Authentic Spanish Red Sangria (Inspired By Jaleo)
If you’re searching for THE best red sangria recipe… this is it.
There are a lot of sangria recipes out there—and I’ve tried more than I can count—but most of them?
They taste like watered-down wine.
And that’s just not acceptable.
This version is bold, balanced, citrusy, slightly spiced, and full of depth. It’s not overly boozy, but it does have that layered flavor that makes every sip interesting (and very drinkable).
Trust me… this one’s a winner.
Why This Sangria Is Different
Most sangrias fall flat because they:
- use too much juice or soda
- skip layering flavors
- end up tasting diluted
This recipe fixes all of that by using:
- a good red wine base
- a blend of spirits for depth
- fresh citrus + cinnamon for warmth and brightness
The result: a sangria that tastes like something you’d order at a restaurant, not a rushed pitcher drink.
Inspired by Spanish Tapas Culture
I’m lucky enough to live near Jaleo, one of my favorite spots for authentic Spanish tapas by José Andrés.
If you’ve ever been, you know—their red sangria is iconic.
This recipe is inspired by the version featured in his cookbook: Made in Spain: Spanish Dishes for the American Kitchen.
And let me tell you… it delivers.
Pro Tips (Don’t Skip)
- Use a good quality wine—it makes a difference
- Don’t skip the cinnamon stick → adds subtle warmth
- Let it sit long enough → flavor develops over time
- Add soda water last → keeps it fresh and bubbly
My Go-To Kitchen Staples
- A large glass pitcher or dispenser (perfect for parties)
- Stainless wine tumblers + stainless pitcher (ideal for outdoor chillin)
- Chef’s knife + cutting board for clean fruit slices
- Organic cinnamon sticks
- Citrus juicer
- Hobnail vintage glasses
I always link my exact favorites, so you can recreate this perfectly at home. If you click and buy, I might earn a little commission—thanks for the love!
The Ultimate Summer Drink
This is the kind of recipe people ask for after one sip.
It’s easy, impressive, and perfect for entertaining, but also simple enough to make just because.
Make it once, and I promise… it’ll become your go-to.
Gina
José Andrés Red Wine Sangria
Ingredients
- 1 Bottle of Fruity Red Wine such as a Garnacha
- 5 Tbsp of Brandy
- 1/4 cup Contreau or other top quality orange flavored liquer
- 1/4 cup Vodka
- 1 Splash Ruby Port
- 1 Orange peeled and sliced
- 2 Granny Smith apples cored and diced
- 1 Cinnamon stick
- 1 – 2 Strips of lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 Splash of soda water
Instructions
- Combine the wine, brandy, Cointreau, vodka, port, orange, apples, cinnamon stick, and lemon zest in a bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- When you are ready to serve, pour the mixture into a pitcher filled halfway with ice.
- Add the orange juice, soda water, give a quick stir, and serve immediately.
- Make sure each glass gets some ice and fruit and enjoy!
