How to make sangria with red wine

To start, gather the necessary ingredients. You will need:

– 1 bottle of red wine: Choose a medium-bodied red wine such as merlot, cabernet sauvignon, or tempranillo. The flavors of red fruits and spices found in these wines pair well with the fruit and sweetness in sangria.

– 1 cup of orange juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice is recommended for a vibrant and zesty flavor.

– 1/4 cup of brandy: Brandy adds richness and depth to the sangria. If you prefer a lighter version, you can omit it or reduce the amount according to your taste.

– 1/4 cup of triple sec or orange liqueur: Triple sec enhances the citrus flavors in the sangria and adds a subtle sweetness. Alternatively, you can use Cointreau or Grand Marnier for a touch of elegance.

– 2 tablespoons of sugar: Adjust the amount of sugar based on the sweetness of the wine and your personal preference. You can also substitute with honey or agave syrup for a healthier option.

– A variety of fruits: The beauty of sangria lies in the use of fresh fruits. You can choose from options such as oranges, lemons, limes, apples, peaches, berries, or any other seasonal fruits that you enjoy.

Once you have all the ingredients, it’s time to prepare the sangria. Follow these steps:

1. Slice the fruits: Wash the fruits thoroughly, then slice them into bite-sized pieces or thin rounds. Remove any seeds or pits. Reserve a few slices for garnishing.

2. Mix the liquids: In a large pitcher or container, combine the red wine, orange juice, brandy, triple sec, and sugar. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the flavors are well combined.

3. Add the fruit: Add the sliced fruits to the pitcher. You can mix and match different fruits according to your preference. Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons are traditional, but feel free to get creative with your choices.

4. Chill and steep: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the fruit to infuse into the sangria, resulting in a more aromatic and flavorful beverage.

5. Serve and enjoy: Before serving, give the sangria a good stir to distribute the fruit. You can serve it as-is or over ice, garnished with fresh fruit slices. For an extra sparkle, you can even add a splash of carbonated water or lemon-lime soda.

Sangria is best enjoyed within a day or two, as the fruit can begin to break down over time. If you have leftovers, strain the mixture and store it in the refrigerator to prolong its shelf life.

Now that you know how to make sangria with red wine, you have a delightful beverage that will impress your guests or simply provide a refreshing treat for yourself. So grab a glass, sit back, and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this iconic Spanish drink. Salud!