Red Sangria is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, blending bold, fruity flavors with a refreshing, chilled finish. This vibrant drink combines juicy oranges, crisp apples, and a hint of cinnamon, creating a symphony of sweet and tangy notes. With just 15 minutes of prep, it’s perfect for busy hosts who want to impress effortlessly. Let it chill for 8 hours to allow the flavors to meld into a harmonious, irresistible blend. Every sip delivers a burst of summer, making it ideal for gatherings or a relaxing evening. Its rich, ruby hue and medley of textures—soft fruit, smooth wine—make it as visually stunning as it is delicious.
This recipe is a celebration of simplicity and sophistication, offering a drink that’s both easy to make and deeply satisfying. The wine’s robust base is elevated by the natural sweetness of the fruit, while a splash of brandy adds a warm, lingering depth. Serve it over ice for a cool, refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet moment, this Red Sangria promises to delight your senses and leave you craving more. It’s a timeless classic that’s sure to become your go-to for effortless elegance.
Fresh & Flavorful Ingredients
- 1 Granny Smith apple (or other green apple), cored and chopped
- 1 orange, thinly sliced, then sliced into quarters
- 1 lemon or lime, thinly sliced
- ⅓ cup raspberries (or sliced strawberries for a twist)
- 1 (750 mL) bottle Tempranillo, Garnacha, or Rioja wine (choose your favorite red)
- ½ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed for extra brightness)
- ¼ to ½ cup Cointreau, Grand Marnier, or brandy (adjust to your preferred sweetness)
Simple Steps to Perfect Sangria
- Prepare the fruit: Place the chopped apple, quartered orange slices, lemon or lime slices, and raspberries into a large pitcher.
- Add the liquids: Pour the wine, orange juice, and Cointreau (or your chosen liqueur) into the pitcher.
- Mix well: Stir gently to combine all the ingredients and ensure the fruit is evenly distributed.
- Chill: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 8 hours (or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor infusion).
- Serve: Fill glasses with ice and pour the sangria over, making sure to include some of the fruit in each glass.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
Red Sangria is a versatile drink that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside tapas like patatas bravas, chorizo, or Spanish tortilla for an authentic experience. It also complements grilled meats, cheese platters, or even a simple charcuterie board. For a sweet finish, pair it with churros or dark chocolate desserts.
Mix It Up: Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize your Red Sangria to suit your taste! Swap the raspberries for blackberries or pomegranate seeds for a different fruity twist. If you prefer a sweeter sangria, add a splash of simple syrup or use a sweeter wine. For a non-alcoholic version, replace the wine with grape juice and skip the Cointreau.
Chill Out: Storage Tips
Red Sangria tastes best when chilled overnight, but you can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep it in a tightly sealed pitcher to preserve the flavors. If the fruit starts to break down, strain it out before serving. Always give it a quick stir before pouring to ensure the flavors are well-mixed.
Quick Fix: Time-Saving Tips
Short on time? You can still enjoy a delicious sangria! Chill the wine and fruit separately for 2-3 hours instead of overnight. Use pre-sliced fruit or frozen berries to cut down on prep time. Just remember, the longer it chills, the more flavorful it becomes!
Essential Tools: Equipment Guidance
To make this recipe a breeze, you’ll need a large pitcher with a lid for easy storage and serving. A sharp knife and cutting board are essential for slicing the fruit. If you’re serving a crowd, consider using a ladle for easy pouring and a large bowl for mixing if your pitcher isn’t big enough.
Red Sangria
Ingredients
Fruits
- 1 Granny Smith or other green apple, cored and chopped
- 1 orange, thinly sliced, then sliced into quarters
- 1 lemon or lime, thinly sliced
- ⅓ cup raspberries or sliced strawberries
Liquids
- 1 bottle Tempranillo, Garnacha, or Rioja wine (750 mL)
- ½ cup orange juice
- ¼ to ½ cup Cointreau, Grand Marnier, or brandy
Instructions
- Place the apple, orange, lime, and raspberries in a large pitcher.
- Pour in the wine, orange juice, and Cointreau and stir.
- Chill overnight (I like to chill mine for 24 hours for optimal fruit-infused flavor).
- Serve in glasses filled with ice.