Sangria: The Only Way to Next-Level Your Wine Consumption W ith tapas bars and restaurants becoming ultra-trendy right now, there has bee...
Sangria: The Only Way to Next-Level Your Wine Consumption
With tapas bars and restaurants becoming ultra-trendy right now, there has been a surge in Sangria consumption. Surely you know the stuff. It could be the only possible way known to mankind in which you could improve on a classic red wine. It comes to us from Spain and Portugal, two countries known quite well for taking pleasure in food and drink.
According to historians, the word “Sangria” can be traced back to the 18th century. It is widely surmised that it was derived from the Spanish word for blood, sangre, due to the hue of this adorned wine punch. Not much is truly known about the drink either except that early versions of it were quite popular in Spain and Portugal as well as Greece and even England.
Another version is that a drink called Sangaree, served both hot and cold, came about in the West Indies. It was then introduced into America proper around the early colonial era. But it faded out by the early 20th century. In the late 1940s though, thanks to the influx of many Hispanic Americans coming to America, Sangria once again resurfaced, this time as an iced drink that was commonly served in Spanish restaurants. When the 1964 World’s Fair came to New York, Sangria enjoyed a great rebirth, one that would propel it into popularity once more.
While there is nothing basic about the bewitchingly flavorful Sangria, it seems there’s really no wrong way to make it. Everyone has their own recipe for it, making for part of the fun. Traditionally, it is a punch made with red wine that is brimming with small pieces of fruit. You’ll find it filled with anything from berries, pineapple, peaches, and nectarines to apples, pears and melons.
A little orange juice and sugar sweeten it up. Ideally, you make a large pitcher of this and put it on ice. The longer it sits, the longer the fruit has a chance to absorb the mesmerizing flavor. Some Sangria recipes will also add brandy or even flavored liqueur to add even more alcohol content to the mix. As you may have guessed, this is the perfect drink for a gathering or celebration.
Typically, Spaniards use Rioja red wine to make Sangria. However, a newer concoction has appeared called Sangria Blanca. It is simply Sangria made by using a dry white wine instead. Common white wine choices are Rueda, Valdepeñas, or Jumilla.
You can also find bottled Sangria in your supermarket or favorite wine store. However, you’ll still want to add your favorite fruits and put it in a big pitcher with ice to complete the experience. While it is an ideal refresher for summer, there’s nothing that says you can’t serve it in the cooler months. In fact, with the holidays coming up, it might be the best way to please your guests for the holidays with this light and refreshing libation.
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