Spanish Sangria: Everything You Need to Know!
Spanish sangria is one of the most internationally recognised drinks from Spain, and almost anywhere in the world people will understand you when you say the word “sangria”. It is served very cold and is perfect as a refreshing summer drink. Wine sangria is, without a doubt, synonymous with joy, friends and celebration — a true symbol of Spanish gastronomy alongside Spanish tapas and, of course, jamon iberico.
In this post, we’re going to tell you what Spanish sangria is and how to make it. Let’s dive in!
What is Spanish sangria?
Did you know the word “sangria” is related to blood? That’s because of its deep red colour. Its flavour and character perfectly reflect the bold, passionate nature of traditional iberico products and Spanish cuisine in general. But what exactly are its particularities? Sangria is a 100% Spanish alcoholic drink made with wine, fruit, spirits and sugar — and it even has a bit of history behind it!
There are two main theories about its origins. The first takes us back to the 1800s, when Spanish and Portuguese farm workers are said to have created it as a way to cool down during long working days, using whatever they had available — wine, peaches, apples and citrus fruits. The second goes further back to the 1700s and involves a story of creativity and smuggling: British sailors are believed to have mixed rum with honey, spices and local fruit to disguise alcohol as fruit juice.
Over time, sangria has become a must-try drink for visitors to Spain and an unmistakable symbol of our culinary culture. In fact, it ranks 11th in CNN’s list of the world’s best drinks.
How to make traditional Spanish sangria
Just like paella, there is no single way to make Spanish wine sangria. Everyone has their own version, and each region uses local ingredients. That said, if you’re wondering what goes into Spanish sangria, the essentials must always include wine, sugar and fruit.
Ingredients for easy red wine sangria:
- 1 bottle of red wine
- 2 oranges
- ½ lemon
- Grapes
- Strawberries
- Blueberries
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1 glass of brandy or orange liqueur
- Orange soda
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
Step-by-step preparation:
- Pour the wine into a large jug along with the juice of one orange, the glass of liqueur and the juice of half a lemon.
- Wash and prepare all the fruit, cut it into medium-sized pieces (smaller rather than larger), and add it to the jug.
- Let it rest for a few hours if you have time. This allows the fruit to macerate in the alcohol and juice, giving the sangria a much richer and incredible flavour.
- Then add the cinnamon stick and sugar, stirring well until the sugar has fully dissolved.
- Add the orange soda just before serving in glasses filled with plenty of ice. Cheers and enjoy!
Variations and serving ideas
There are different versions of Spanish sangria, such as white wine sangria or cava sangria. The best one really depends on your taste. What we can guarantee is that a chilled glass of sangria is the perfect match for a sharing board of cured meats or classic jamon iberico.
Sangria to cool down!
There’s nothing better than a refreshing sangria on hot summer days. It’s best enjoyed with family and friends, alongside a good cured meats board or a selection of traditional Spanish tapas. Prepare this drink to pair with the finest Iberian products!
Conclusion
If you feel like trying it yourself, why not impress your guests with an authentic Spanish sangria? At Enrique Tomás we continue helping you become an expert in all things Iberian. Discover them on our website and fill your online basket with your favourites.
Get your jug ready, serve it ice cold and toast with the best of our gastronomy!
