Who doesn’t love the punchy sweetness and super refreshing fruitiness of sangria?
This drink is ideally consumed during hot summer days with a group of friends around.
It’s believed to have originated in Portugal and Spain over 2000 years ago, thanks to the Romans who planted vineyards as they made their way through the Iberian Peninsula.
The drink’s star ingredient is red wine, mixed with all the summer fruits you desire and other options to add sweetness.
What makes or breaks a sangria is of course the type of wine being used. Not every red wine can go well with other ingredients in a sangria.
Keen on making your own sangria at home? Here's a guide to choosing the perfect red wine.
Related Article: 7 Unconventional Wine & Food Pairings that Surprise You
What goes into sangria?
Sangria is normally put together in a large bowl or pitcher. The ingredients will vary depending on your preferences, but generally it includes the following:
- 1 bottle of red wine
- Brandy
- Orange juice
- Granulated sugar
- Seltzer
- Apple
- Orange
- Strawberries
- Blueberries
The brandy and granulated sugar are meant to act as sweeteners to combat the acidity of the fruits and tannins in the wine.
However, there are other alternatives to making sangria sweeter, such as:
- Cane sugar
- Brown sugar
- Rum instead of brandy
Related Article: Applying Wine Pairing Techniques to Whisky and Food
What kind of red wine is best for sangria?
When choosing wine for sangria, many swear on dry Spanish reds. But even if you don’t have access to this particular type, look out for wines that are:
- Low in tannins
- Light to medium-bodied
- Fruity
- Not aged in oak
Wines with these qualities are lighter, and work better with the sweetness of brandy and chopped fruits.
When in doubt, go for sweet red wines.
Which wines are best for sangria?
Looking for your favorite red wine? Minuman.com provides the widest selection of red wine. Order now and have your favorite red wine delivered to your doorstep with fast and free delivery. Available at minuman.com:
