Classic Red Sangria

Hosting a party? This delicious and easy red sangria recipe is the perfect crowd-pleaser. The classic Spanish-inspired recipe is made with fresh fruit and a touch of sweetness, so it’s sure to be a hit.

about this classic red sangria

You know what makes any gathering instantly more festive? A big pitcher of ruby-red sangria sitting on the counter! This Spanish wine punch is loaded with chunks of fresh fruit and a kick of brandy.

The secret to an incredible sangria isn’t fancy ingredients – it’s time. Give the chopped apple and citrus a few hours to hang out in the wine. The fruit gets all boozy and delicious while the wine takes on this amazing fruity character. Add a splash of brandy and boom – you’ve got something way more interesting than a regular ol’ glass of red.

I can’t count how many times I’ve made this recipe, and it’s always a hit. Maybe because it feels special without being fussy, or because there’s something so fun about fishing out those wine-soaked fruit pieces at the bottom of your glass.

It’s always a crowd favorite, plus you can prep it ahead (actually, you should!) which makes entertaining so much easier.

ingredients

red wine. Use a dry Spanish wine such as Rioja, Garnacha, or other Spanish red wine.

brandy. Brandy is the traditional ingredient for sangria, but you could also use an orange liqueur like Grand Marnier or Cointreau.

orange. Use fresh, ripe oranges for sweetness and citrus flavor.

apple. You can use your favorite apple for this sangria! A red apple is usually best, whether it is Gala, Honeycrisp, or Red Delicious.

lemon. Fresh lemon slices bring a bit of citrusy tartness to the sangria to balance out the other flavors.

simple syrup. I only use a touch of simple syrup to balance out the flavors, but you can always add more if you like a sweeter sangria.

this recipe’s must-haves

To make this recipe, all you need is a large pitcher and a wooden spoon!

I like to serve sangria in stemless wine glasses, but you can also use punch glasses or whatever wine glasses you have on hand.

here’s how to make red sangria

juice orange

Juice one orange into a pitcher. Slice the other orange and add slices to the pitcher.

combine

Add wine, brandy, apple, lemon slices, and simple syrup. Stir to combine.

chill

Chill for at least 2 hours, but 8 hours is best. You can even let it sit overnight! Serve poured over ice in glasses. Make sure to get fruit in every glass!

tips and tricks

use ripe fruit. Be sure to use fruit that is ripe! If it’s not, the sangria will end up with a bland flavor.

chill it. Do not skip the chilling time! This allows the fresh fruit to infuse the wine with its fresh flavor. Chill it for at least 2 hours, but 8 hours or up to overnight is so much better!

variations

make it bubbly. Top off your sangria with some club soda after it’s done chilling to add a little bubbly to the party.

use warming spices. Add a couple of cinnamon sticks and a star anise to the pitcher before chilling the sangria. This will give it a warming hint of spice!

More tasty sangria recipes to sip on: Christmas Sangria | Big Batch Holiday Sangria | Single Serve Sangria | Valentine’s Day Sangria

can sangria sit overnight?

Yes, this sangria can sit overnight in the refrigerator! It’s ideal to serve it after chilling for about 2 hour to 8 hours. It also lasts up to 48 hours in the fridge.

what type of red wine should I use?

Using a Spanish dry red wine is best! I usually like to use a Tempranillo, Rioja or Garnacha. Don’t buy a super expensive wine. Since you are adding fruit and brandy, the wine is just a base for the recipe. Make sure to select a mid-range option that has good flavor!

what fruit goes in red wine sangria?

This recipe calls for oranges, apple, and lemon. However, you can always switch this up! Try different seasonal fruits like raspberries, strawberries, pears, pomegranates, pineapple, blackberries, and anything else you like.

how do I make this red sangria sweeter?

If you want this recipe to be a bit sweeter, simply add a bit more simple syrup. We recommend letting the sangria chill first before tasting. Add simple syrup 1/2 oz at a time, tasting before adding the next addition. It’s easy to add simple syrup, but it’s hard to take it away!

Need more inspiration for a sweet treat? Check out my dessert recipes page!

what to serve with the best sangria recipe

When it comes to serving red sangria, it goes with just about anything. To really highlight and enjoy those fruity flavors, here are some of our favorite recipes to pair with this drink:

• appetizers (aka tapas!): If you are interested in hosting a tapas party, I’ve got tons of recipes to choose from! Blistered shishito peppers, pan con tomate, garlic herb shrimp, patatas bravas, and more. You can also opt for something simpler like a charcuterie board or bacon wrapped dates!
• red meat: Beef in particular is always a classic pairing with sangria! Try the perfect ribeye steak or a grilled NY steak.
• shrimp or fish: Since this sangria has fruity citrus flavors, this is one of those exceptions where red wine can pair with shrimp and fish! Try roasted lemon garlic shrimp pasta or baked lemon salmon.

how to store

Store. If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. However, the sangria will taste best when it is served fresh.

more big batch cocktails to try

Spiced rum punch is bursting with winter warming spices and a hint of citrus. It’s bold and ideal for a party!

This Christmas punch is an easy recipe for a holiday gathering. Plus it only takes 5 minutes to whip up!

A refreshing glass of raspberry vodka lemonade is the best pairing for a backyard BBQ in summertime.

Finally, if you make this classic red sangria recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a star recipe rating on the recipe card and/or leave a comment! I love to hear when you all make recipes, and I do take the time to respond to every single comment.

Feel free to drop questions below too, if you have them!

Oh and be sure to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you make the recipe! I love being able to see these recipes come to life in your homes – it’s my favorite thing to look through those photos. It really means the world to me!

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