What is Sangria?
Sangria is essentially a red wine-fruit punch that likely originated in Spain around the 18th century. By tradition, Sangria is comprised of red wine and chopped fruit, spices, and other ingredients or spirits. Several styles of Sangria exist.
Sangria, the most popular alcoholic beverage in Spanish cuisine, is commonly served at Spanish festivals and chiringuitos (small tapa bar-style establishments).
Where Sangria does come from?
Since Sangria was introduced to the United States at the 1964 World's Fair in New York, this fruity wine punch has become common place at wedding receptions and other celebrations, restaurants, bars, and festivals. Many restaurants create their own unique version of Sangria, too.
Several wineries now make their own versions of red and white Sangrias. These days, you won't need to search far for unique ones either. Moscato Sangria, capriccio bubbly Sangria, peach Sangria, Rosé Sangria are available as are non-alcoholic Sangrias. The latter is greatly appreciated as a distinct party refreshment by people of all ages.
Many enjoy making their own festive, seasonal options like Christmas Sangria (white wine, oranges, cranberries, and pomegranate) or apple cider Sangria for Thanksgiving and other fall occasions. Ginger ale instead of seltzer water is a handy substitute, too.
How is Sangria made?
Sangria is based on a traditional red wine punch called Claret, a Bordeaux wine from Bordeaux, France that's a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. Chilled seltzer water and often Brandy is added to the punch base, providing a noticeable edge over the refreshing citrus and berry notes of the chopped fruit. In Southern Spain, Sangria with peach or nectarine is the custom and even has its own name, Zurra.
While Sangria traditionalists stoically proclaim red wine makes the best Sangria, Sangria Blanco has become a hit as well. This white wine Sangria is more than a fad, if curious. With great applause, sparkling white and Rosé Sangrias have taken off, too.
The cool thing about Sangria is that you can make your own and get as creative as your thirst desires. Pick your choice of Brandy, wine, and any fruits you wish. For an authentic Spanish flavor, use a quality Spanish red wine like Rioja.
Try out new spices for the holiday season like cinnamon, cardamom, anise, or nutmeg. Just be sure you pair the wine and Brandy with the right fruit and vice versa, so they don't overpower each other.
After adding the chopped fruit to the wine, chill the batch overnight. This allows all of the fruit flavors to fully infuse the wine. By morning, you can pour this fresh Sangria into a glass pitcher and add fresh-cut fruit as garnishment. Bonus tip: invest in a pitcher with a pinched lip. Then, when serving your special Sangria, the fruit and other solids won't plop, splash or go airborne.
What are popular brands of Sangria?
In the U.S., Capriccio brand has become a true favorite of Sangria drinkers. Their Rosé Sangria from Spain is a popular crisp wine with flavors of pineapple, strawberries, and pomegranate. It's a hit at summertime parties and barbeques, but can be enjoyed at any time of the year. Their single-serve Sangrias are a major hit, too.
Beso Del Sol brand has also grown in popularity and features a pink Sangria.
Browse our wide selection of Sangrias HERE and start exploring all this category has to offer.
