Happy National Sangria Day - December 20th

December 20th is the day to celebrate my all-time favorite adult beverage - Sangria. 

National Sangria Day - Every year on December 20th, we celebrate National Sangria Day! The Spanish have spiked the punch and we’re definitely here for it. Whether you prefer red or white, a nice chilled Sangria is no doubt refreshing, and instantly transports you to the sandy beaches of Spain in the Summer. - National Today

We can thank the Spanish for crafting wine punches with their abundance of red grapes, and other fresh fruits that grow well due to the Mediterranean climate. 

Sangria is typically a combination of wine, fruit juices, and flavoring. What I love about Sangria beyond the freshness, and the ease of sipping is that it is so customizable to any pallette. Red wine versus white wine, pome fruit versus citrus flavoring, seltzer water, or liqueurs - each restaurant or bar that you order Sangria from will have a unique take on the traditional cocktail. 

Because Sangria can be made with either red or white wine, it pairs well with many menu options. A red Sangria is good for heartier meals with red meat, and white Sangria goes perfect with seafood and lighters meals of salad. I love trying all the different combinations and ranking my favorites. 

Making and enjoying Sangria is perfect for any gathering no matter what time of year. Sangria can be prepared the night before a party to allow the fruit and wine to meld in harmony. For an easy and traditional recipe to try at home, I love this recipe from Minimalist Baker.

Traditional Sangria Ingredients:

• ½ apple
• ½ orange
• 3-5 tbsp brown sugar
• ¾ cup orange juice
• ⅓ cup brandy
• 1 bottle of dry red wine
• Ice to chill

Sangria Directions:

• Core, and chop apple into small pieces
• Rind on, slice oranges into small pieces, remove seeds
• Add apples, orange, and sugar to pitcher, and muddle
• Add orange juice and brandy, muddle again
• Add red wine, stir, taste, make any necessary adjustments
• Serve over ice with more fruit as a garnish
• Enjoy!

To winterize this recipe, add in a few frozen cranberries, a cinnamon stick, and a rosemary twig, and you instantly have Sangria perfect for the holidays. To lighten it up for summer, use lemons, limes, and garnish with fresh mint leaves, and you have a refreshing cocktail for those hot summer days. 

There are also many pre-made Sangria varieties on the market that are quite fabulous when you are in a pinch. Pour over some ice and add a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice and you are good to sip. 

Red Sangria from The Ocean House, Dennis Port, MA.

Browse EventUp to find a local restaurant to enjoy your next glass of Sangria!

Happy Sipping!