Red Wine Sangria
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Red Wine Sangria
This red wine sangria is a make-ahead pitcher that gets better as it sits. A fruity red wine soaks up orange, apple, and a splash of brandy, while the chopped fruit sweetens the whole pitcher. The key is time, at least two hours in the fridge so the flavors meld. This recipe makes about two quarts and serves a crowd over ice.
Ingredients
- 1 bottle (750 ml) fruity red wine, such as Garnacha or Merlot
- 1/4 cup brandy
- 1/4 cup orange liqueur or orange juice
- 2 tablespoons sugar, to taste
- 1 orange, sliced into thin rounds
- 1 apple, cored and chopped
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 cup club soda, added before serving
- Ice, for serving
Directions
- In a large pitcher, stir together the wine, brandy, orange liqueur, and sugar until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the orange slices, chopped apple, and lemon slices. Press the fruit gently to release some juice.
- Cover and chill at least 2 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Just before serving, stir in the club soda for a little fizz.
- Serve over ice, spooning some of the soaked fruit into each glass.
Tips and variations
- Use a fruity, low-tannin red. An inexpensive bottle is perfect here since the fruit and brandy carry the flavor.
- Make it the night before. Sangria genuinely improves after several hours in the fridge.
- Add the club soda only at serving time so the sangria stays lively instead of flat.
- Please drink responsibly and only if you are 21 or older. Offer water and a non-alcoholic option, and never serve to anyone underage.
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Common questions
- What wine is best for sangria
- A fruity, low-tannin red like Garnacha, Merlot, or a young Rioja works best. Skip expensive bottles since the fruit and brandy do the heavy lifting.
- How far ahead can I make sangria
- Make it up to a day ahead and keep it chilled. Stir in the club soda only right before serving so it stays fizzy.
- Can I make it without hard liquor
- Yes. Leave out the brandy and orange liqueur and use orange juice instead. It will be lighter but still flavorful.
- What fruit works in sangria
- Oranges, apples, and lemons are classic. Berries, peaches, and grapes are all great additions in season.
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