The world of alcohol is vast and diverse, which can be overwhelming when you dive into it. From wines, beers, and liquors to spirits, it can be challenging to differentiate among them and choose a favorite. Adding cocktails into the mix makes it even more complicated. But don’t worry! Team Unsobered is here to help you know everything about your favorite drinks and cocktails. And if you’ve just begun having cocktails, one of the first to try must be sangria. What exactly is sangria and why is it so commonly the first cocktail of many debutants?
What Is Sangria?
For those of you who’ve tried this, know that it’s a wine-based cocktail. This beverage emphasizes fruity notes of wine and with a few other ingredients, it’s a perfect summertime cocktail. A good old sangria is a mixture of sugar or fresh fruit juice for a sweet taste. The drink gets an additional boost thanks to orange-flavored triple sec or brandy or raspberry-flavored Chambord.
Also Read: 8 Easy Sangria Recipes To Try This National Sangria Day
Sangria’s Origin Story
Sangria has a rich history that dates back to ancient Greek and Roman times when it was known as “hippocras.” This early version was a blend of wine, sugar, spices, and various other ingredients. Many years later, a similar drink emerged in Spain.
In the 18th century, sangria became a popular choice for cooling down after a hot summer day in Spain. It typically consists of Spanish red wine, fruits, and brandy, making it a drink enjoyed communally among friends and family. Sangria quickly gained popularity beyond Spain, first reaching Portugal, which then brought it to the Caribbean Islands. Eventually, it made its way to the United States and became well-known by the 19th century.
This drink experienced a notable resurgence in the U.S. during the 1964 World’s Fair in Queens, New York, where it was prominently featured at the Spain pavilion.
Which Wine Is Used In Sangria?
Sangria means “blood” in Spanish which comes from the drink’s traditional base of red wine. So if you’re going for something classic, a red wine is the ideal choice. For fruity notes, Garnacha can also be a good choice. Apart from this, white wine, sparkling wine, and rose wine can also be used to make sangrias.
Also Read: Best Places in Mumbai To Get Sangria
Which Fruit Is Ideal To Be Used In Sangria?
Sangria is one of the most versatile punches. You can add anything, from pineapple to peaches, apples to pears, and from strawberries to slices of citrus. The ideal way to select the fruits is to add the ones whose flavors are present in the wine.
How To Make A Sangria?
Ingredients:
- Apples
- Oranges
- 2 oz brown sugar
- 32 oz orange juice
- 25 oz Spanish red wine
Process:
- In a large pitcher, add sliced oranges, apples, and sugar and mix it well with a wooden spoon for 45 seconds.
- Mix brandy and orange juice and stir again for 30 seconds.
- Pour red wine and keep stirring.
- Taste the mixture and adjust the flavor accordingly.
- At last, add some ice cubes and serve it chilled.
- Top it up with some orange slices.
What Does Sangria Taste Like?
Now that we know how to make sangria, you might be wondering what will this cocktail taste like. Since it’s a very flexible drink, the level of sweetness and alcohol content could be easily adjusted. Due to this, the flavor profile is as diverse as it could get for a cocktail. However, one common factor that is present across sangrias is the usage of fresh fruits, which adds a different element of flavor and freshness to the drink.
Serving Sangria The Right Way
The best way to serve it would be in a punch bowl. But if you don’t have it, a simple pitcher would also do. If you’re planning to keep the sangria for a longer time, store it in the fridge ideally but also go for a punch dispenser.
Best Way To Drink Sangria
Probably one of the most important ingredients while serving this drink is having it chilled enough for the drinkers. Keep it in the fridge for as long as possible before serving to keep its temperature to a minimum.
Also read: Which Cocktail Are You According To Your Zodiac Sign?
Summing up
Sangria is one such cocktail that every drinker at least knows about regardless of the fact whether they drink it or not. Now unless you are a non-drinker or are living under a rock, you probably know most of things about it. But here we’ve got you some more insights that just might give you that additional context about the drink which you could flex about in parties. So stay hydrated this summer and try out this delicious fruity cocktail. Cheers!
FAQs
Is Sangria A Beer Or Wine?
Sangria is a punch of red wine and fruits. It may contain other alcoholic drinks as well but its primary base is that of red wine.
Does Sangria Contain Rum?
It depends on the taste a drinker wants. Rum could also be added to this drink if needed.
Does Sangria Taste Good?
Due to the presence of red wine and fruits, the taste of Sangria is fresh and fruity. This helps in improving the taste of the drink.
How Long Can It Last?
Sangria’s lifespan is anywhere from 3 to 5 days if stored properly in a refrigerator.
