Blood orange sangria is a refreshing cocktail that combines the tart taste of blood oranges with smooth wine and other simple ingredients. I like to serve this drink when I want something colorful and easy to make for friends or family.
Making this sangria doesn’t take much time. Most of the ingredients are easy to find.
I find that the bold flavor of blood oranges makes this recipe stand out from regular sangria. The bright red color and fruity taste make it a good pick for any gathering.
Blood Orange Sangria Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- I need a sharp knife and a cutting board for cutting fruit.
- A large pitcher, ideally holding at least 2 quarts (2 liters), works best for mixing and serving.
- For measuring liquids, I prefer using a jigger or liquid measuring cup to ensure accuracy.
- If I want the drink cold immediately, I keep a long spoon handy for stirring and ice cubes or a wine chiller to cool the sangria. Glassware can be simple wine glasses or tumblers.
- I like to have a small strainer for pouring if I want to hold back most fruit bits.
Ingredients
- I use about 2-3 blood oranges thinly sliced, to infuse color and flavor.
- I also use 1 bottle 750ml of dry red or white wine (Spanish varieties like Tempranillo or Albariño work well).
- For sweetness and depth I add 1/4 cup brandy and 1/4 cup orange liqueur (such as Cointreau).
- To balance the flavors I mix in 1/2 cup orange juice—freshly squeezed if possible.
- Optional fruits such as sliced lemons, limes, or apples, add extra taste and color.
- I sometimes use 2-3 tablespoons of simple syrup or honey if the oranges are not sweet enough.
- For serving I use club soda or sparkling water to add fizz.
Instructions
- First, I wash and slice the blood oranges into thin rounds, removing any seeds. I also slice any additional fruits I want to use.
- Next, I place all sliced fruits into a large pitcher. I pour the wine, brandy, orange liqueur, and orange juice over the fruit.
- If I want a sweeter sangria, I stir in simple syrup or honey. I use a long spoon to mix everything gently, making sure the fruit is well combined with the liquid.
- I cover the pitcher and chill the sangria in the fridge for at least 2 hours (overnight lets the flavors blend even more). Right before serving, I add club soda or sparkling water to taste.
- I pour the sangria into glasses, making sure to include the fruit slices.
Notes
Tasting Notes
When I taste a Blood Orange Sangria, the first thing I notice is the bright citrus flavor. The blood orange brings a mix of sweet and tart, which stands out right away.
The color is a striking shade of red-orange. I find the drink looks appealing and inviting in the glass.
The wine adds a smooth background without overpowering the fruit. Sometimes, I pick up mellow hints of berry or apple if those fruits are in the mix.
I notice a gentle fizz if I use sparkling water or club soda. It keeps the sangria light and easy to drink.
Blood orange gives a unique twist compared to regular orange. There’s a slight raspberry-like hint that I can taste, especially when the sangria is chilled.
I enjoy how the flavors stay balanced—even after a few sips, the sangria doesn’t taste too sweet or too sharp. Each glass has a clean finish and works well with simple snacks or light meals.

