Originally from its humble roots in Spain, Sangria has become a worldwide sensation. While Americans first tasted the red wine punch at the 1964 World’s Fair in New York, the history of Sangria can be traced back 200 BC,the Romans enjoyed drinking red wines from Spain. They began naming the wines and wine-based punches sangria, but it wasn't quite what it was today. More than a century later, sangria would become a popular drink in Europe, specifically when made with French Bordeaux as the boozy base.
Like many countries who were invaded by the Romans, Spain began actively planting grapes to make into wine and trade with the Romans. Soon, wine became the drink of choice for people of all ages. It is important to remember that before modern times water was full of bacteria and not safe to drink. Any liquid with at least some alcohol in it would kill the bacteria making it the beverage of choice. To liven things up, households who lived near where the grapes were grown would add other fruits and spices to the wine, giving it a different flavor. These ingredients made way for the traditional Spanish red wine punch, Sangria.
Sangria had another upgrade during the 1700s and 1800s when the British and French got involved. The new base of the punch became Claret (the British term for the French Bordeaux). Also added to the mix: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Finished off with a mix of fruits, a bowl of Sangria was found at every party from Cadiz to London.
Over the centuries Sangria maintained its popularity. It is relatively easy to make and is the perfect summer drink. The fresh fruit and your choice of your favorite red wines chill overnight to create a refreshing punch. These harmonious flavors create a drink completely unique to you and are ideal for any summertime fiesta.
INGREDIENTS
1750ml.bottle of red wine
1/2 cup superfine bar sugar
3 oz.peach schnapps
6 oz.Simple Syrup
3 oz.freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 cup sliced red grapes
2 Valencia oranges,unpeeled and sliced
1 pinch of ground cloves
3 cinnamon sticks
2 whole vanilla beans
METHOD
1 Mix together the wine,sugar,peach schnapps,Simple Syrup,orange juice,and lemon juice in a glass jar until well combined.
2 Add the sliced grapes and oranges,and the ground cloves,cinnamon sticks,and vanilla beans.
3 Refrigerate for at least 24 hours.
4 Serve the next day from a large pitcher with ice.
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