Sangria, the ever-popular Spanish wine punch, has been a favorite among wine enthusiasts and party-goers alike for centuries. With its delightful blend of wine, fruits, and sometimes a splash of brandy, it’s no wonder that sangria has become a beloved beverage all around the world.
But, what if you’re looking for something a little different from the traditional sangria? A wine that can be used on its own or with brandy and orange slices as an untraditional Sangria?
Maybe you’re craving a wine that captures the spirit of sangria without being too sweet or fruity. Look no further!
In this blog post, we’ll explore five wonderful wines or wine based drinks that are similar to sangria, yet offer their own unique flavors and characteristics. We’ll dive into the world of:
1. Lambrusco
2. Beaujolais Nouveau
3. Rosé Wine
4. Vinho Verde
5. Glühwein
Grab a glass and join us on this journey as we uncover these delightful alternatives to sangria!
1. Lambrusco
A Fruity and Effervescent Experience
Originating from the Emilia-Romagna region in Italy, Lambrusco is a sparkling red wine that is both fruity and effervescent. This delightful wine is made from the Lambrusco grape, which yields a beautiful ruby-red color and a fresh, fruity flavor profile.
Much like sangria, Lambrusco is often enjoyed chilled, making it a perfect choice for warm weather gatherings and outdoor events. The wine’s natural sweetness is balanced with a pleasant acidity, giving it a crisp and refreshing taste. Lambrusco is also quite versatile, pairing well with a wide range of dishes, from charcuterie and cheese boards to pasta dishes and grilled meats.
2. Beaujolais Nouveau
A Celebration of the Harvest
Hailing from the Beaujolais region of France, Beaujolais Nouveau is a young and vibrant red wine that is released each year on the third Thursday of November. This annual release is celebrated with much fanfare, as wine lovers eagerly anticipate the arrival of the latest vintage.
Light-bodied and fruity, Beaujolais Nouveau is made from the Gamay grape and is characterized by its bright red fruit flavors, such as cherry, raspberry, and strawberry.
While not as sweet as sangria, this wine shares a similar fruit-forward taste profile, making it a delightful alternative for those who enjoy the fruity essence of sangria but prefer a drier wine.
Serve Beaujolais Nouveau slightly chilled and enjoy it with a variety of dishes, from roasted poultry to seafood and salads.
3. Rosé Wine
A Perfect Balance of Fruit and Freshness
Rosé wine, with its beautiful pink hue and delicate flavors, is another fantastic alternative to sangria. Made by allowing the grape skins to have limited contact with the grape juice during the winemaking process, rosé wines can range from pale salmon to vibrant pink in color.
Rosé wines are incredibly diverse, offering a wide range of flavors, from crisp and refreshing to fruity and sweet.
For a sangria-like experience, look for a rosé wine that showcases bright red fruit flavors, such as strawberry, cherry, or raspberry.
Rosé wines are typically enjoyed chilled and pair well with a variety of dishes, from light appetizers and salads to grilled meats and seafood.
4. Vinho Verde
A Refreshing Taste of Portugal
Vinho Verde, which translates to “green wine” in Portuguese, is a delightful, young white wine from the Minho region of Portugal. Vinho Verde is not actually green in color, but rather refers to the wine’s youthful freshness and vibrancy.
This effervescent white wine boasts a refreshing acidity and low alcohol content, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy the light and refreshing nature of sangria.
Vinho Verde often features flavors of green apple, citrus, and tropical fruits, creating a pleasant and easy-drinking wine experience. Enjoy Vinho Verde well-chilled and pair it with seafood, salads, and light appetizers.
5. Glühwein
A Cozy and Spiced Alternative
For those who love the fruity and spiced flavors of sangria but are looking for a warm and comforting alternative, Glühwein is the perfect choice.
This traditional German mulled wine is typically enjoyed during the holiday season and is made by gently heating red wine with a variety of spices, such as cinnamon, cloves, and star anise.
The warm and inviting flavors of Glühwein make it a lovely alternative to sangria, particularly during the colder months. While Glühwein can be made with a variety of red wines, opt for a fruity and light-bodied wine, such as a Pinot Noir or Beaujolais, for a sangria-inspired experience.
Enjoy Glühwein with holiday treats, roasted meats, and cozy evenings by the fire.
In Conclusion: A World of Sangria-Inspired Wines to Discover
Whether you’re craving the fruity and effervescent flavors of Lambrusco, the vibrant and celebratory essence of Beaujolais Nouveau, the delicate balance of fruit and freshness in Rosé wine, the refreshing taste of Vinho Verde, or the cozy and spiced warmth of Glühwein, there’s a world of sangria-inspired wines just waiting to be discovered.
As a wine enthusiast, I highly recommend exploring these delightful alternatives to sangria. Each wine offers its unique characteristics, capturing the spirit of sangria while providing a fresh and exciting taste experience.
So, why not pour yourself a glass and embark on your own wine journey? Cheers!
FAQs
What is similar to sangria?
A similar drink to sangria would be a punch, which typically combines fruit juices, soda, and sometimes alcohol. Both sangria and punch are refreshing, fruity, and can be enjoyed in large batches for parties or gatherings.
Is sangria a type of wine?
Yes, sangria is a type of wine. It is a traditional Spanish beverage made by mixing red or white wine with fruits, sweeteners, and sometimes spirits.
What can I order instead of sangria?
If you’re looking for an alternative to sangria, you can try ordering a wine spritzer, which is a refreshing mix of wine and soda water. Another option could be a mojito, a classic cocktail made with rum, lime juice, mint leaves, and soda water. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a fruity mocktail like a virgin mojito or a berry-infused iced tea could be a great choice.
What red wine tastes like sangria?
There are several red wines that share flavor profiles similar to sangria. These wines are often fruity, with notes of berries, cherries, and sometimes citrus. Some examples include Beaujolais, Zinfandel, and Grenache. These wines can be enjoyed on their own or used as a base for making homemade sangria.
What is the closest thing to sangria?
The closest thing to sangria would be a fruit punch or a wine-based cocktail that incorporates similar ingredients such as red or white wine, fruit juices, and fruits.
What category of wine is sangria?
Sangria is a type of wine-based cocktail that typically consists of red wine, chopped fruit, sweetener, and occasionally spirits such as brandy. It is not a specific category of wine but rather a popular mixed drink that can be made with various types of wine, including red, white, or rosé.
