brings crisp texture and subtle sweetness.
- 2 cups blackberries: Contributes juicy bursts of tartness and a beautiful dark hue.
- 2 cups strawberries (hulled): Adds fresh, bright flavor and vibrant red color.
- 2 cinnamon sticks: Gives a gentle warm spice that rounds out the fruitiness.
- 1 liter lemon-lime soda: Adds effervescence and a zesty brightness when served.
- Ice: Keeps everything refreshingly chilled on serving.
How to Make Red Sangria (Red Wine) Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
Start by placing all the ingredients except for the lemon-lime soda and ice into a large pitcher. This includes the cabernet, blackberry brandy, simple syrup (if using), the sliced cara cara orange, chopped gala apples, blackberries, strawberries, and cinnamon sticks. Mixing these together early allows the flavors to marry beautifully.
Step 2: Chill and Marinate
Pop the pitcher into the refrigerator and let it chill for at least a couple of hours. The real magic happens when the sangria rests overnight or even up to two days, as the fruit infuses the wine creating a deeper, more harmonious flavor that will captivate your guests.
Step 3: Add Soda and Serve
Just before serving, pour in the lemon-lime soda to introduce refreshing bubbles and a bright citrus zing. Pour the sangria over a glass filled with ice to keep it cool and crisp while you enjoy every sip of this delightful Red Sangria (Red Wine) Recipe.
How to Serve Red Sangria (Red Wine) Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the presentation and flavor with additional fresh fruit slices like orange wheels, apple slices, and a few whole berries. Adding a sprig of fresh mint or a cinnamon stick stirrer not only makes the drink look gorgeous but adds extra aromatic allure as you sip.
Side Dishes
This sangria pairs marvelously with tapas-style snacks such as manchego cheese, olives, cured meats, or crunchy crostini. The fresh fruit in the sangria complements savory bites and encourages a lively, sociable atmosphere at any event.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Red Sangria (Red Wine) Recipe in rustic mason jars or elegant wine glasses. For a festive twist, rim the glasses with sugar or cinnamon for extra flair. You can also freeze some of the fruit in ice cubes beforehand to keep your drink chilled without watering it down.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any sangria left, cover the pitcher or transfer it to an airtight container and store it refrigerated. It will keep fresh for up to 2 days, although it’s best enjoyed sooner to maintain the bubbly soda’s fizz and vibrant fruit flavors.
Freezing
Freezing sangria is not recommended because the texture and flavor of the fresh fruit and soda will suffer once thawed. For optimal enjoyment, stick to refrigerating any leftovers and consume within a couple of days.
Reheating
Sangria is meant to be served chilled, so reheating is generally not advised. If you prefer a warm beverage, consider trying a traditional mulled wine recipe instead, which uses red wine heated gently with spices and citrus.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of red wine for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cabernet with spice notes works beautifully, you can experiment with other medium-bodied reds like merlot or tempranillo for a slightly different flavor profile.
Is it necessary to add the lemon-lime soda?
Lemon-lime soda adds a refreshing fizz and citrus brightness, but if you prefer a less sweet or less bubbly sangria, you can substitute with sparkling water or simply omit it altogether.
How long should I let the sangria chill for best flavor?
At minimum, chill the sangria for a couple of hours, but allowing it to sit overnight or up to two days really lets the flavors meld and intensify for a richer taste experience.
Can I prepare this sangria in smaller batches?
Yes, this recipe scales well. Just adjust the ingredient quantities proportionally to your desired volume without losing the balance of flavors.
What fruit variations work well in sangria?
Feel free to swap or add fruits like peaches, pineapples, or cherries depending on your season and preference. Just keep a good balance of sweetness and acidity to maintain the classic sangria taste.
Final Thoughts
This Red Sangria (Red Wine) Recipe is a joyful celebration of fresh fruit, warming spices, and a splash of bubbly fun. It’s approachable yet impressively flavorful, making it perfect for both casual hangouts and special occasions. I can’t wait for you to pour yourself a glass, gather your favorite people, and enjoy the unforgettable experience that only a great sangria can offer. Cheers to delicious moments!
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Red Sangria (Red Wine) Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Total Time: 2 hours minimum (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Spanish
Description
A refreshing and fruity Red Sangria made with Cabernet wine, blackberry brandy, fresh fruits, and a hint of cinnamon, topped with lemon-lime soda for a sparkling finish. Perfect for gatherings and parties, this sangria offers a balanced blend of bold wine flavors and sweet, juicy fruits with an easy, no-cook preparation.
Ingredients
Liquids
- 750 ml Cabernet wine (choose one with spice notes)
- 1 cup blackberry brandy
- 2 ounces simple syrup (optional)
- 1 liter lemon-lime soda
Fruits
- 1 cara cara orange
- 2 gala apples, chopped
- 2 cups blackberries
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled
Spices & Others
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- Ice
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pitcher, mix together the Cabernet wine, blackberry brandy, simple syrup (if using), sliced cara cara orange, chopped gala apples, blackberries, strawberries, and cinnamon sticks. Stir gently to combine all the flavors.
- Chill: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least two hours. For optimal flavor infusion, chill it overnight or up to two days, allowing the fruit and spices to impart their essence into the sangria.
- Add Soda and Serve: Just before serving, pour in the lemon-lime soda to add a refreshing fizz. Serve the sangria over ice cubes in individual glasses to keep the drink cold and enjoyable.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of simple syrup based on your preferred sweetness level.
- Use fresh, ripe fruits for the best flavor.
- Allowing the sangria to chill longer enhances the infusion of flavors.
- Sangria tastes best served cold over plenty of ice.
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute wine and brandy with grape juice and blackberry syrup respectively.
