History of Sangria

Sangria has a very long and distinguished historical tradition among various popular wines. The first recorded accounts of Sangria originate in 200 BC when Romans started consuming a red wine from Spain – later named Sangria. They would particularly appreciate the flavors when the wines would come from French Bordeaux. Since then, Sangria has remained a famous cocktail in many regions, especially in Europe.

Illustration of pretty woman with sangria

Currently, many different fruits and Cognac—a type of brandy manufactured in the French city of Cognac—are mixed in Sangria to create strong and delicious tastes. During the 18^th century, this drink became so popular that everyone would consume it, including the fictitious characters in the classic novels of Jane Austen.

The Roman Influence

When the Romans invaded several European countries, they started planting grapes and developing vineyards to produce wine and sell it to the Roman invaders. Spain was amongst the first European countries to grow grapes on massive scales to manufacture wines.

Consequently, wine became a trendy beverage in the country – savored by most people of all age groups. One of the primary reasons for using wine was its health and safety. In major cities and communities, water was not safe to drink due to the contamination and presentence of microorganisms. On the contrary, a wine contained alcoholic content that would kill any such organisms to make it secure for consumption.

Many winegrowers would dwell near their vineyards and grow other fruits besides winegrapes. They would mix these fruits with their wines to spice their beverages and develop novel tastes. This beverage got better with more experimentation with various ingredients, quantities, and grape varieties as time passed. The traditional hot climate in Spain also played a role in the drink’s popularity.

History of Sangria

Eventually, this beverage evolved to become the customary Spanish red wine – popularly known as Sangria today.

During the 1700s and 1800s, French Claret grape varieties—like Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon—became an integral part of Sangria. Consequently, a goblet of Sangria wine with a fruit topping could be witnessed at parties and other festive occasions from the British capital, London, to the Spanish port city of Cadiz.

In 1964, a World Fair was held in New York in the USA, and its Spanish exhibition of cuisine and culture sparkled by Sangria’s delicious punch. Since that day, Sangria quickly turned into a party beverage across the country during summer breaks and picnic parties.

Did you Know?

The Romans visited Spain in 200 BC and started relishing Spanish red wines, which they later called Sangria.

Sangria helps slow the aging process in humans due to flavonoids and antioxidant contents.

Sangria wine has a richer alcoholic concentration than a typical wine – more than 11%.

For centuries, Sangria wine has continued to relish people in Europe, the USA, and elsewhere. It is a simple beverage to make and serves your taste buds well during the summer months.

A delightful punch can be produced by combining juicy fruits and wine of choice. Thus, the drink’s unique and exclusive taste is specially tailored for summer parties and fiesta.

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On this Day

200 BC: The earliest historical evidence of Sangria wine is traced in relics and books in Spain during Roman Empire.

1700s & 1800s: During these centuries, Sangria saw a mixing of various grape varieties, such as Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, etc., along with toppings of fresh fruits.

1964: In New York, a World Fair was organized this year, where Sangria was introduced to American consumers. Sooner, it developed into a beverage of choice for most Americans.