The Sun-Drenched Soul of Spain: A Guide to Authentic Traditional Sangria

There are few drinks that evoke the effortless romance and lively energy of the Mediterranean quite like sangria. Picture a warm evening on a shaded terrace in Madrid or Seville, the chatter of friends echoing in the air, and a heavy glass pitcher glistening with condensation, filled to the brim with dark red wine, floating citrus, and ice.

Yet, for all its international fame, sangria is often misunderstood abroad. Walk into a bar outside of Spain, and you might encounter a sickly-sweet concoction made from cheap boxed wine, artificial syrups, and a random assortment of bruised fruit.