Red Wine Sangria Recipe – Few drinks capture the spirit of relaxation and celebration quite like a classic sangria. Originating from Spain, sangria is a vibrant and refreshing punch traditionally made with wine, fresh fruits, and a splash of brandy or liqueur. Its bold yet balanced flavors make it a perfect choice for summer gatherings, holiday parties, or even a simple weekend treat.
The Red Wine Sangria Recipe stands out because of its deep, fruity base paired with citrus brightness and subtle sweetness. You can easily customize it with seasonal fruits or preferred spirits, making it as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, brunch, or backyard barbecue, this drink adds a touch of elegance while being wonderfully approachable.
Recipe Overview
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Active Time: 15 minutes
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Resting Time: 2–4 hours (for flavors to infuse)
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Cuisines: Spanish, Mediterranean
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Course: Beverage / Cocktail
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Servings: 6 glasses
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Calories: ~190 kcal per serving
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Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes – 4 hours 15 minutes
Equipment Needed
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Large pitcher or punch bowl (preferably glass)
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Wooden spoon for stirring
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Sharp knife and cutting board
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Citrus juicer (optional)
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Wine glasses or tumblers for serving
Ingredients
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1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine (Tempranillo, Garnacha, or Merlot work well)
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1/4 cup brandy (optional, but traditional)
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1/4 cup orange liqueur (Cointreau or Triple Sec)
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1/4 cup simple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
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1 orange, thinly sliced
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1 lemon, thinly sliced
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1 lime, thinly sliced
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1 apple, cored and chopped
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1 cup fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
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1 cup club soda or sparkling water (added before serving for fizz)
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Ice cubes, for serving
Nutrition
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 190 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 19 g |
| Sugars | 16 g |
| Protein | 0.5 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Vitamin C | 18% DV |
| Alcohol Content |
10–12% ABV (varies)
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Instructions
Step 1: Choose the Right Wine
Select a dry, fruity red wine that is medium-bodied. Spanish wines such as Tempranillo or Garnacha are traditional choices, but a Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Pinot Noir works too. Avoid overly expensive bottles since the fruit and mixers balance everything out.
Step 2: Prepare the Fruits
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Wash all fruits thoroughly.
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Slice the orange, lemon, and lime into thin rounds.
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Core and chop the apple into bite-sized chunks.
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Rinse berries and pat them dry.
Fresh, ripe fruits are crucial for infusing the wine with natural sweetness and aroma.
Step 3: Mix the Base
In a large pitcher, combine:
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Red wine
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Brandy
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Orange liqueur
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Simple syrup (or honey for natural sweetness)
Stir well with a wooden spoon to ensure the flavors are blended.
Step 4: Add Fruits
Add the prepared orange slices, lemon, lime, apple chunks, and berries into the pitcher. Stir gently to coat the fruit with the liquid. The fruit not only enhances the flavor but also makes the presentation beautiful and festive.
Step 5: Resting Period
Cover the pitcher with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For best results, let it rest for 4 hours or even overnight. This allows the fruits to release their juices and fully infuse the wine with flavor.
Step 6: Add Fizz Before Serving
When ready to serve, stir in chilled club soda or sparkling water for a refreshing bubbly texture. Adjust sweetness if necessary with an extra splash of syrup.
Step 7: Serve & Garnish
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Fill glasses with ice cubes.
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Pour sangria over the ice, making sure to include some fruit pieces in each glass.
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Garnish with a sprig of mint or an extra slice of citrus for a restaurant-style finish.
Tips & Variations
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Wine Swap: Use white wine for a lighter sangria or rosé for a pink twist.
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Spirit Options: Substitute brandy with rum, vodka, or whiskey for unique flavors.
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Fruit Choices: Try peaches, pears, cherries, or pineapple depending on the season.
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Non-Alcoholic Version: Replace wine with grape juice and skip the liqueur.
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Make Ahead: Sangria tastes better when made a few hours in advance, but add sparkling water just before serving to keep it fizzy.
Why This Sangria Stands Out
The Red Wine Sangria Recipe balances depth and freshness. The wine provides a bold base, citrus adds tanginess, brandy gives warmth, and fresh fruits contribute natural sweetness. Unlike pre-made cocktails, this recipe lets you control sweetness, alcohol content, and fruit variety, ensuring a drink tailored to your taste and occasion.
It’s perfect for summer picnics, holiday dinners, casual get-togethers, or any event where you want a festive and crowd-pleasing beverage.
Conclusion
Sangria is more than just a drink—it’s a celebration in a glass. This Red Wine Sangria Recipe delivers a timeless combination of bold wine, bright citrus, and juicy fruits, enhanced with a hint of sweetness and effervescence. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and again.
Whether you’re sipping under the summer sun, toasting during the holidays, or enjoying a quiet evening, sangria brings people together with its vibrant flavors and joyful spirit. Cheers
