Choosing the Right Base
Selecting the perfect wine and complementary spirits is the foundation of a great sangria.
A well-chosen base will elevate your sangria from good to spectacular.
Selecting the Perfect Red Wine
For traditional Spanish sangria, opt for wines from Spain like Tempranillo, Garnacha, or Rioja.
These wines offer bold flavors that hold up well to added fruits and spices.
If you can’t find Spanish wines, try Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or red blends.
Avoid overly tannic or expensive wines.
A moderately priced, fruity red works best.
Pinot Noir can be too light, while Zinfandel might overpower other flavors.
Look for wines with notes of cherry, plum, or blackberry.
These fruit-forward flavors complement the added fruits in your sangria.
A wine around $10-15 per bottle is ideal – save the pricey stuff for sipping on its own.
Liquor Additions for Depth
To give your sangria extra kick and complexity, add a splash of liquor.
Brandy is the traditional choice in Spain, imparting warmth and depth.
Use about 1/4 cup per bottle of wine.
For a twist, try rum for a tropical flair or gin for a crisp, herbal note.
Orange liqueurs like Cointreau, Grand Marnier, or triple sec brighten the flavors.
Start with 2-3 tablespoons of liquor per bottle of wine.
You can always add more to taste.
For a unique spin, experiment with apple brandy or flavored vodkas.
The goal is to enhance, not overpower, the wine.
A little liquor goes a long way in creating a balanced, flavorful sangria.