Embrace the bright, citrusy flavors of Blood Orange Sangria, a refreshing and tangy take on the classic Spanish punch. This drink combines the deep, juicy flavor of blood oranges with red wine, brandy, and an assortment of fresh fruits, resulting in a sangria that’s both fruity and robust.
Equipment
You will need a large pitcher to mix your ingredients. A citrus juicer will make extracting the blood orange juice easier. Having a long spoon or stirrer for mixing is also useful. For serving, prepare glasses and ice. Optional but helpful equipment includes a fruit knife and a cutting board for slicing fruits.
Ingredients
For Blood Orange Sangria, you need wine (red or white), blood orange juice, and slices of blood oranges. Additional ingredients may include pear brandy, pomegranate arils, simple syrup, and triple sec. You may also want to add other fruits like strawberries, apples, or berries. Club soda or champagne can add a festive fizz.
Instructions
- Combine wine and juice: In a large pitcher, pour your wine and add the blood orange juice.
- Add liqueurs: If using, pour in brandy or triple sec.
- Add fruits: Mix in the blood orange slices and additional fruits.
- Sweeten: Stir in simple syrup to taste.
- Chill: Let it infuse in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
- Serve: Pour over ice and garnish with additional fruit slices.
Tasting Notes
Blood Orange Sangria is a balanced mix of sweet and tart flavors. The wine offers a smooth base complemented by the citrusy zest of blood oranges. Adding brandy or triple sec brings warmth and complexity. This drink is fruity yet not overly sweet, making it ideal for warm weather.
Similar Cocktails
- Classic Sangria: Typically made with red wine, orange juice, and brandy, garnished with various fruits.
- White Sangria: Uses white wine and often includes fruits like peaches, apples, and lemons.
- Champagne Sangria: Incorporates sparkling wine or champagne for a bubbly twist.
History
Sangria originated in Spain and Portugal. The term “sangria” comes from the Spanish word “sangre,” meaning blood, due to its deep red color. Its popularity spread internationally, and variations emerged, including using different fruits and even white wine.
Quick Pro Tips
- Use a good-quality wine for the best flavor.
- Chill the sangria to help the flavors meld together.
- Customize the fruits based on the season and your preferences.
- Let the sangria sit for at least a few hours before serving for better infusion.
When to Serve
Blood Orange Sangria is perfect for summer parties, BBQs, or any casual gathering. It also pairs well with tapas, grilled meats, and light appetizers. Consider serving it during brunch or festive occasions like birthdays and holidays. It’s versatile and can easily be adapted to suit different events.
Leave a Reply