Guide to Barcelona

Sangria

Sunday, 04 July 2010 11:27

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Sangria, the internationally known and very popular party drink finds its origin in Spain in the 19th century when it was served at aristocratic gatherings and banquets to please the crowds. But it had not been until the 1960s that the fruit punch had become a world-widely known phenomenon that is nowadays consumed almost anywhere especially by the younger generation at gatherings and parties. However, Sangria remains a true Spanish speciality that is served throughout the country during the summer and in the Southern and Eastern parts of the country also during the year.

Traditionally, Sangria is a punch made from red wine together with a variety of fruit and ice. The ingredients are first mixed together without the ice-cubes. After some refrigerating time (ideally 6 to 12 h) has been given to the mix in order for the flavors to blend together, the ice is then added and the drink is ready to be served. Often the pincher in which the drink is served is quite large so that it can hold the entire bottle of wine used as well as all the other ingredients. Also, it is important that the pincher has a lid to hold back the ice and fruit when pouring the drink.

The alcohol content of the fruit punch can vary greatly depending on the ingredients used and so does the recipe. There is no general recipe for the one and only Spanish Sangria. Also in Spain every restaurant has their own way of making Sangria and it greatly depends on personal preferences and taste.

Usually, red wine is used as main ingredient; however, there are also some variations with white wine which is then called Sangria Blanca.

A bottled variation has recently become a trend in other European countries such as the UK and Germany, however, this version is considered inferior quality by real Sangria lovers as it is often made from cheap, low-quality wine and it also lacks the social part of the Sangria experience -the fun of customizing your own recipe and preparing it together with others.Therefore, to get the true Sangria experience one should choose one’s favorite fruit and wine and prepare it and enjoy it together with friends. There is no rule for what is right or what is wrong in making Sangria.

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