Homemade Sangria: The Perfect Summertime Sip
There’s something magical about a glass of sangria on a warm summer evening. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, lounging on the patio, or just looking for a refreshing way to unwind after a long day, sangria checks all the boxes: fruity, vibrant, and easy to make! It’s also easy to make in big batches, making it perfect for parties!! It’s the ultimate warm-weather drink—and once you make it at home, you’ll never go back to the pre-mixed stuff. My recipe below is always the hero at any party or social event I bring it to!!
Why Sangria is the Star of Summer
Sangria originated in Spain, and it was made for the heat. It’s cool, it’s customizable, and it always feels festive. The fruit soaks up the wine, the wine soaks up the fruit, and the result is a drink that’s both easygoing and unexpectedly complex. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to prep ahead of time, which makes it perfect for entertaining.
How to Make Classic Red Sangria
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle of dry red wine (Spanish Rioja or Tempranillo is traditional, but I find that any red blend works wonderfully)
- Juice of 1 orange + additional slices for the pitcher
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (whole if small), + additional slices for pitcher
- Juice of 1/2 lime + additional slices for pitcher
- 1/3 cup organic cane sugar (optional, to taste)
- 1 12 oz can club soda (added just before serving if making ahead of time)
- Ice
Instructions:
- In a large pitcher, combine the wine, fruit juice and fruit.
- Stir in sugar, and let the mixture chill in the fridge for around 4 hours—overnight is even better. This allows the flavors to meld and the fruit to soften.
- Just before serving, add sparkling water for a little fizz, then serve over ice.
Sangria Variations to Try
- White Sangria: Swap red wine for a dry white (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio) and use peaches, green apples, and berries.
- Rosé Sangria: Perfectly blush and fruity—pair with strawberries, citrus, and a splash of elderflower liqueur.
- Tropical Sangria: Use pineapple juice, mango, and rum with white wine for a beachy twist.
Perfect Food Pairings
Sangria’s sweet-tart flavor and fruity profile make it incredibly food-friendly. Here are some pairing ideas to make your summer spread sing:
- Grilled meats: Think juicy steak, smoky ribs, or charred sausages—the wine base in sangria balances the richness.
- Tapas & finger foods: Marinated olives, manchego cheese, patatas bravas, or chorizo all bring out the Spanish spirit of the drink.
- Seafood: A chilled white or rosé sangria goes beautifully with grilled shrimp, fish tacos, or a citrusy ceviche.
- Cheese boards: Fruity sangria pairs well with aged cheeses, goat cheese, and brie, especially with a touch of honey or fig jam.
A Final Note
Homemade sangria isn’t just a drink—it’s a mood. It’s a pitcher on the table, friends laughing in the background, sun-dappled glasses, and summer in full swing. With just a few fresh ingredients and a bit of prep, you can bring that feeling into your own backyard.
So grab some fruit, pop open a bottle of wine, and toast to the season. Salud!
Summertime Sangria
Ingredients
- 1 Bottle Red Blend wine of choice
- 1 12 oz Can Club Soda
- ⅓ Cup Sugar
- 1 Juice of one orange
- ½ Juice of 1/2 lemon (whole if small)
- ½ Juice of 1/2 Lime
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a pitcher or half gallon mason jar and mix until the sugar is dissolved. Can be served right away, but I like to add a few slices of orange, lemon, and lime into the jar and place in the refrigerator for a couple of hours prior to serving if I have time.Serve poured over ice and enjoy!!
