Authentic Spanish Sangria Recipe (Easy + Refreshing!)
This classic Spanish sangria recipe brings the fiesta to your fridge with bold red wine, brandy, citrus, and just enough fizz to make it dance on your tongue. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, tapas nights, or pretending you’re in Barcelona when you’re really just in your backyard.
If you’ve ever sipped sangria on a sunny patio and thought, “Why don’t I make this more often?” – consider this your official nudge.
This sangria is for the 21-and-up crowd – sip back, relax, and enjoy responsibly.
What Is Spanish Sangria?
Sangria is more than just a fruity wine punch – it’s a cultural icon of Spain, served in tapas bars, family fiestas, and summer terraces across the country. According to Spain’s official tourism site, the traditional version is made by blending dry red wine, fresh fruit, sugar, and a splash of brandy. This recipe stays true to that spirit, featuring Spanish wine, citrus slices, apple wedges, and a touch of cinnamon to add just the right depth.
If you’re looking for a sangria that channels authentic Iberian flavor—not just something red and sweet in a pitcher – you’re in the right place.
Why This Sangria Works
- Authentic flavor: Inspired by traditional Spanish ingredients (Tempranillo or Garnacha for the win).
- Perfectly balanced: A mix of citrus, brandy, and orange liqueur sweetened just right.
- Make-ahead friendly: Marinate for max flavor—this is one drink that actually improves with a little wait.
Ingredients
- 1 bottle 750 ml dry red wine (Tempranillo or Garnacha recommended)
- ¼ cup brandy
- ¼ cup orange liqueur, Triple Sec or Cointreau
- ¼ cup white sugar, adjust to taste
- 1 large orange, peeled & sliced
- 1 large lemon, peeled & sliced
- 1 large lim,e peeled & sliced
- 1 medium apple, cored & sliced into wedges
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 cups soda water, adjust to taste
Instructions
- Muddle the Citrus – In a large pitcher, add sliced oranges, lemons, and limes. Gently muddle to release the juices.
- Add Apples & Sugar – Toss in the apple wedges and sprinkle with sugar. Stir gently to coat the fruit.
- Add Brandy & Orange Liqueur – Pour in the brandy and liqueur. Stir and let sit for 10 minutes to infuse.
- Add Wine & Cinnamon – Pour in the red wine. Drop in the cinnamon stick. Stir to combine.
- Chill – Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight for a deeper flavor).
- Add Bubbles & Serve – Just before serving, stir in soda water. Fill glasses with ice, pour, and ensure everyone receives some fruit.
(This muddler has a rubber tip. Check out Amazon.com for different kinds of muddlers.)
If you love easy, flavorful drinks like this one, don’t stop with sangria! Try my Moscow Mule for a cool, gingery twist, a Dirty Shirley Cocktail for a fun, nostalgic favorite, or my Rum Punch when you’re craving something tropical and beachy.
Easy Spanish Sangria
Ingredients
- 1 bottle 750 ml dry red wine (Tempranillo or Garnacha recommended)
- ¼ cup brandy
- ¼ cup orange liqueur Triple Sec or Cointreau
- ¼ cup white sugar adjust to taste
- 1 large large orange peeled & sliced
- 1 large lemon peeled & sliced
- 1 large lime peeled & sliced
- 1 medium apple cored & sliced into wedges
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 cups soda water adjust to taste
Instructions
- Muddle the Citrus – In a large pitcher, add sliced oranges, lemons, and limes. Gently muddle to release the juices.
- Add Apples & Sugar – Toss in the apple wedges and sprinkle with sugar. Stir gently to coat the fruit.
- Add Brandy & Orange Liqueur – Pour in the brandy and liqueur. Stir and let sit for 10 minutes to infuse.
- Add Wine & Cinnamon – Pour in the red wine. Drop in the cinnamon stick. Stir to combine.
- Chill – Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (up to overnight for deeper flavor).
- Add Bubbles & Serve – Just before serving, stir in soda water. Fill glasses with ice, pour, and make sure everyone gets some fruit.
Nutrition
Pro Tips
- Chill your wine beforehand for a quicker turnaround.
- Want it sweeter? Add extra sugar or a splash of orange juice.
- Use a wooden spoon to muddle—metal can bruise the fruit.
How Long Can Sangria Sit?
It’s best to use within 24 hours, but it can be stored (covered) in the fridge for up to 3 days. The fruit may become softer, but the flavor remains the same. Even better.
Final Sip
Whether you’re throwing a dinner party or want to feel like you’re on vacation without leaving your zip code, this sangria is your easy, elegant go-to. Share this recipe with a friend who needs a little sangria in their life.
If you try this Spanish Sangria, let me know how it turned out! 🍷 Leave a comment below, tag [@SouthernKissed] on social, or share a photo of your pitcher-perfect moment.
