Quick and Easy Traditional Red Sangria Recipe (Just 10 Minutes Prep!)

Sangria isn’t just a drink—it’s a vibe. It’s what you serve when you want your table to feel relaxed, inviting, and full of life. This traditional red sangria recipe is as close as it gets to the original Spanish version: rustic, fruity, and effortlessly festive.

Whether you’re hosting tapas night, planning a casual weekend dinner, or just craving something bold and refreshing, this basic red sangria recipe is a must-have in your repertoire. It's the perfect blend of easy preparation, everyday ingredients, and authentic Spanish flavor.

Unlike modern twists with exotic fruit or unusual spirits, a traditional red sangria recipe sticks to what works—dry red wine, citrus, apples, a splash of brandy, and a little patience while it chills. You don’t need fancy techniques. You just need good wine, fresh fruit, and friends to share it with.

Ingredients

For this basic red sangria recipe, here’s everything you need:

• 1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine – Spanish Rioja, Garnacha, or Tempranillo preferred
• 1 orange, sliced into rounds
• 1 lemon, sliced into rounds
• 1 apple, diced
• 1/2 cup orange juice – Fresh or store-bought
• 1/4 cup brandy – Optional, but traditional
• 2 to 3 tablespoons sugar – Sweetness depends on your fruit and wine
• 1–2 cups club soda or sparkling water – Add before serving if you like it fizzy
• Ice, for serving

Preparation

Step 1: Muddle your fruit
Add orange, lemon, and apple slices to a large pitcher. Sprinkle sugar over the fruit and lightly muddle with a wooden spoon to release the juices.

Step 2: Mix the base
Pour in your dry red wine, orange juice, and brandy. Stir everything together until the sugar dissolves and the mix looks vibrant.

Step 3: Let it rest
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best). The longer it sits, the better this traditional red sangria recipe develops.

Step 4: Serve and sparkle
Add ice and, if desired, a splash of club soda just before serving. Pour into glasses, making sure each one has some fruit from the pitcher.

This is the kind of basic red sangria recipe that turns into a ritual—you’ll know it by heart after the first time.

Best Wines for a Traditional Red Sangria Recipe

The secret to a perfect traditional red sangria recipe isn’t just in the fruit or the chill time—it starts with the wine. Spanish reds are ideal for sangria because they’re dry, fruit-forward, and complement citrus without overpowering it. Here are three excellent options that bring authenticity, balance, and flavor to your glass.

Campo Viejo Rioja Tempranillo

Bodegas Breca - Garnacha De Fuego

Marques De Caceres Crianza 19

Tips When Choosing Wine for Sangria

When selecting wine for sangria, always choose a dry or medium-bodied red—something fruity but not overly sweet. Heavy oak or high-tannin wines can overwhelm the freshness of the fruit, so it’s best to avoid those. Instead, look for affordable Spanish wines in the $8–$15 range, such as Tempranillo, Garnacha, or Rioja. A great traditional red sangria recipe should strike a balance between the wine and the fruit—neither should dominate, but rather complement each other to create a smooth, refreshing blend.

Perfect Pairings

Sangria is a social drink, and it shines when served alongside bold, flavorful food. Spanish cheeses like Manchego, cured meats such as chorizo and jamón, and briny olives are all excellent matches. Grilled seafood, tapas-style bites, and classic dishes like patatas bravas or paella also pair beautifully. Whether you're planning a festive tapas night or a relaxed backyard gathering, this basic red sangria recipe brings everyone around the table with ease and joy.

Final Thoughts

Simplicity is the strength of this traditional red sangria recipe. It’s quick, flexible, and flavor-packed. You can tweak it, scale it up for a crowd, or let it chill overnight for a deeper taste. It’s festive without being fussy—exactly what sangria is meant to be.

If you’re ready to try this basic red sangria recipe at home, browse Arlington Wine & Liquor to find the perfect bottle of Rioja, Garnacha, or Tempranillo. We’ve curated the ideal wines to help you bring this Spanish classic to life—cheers to a pitcher full of flavor and good company.