How to Make the Best Sangria

Sangria is a traditional wine punch originating in Spain and Portugal. Typically, sangria consists of red wine, chopped fruit, sugar, carbonated water and a small amount of other spirits, such as brandy or triple sec. Variations include sangria blanca (sangria made with white wine instead of red), zurra (sangria made with peaches or nectarines) and Sangria Senorial (a bottled nonalcoholic version).
Perfect for summer barbecues and poolside parties, sangria is a refreshing beverage for social gatherings. The following recipe is a traditional take on sangria but with splashes of fresh fruit juice mixed in.

Things You'll Need

• Large punch bowl
• 2 bottles of red wine, like Rioja
• ½ cup brandy (add more to taste)
• ½ cup orange-flavored liqueur, like Grand Marnier or triple sec
• 4 tbsp. freshly squeezed lime juice
• 4 tbsp. freshly squeezed orange juice
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 orange
• 1 lemon
• 2 unwaxed apples
• 1 cup blackberries
• 2 cinnamon sticks (optional)
• Carbonated water (optional)

Instructions

1. Make the simple syrup. Combine ½ cup white sugar and ½ cup water in a small pan or pot. Stir the mixture on medium heat until they combine to make a light syrup. You may want to make a little extra in case you like your sangria on the sweet side.

2. Prepare the fruit. First, wash the fruit in cool water. Second, thinly slice the orange and lemon. Third, core and slice the apples.

3. Combine the ingredients. In the large punch bowl, add the wine, brandy, orange-flavored liqueur, lime juice, orange juice, simple syrup, fruit, and cinnamon sticks. Don't add any carbonated water yet (if using). You may want to adjust the recipe to your taste by adding more brandy, triple sec or simple syrup. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap.

4. Refrigerate the sangria. It's recommended to refrigerate your sangria for 24 hours or at least overnight. The longer you let your sangria chill, the better the flavors will marinate and taste.

5. Add carbonated water. Traditionally, sangria is made with carbonated water, but some people opt not to use it. If you prefer your sangria with carbonated water, add 1 cup at a time until it reaches your preferred taste. Do not add the soda until your sangria is ready to serve.

6. Serve your sangria and enjoy!

Tips & Warnings

• Mix in different fruits to experiment with the taste of your sangria. Try adding peaches, nectarines, plums or even pomegranate seeds. If you prefer, use white wine instead of red to make sangria blanca.