ABOUT SANGRIA

Because of the variation in recipes, sangria's alcoholic content can vary greatly. The ingredients in sangria vary, particularly in the type of fruit used, the kind of spirits added (if any), and the presence or lack of carbonation. White wine can be used instead of red, in which case the result is called sangria blanca. In some parts of southern Spain, sangria is called zurra and is made with peaches or nectarines. In most recipes, wine is the dominant ingredient and acts as a base.

Preparation consists of cutting the fruit in thin slices or small cubes, then mixing in advance all ingredients except for ice and carbonated sodas. After several hours in a refrigerator to allow time for the fruit flavors to blend with the rest of the ingredients, the ice and any last-minute ingredients are added and the drinks are poured. In Spain, sangria is served throughout the country during summer, and around the year in the southern and eastern parts of the country.

Bottled sangria can be bought in some countries, but this is considered by some to be less entertaining than making it oneself. In the parlance of EU administrators, such products are referred to as "aromatised wines".

In the United Kingdom and India the attractions of Spain are often summed up by the phrase, "Sun, sea, (sex) and sangria".