Latino-Style Tropical Red Wine Sangria with Brandy
There is something undeniably festive about a chilled pitcher of Sangria Latino-style. Unlike the more traditional Spanish versions, this recipe embraces the tropical soul of Latin America by incorporating pineapple juice and a hint of agave. It’s a bold, punchy, and deeply refreshing drink that transforms any casual gathering into a vibrant fiesta, making it the ultimate centerpiece for your outdoor table.
The secret to a truly great sangria lies in the maceration process. By letting the fresh apples, oranges, and pineapples soak in a mixture of red wine, brandy, and citrus juices, the flavors meld together into something much more complex than the sum of its parts. I always recommend using a jammy Malbec or a spicy Tempranillo to provide a sturdy backbone for all that bright fruit.
Nutrition (per serving)
Directions
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1
In a large glass pitcher, combine the orange juice, pineapple juice, and agave nectar. Stir until the agave is fully dissolved.
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2
Pour in the bottle of red wine and the brandy. Stir gently to combine.
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3
Add the sliced oranges, chopped apples, pineapple cubes, and the cinnamon stick to the pitcher.
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4
Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, though overnight is best to allow the fruits to macerate and the flavors to develop.
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5
When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice and pour the sangria until the glass is three-quarters full, ensuring some fruit pieces get into every glass.
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6
Top each glass with a splash of chilled club soda for a little fizz and garnish with a fresh sprig of mint if desired.
Ingredients
- Dry red wine (such as Malbec or Tempranillo):25 oz
- Brandy:0.5 cup
- Orange juice:1 cup
- Pineapple juice:0.5 cup
- Agave nectar:2 tbsp
- Orange, thinly sliced into rounds:1 piece
- Green apple, cored and chopped:1 piece
- Fresh pineapple, cubed:1 cup
- Cinnamon stick:1 piece
- Club soda (to top):1 cup
Tips & Notes
- For the best flavor, use a mid-range wine that you would enjoy drinking on its own—nothing too expensive, but nothing too cheap.
- If you prefer a sweeter sangria, you can increase the agave nectar or use a lemon-lime soda instead of club soda.
- Freeze some of the fruit pieces before adding them to keep the drink cold without diluting it with too much ice.
