September 21, 2020

Savor the Final Sips of Summer with Homemade Sangria

Although Labor Day has passed, autumn doesn’t technically start until September 22nd. That means that we still have time to soak up the sun and sip on our favorite summertime drink — homemade sangria.

Origins and History

What is sangria? It’s an alcoholic beverage that originated in Spain and Portugal that is often red in color and sweet in flavor. Its main ingredients are red wine and fresh fruit; traditional fruit includes peaches, nectarines, berries, apples, or pears. You can also add more tropical fruits such as pineapple and lime. Also, after the conception of traditional sangria came sangria blanca, which is a sangria made with white wine instead of red.

One interesting fact is that only sangria produced in either Spain or Portugal can be labeled as “sangria.” If it’s from anywhere else in the world, it cannot be labeled as such and must go by a different name. For example, if you were to make sangria in America, it would have to be labeled “American sangria.”

Homemade Sangria Recipe

As we mentioned above, sangria is traditionally made with red wine and fruit. However, many people like to add to it, putting in sweeteners, spices, and some seltzer water. Some like to add some other alcohol to it as well. Now you don’t want your sangria to be too sweet, so be sure not to add too many different ingredients. One of our favorite recipes from Delish puts a few new twists on your classic glass of sangria. Make it yourself at home with just a few steps and only a few ingredients.

First, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 (750-mL.) bottle of red wine
  • 1 cup of orange juice
  • 1/2 cup of brandy
  • 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
  • 1 orange, sliced
  • 1 apple, sliced
  • 1 cup of blueberries
  • 1 cup of sliced strawberries
  • 1 (12-oz.) can of seltzer

Combine your choice of red wine, orange juice, brandy, and sugar in a larger pitcher. Stir in the fruit and let chill for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator. Once it’s chilled, pour in the can of seltzer and serve!

If you’re not a fan of traditional sangria, not to worry. Delish also has an incredible sangria blanca recipe that you can make at home! To make this version, you’ll need some different ingredients, including:

  • 1 cup of sliced strawberries
  • 1 mango, cubed
  • 1 peach, sliced
  • 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup of Grand Marnier
  • 1 apple, sliced
  • 1 orange, sliced
  • 1 lime, sliced
  • 1 (750-ml.) bottle of white wine, chilled
  • 1 cup of seltzer

Begin by refrigerating your wine for a few hours. Then add your strawberries, mango cubes, peach slices, sugar, and Grand Marnier to a medium-sized bowl and chill. Once it’s cold, or about an hour later, transfer the mixture to a large pitcher and add in your apple, orange, and lime slices. Finally, pour in your choice of white wine and your seltzer before serving.

Come to Cork For A Night Out

Don’t feel like making your own drinks? No problem. At Cork Bar & Restaurant, we’ve got a bottle of wine for everyone. Make your reservation here for a night of good company and good drinks.

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