Mary’s Pomegranate Red Wine Sangria
Red sangria may be from Spain, but it pairs perfectly with so many Mexican and Italian dishes, too. There’s nothing wrong with just opening a bottle of wine, but sangria is a special treat that’s easy to make and adds a colorful and flavorful touch to any gathering with family and friends.
So let’s talk about how to elevate that bottle of red with a summer favorite, my Pomegranate Red Wine Sangria recipe.
What is sangria?
Sangria is a versatile wine-based punch from the Iberian peninsula. Usually made with a red wine base, a top-notch sangria is infused with fruit, spirits, and sometimes spices. Because it’s kind of showy, it’s fun to serve at gatherings—a drink that looks this beautiful just gets everyone in the party mood! The best part is when the company takes their last sip—then they can grab a fork and enjoy the wine-soaked fruit. Seconds, anyone?
Sangria is the perfect drink for summer entertaining!
Sangria is the perfect party drink: it’s festive, refreshing, very drinkable, and sets a mood. When I see a pitcher of sangria, I know there’s something to celebrate! I personally like to make a big batch of my Pomegranate Red Wine Sangria and serve it in a decorative glass beverage dispenser—it shows off the fruit and holds enough for a crowd. Bonus: If you have a lot of people coming over, you’ll get to spend more time with them.
When I think of sangria, I think of sharing a refreshing drink on the sunny patio with my friends… It's like a cocktail party without the hassle! A cold glass of this fruity red wine punch makes me feel like I’m on vacation. I don’t know about you, but when I get together with my people, I want to catch up with them. I don’t want to miss a moment of laughter or finding out what’s happening in their lives.
What makes sangria sweet?
My Pomegranate Red Wine Sangria recipe is on the sweeter side. It calls for simple syrup, which is (you guessed it) simple to make: Just combine equal amounts of sugar and water in a saucepot, and heat until the sugar melts, stirring occasionally. Then all you have to do is let it cool. Simple syrup keeps well, so you can even make it several days in advance and keep it in a jar in your fridge.
What’s the best wine to use for a red sangria?
My go-to wine for my Pomegranate Red Wine Sangria recipe is a good Chianti or Rioja. I recommend pairing this drink with empanadas, grilled steaks, sausage with peppers, or seafood paella. For an even more gorgeous version that pairs well with different foods, try my white wine sangria too!
Mary’s Pomegranate Red Wine Sangria Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 bottles of red Spanish table wine
- 1 cup brandy
- ½ cup triple sec
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 cup pomegranate juice
- ½ cup simple syrup, or more to taste
- Orange slices
- Apple slices
- Fresh blackberries
- Pomegranate arils (seeds)
Instructions
- Make the simple syrup. Combine the sugar and water in a sauce pot. Bring to a simmer, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Once the sugar is dissolved, turn off the heat and allow to cool to room temperature.
- Mix all the liquid ingredients together in a large pitcher or bowl. Seal the top tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.
- When you’re ready to serve your sangria, add the fruit garnish to the liquid, and most importantly, enjoy!