What is the best red wine for sangria?

Answered by Brandon Riddell

When it comes to choosing the best red for sangria, there are a few factors to consider. Personally, I find that using Nero d'Avola is an excellent choice. This medium-bodied, dry from Sicily has a wonderful balance of sweet tannins and plum flavors, which make it a great option for Sangria.

One of the reasons I like using Nero d'Avola is because it adds depth and complexity to the sangria. Its sweet tannins provide a pleasant mouthfeel, while the plum flavors add a fruity note to the mix. This combination works well with the other ingredients typically used in Sangria, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

When making Sangria, it's important to choose a wine that is not overly tannic or too heavy-bodied. The flavors of the wine should complement the other ingredients rather than overpower them. Nero d'Avola strikes a perfect balance in this regard, making it an ideal choice.

In addition to the wine, the choice of fruits and other ingredients can also make a difference in the overall flavor profile of the Sangria. For a classic approach, I like to use blood oranges and other fresh citrus fruits. The bright and tangy flavors of the citrus pair beautifully with the sweet and fruity notes of Nero d'Avola.

However, if you're looking for a Sicilian-inspired twist on Sangria, you can experiment with using Sicilian fruits such as prickly pears or even adding a splash of amaretto . These additions can add a unique and exotic touch to the Sangria, enhancing the overall experience.

To create a delicious Sangria using Nero d'Avola, start by slicing blood oranges and any other citrus fruits you prefer. In a pitcher, combine the sliced fruits with a bottle of Nero d'Avola. You can also add a small amount of simple syrup or a sweetener of your choice if you prefer a slightly sweeter Sangria.

Allow the flavors to meld together by refrigerating the pitcher for a few hours or overnight. This will allow the fruits to infuse their flavors into the wine, creating a refreshing and flavorful Sangria.

When serving, you can garnish the Sangria with additional citrus slices or even fresh herbs like mint or basil for an added touch of freshness. Serve it chilled and enjoy!

Nero d'Avola is my go-to choice for making Sangria. Its medium-bodied nature, sweet tannins, and plum flavors make it a perfect match for this fruity and refreshing drink. Whether you stick to the classic citrus fruits or experiment with Sicilian-inspired twists, using Nero d'Avola as the base wine will result in a delicious and satisfying Sangria experience.