Sangria Recipe Roundup: Spain's Party Punch

Sangria made its debut in the US at the 1964 World's Fair in New York City. Since then it's become a refreshing summer staple for adults. While sangria originally hails from Spain and Portugal, the only people you'll find drinking it there are tourists. Apparently that's because Spaniards regard sangria much the same way we view fraternity house punch: sweet ingredients to cover the taste of alcohol, intended to get everyone drunk as cheaply as possible.

But don't let Spain's opinion of sangria dissuade you from enjoying a glass this summer. You don't have to use cheap or poor quality ingredients in your sangria recipe, nor do you have to gulp it from red Solo cups. We've gathered a few of the most fun sangria recipes we could find, including a non-alcoholic version that comes close to the real thing.

(And if you want to know what Spaniards drink, it's vermouth.)

Rainbow Sangria Recipe

This sangria from Gimme Some Oven is probably more fruit than wine, but the beautiful presentation is worth it. Besides, who couldn't use more fruit in their diet? Fill glasses with rainbow layers of fruit, then mix the liquid ingredients in the pitcher and pour into everyone's glasses. Be sure to serve with long teaspoons so everyone can spoon up the fruit as it macerates.

Fruity White Sangria Recipe

At first this sangria recipe might seem run of the mill, but it has a secret ingredient: vanilla extract. The authors at Inspired Taste swear the addition of vanilla transforms this recipe. Make it in advance to let the flavors meld, whether you stick with the fruit in the recipe or get creative with your own favorites.

Red, White and Blue Sangria Recipe

Already thinking about the 4th of July? We've got you covered with this sangria recipe from Recipe Girl that features strawberries, blueberries and pineapple chunks (cut into star shapes, if you're fancy). Instead of the traditional splash of brandy, this recipe calls for triple sec. It also includes white wine, but we think this could work with red too.

Non-Alcoholic Sangria Recipe

We're intrigued by this recipe from the Kitchn that uses black tea and pomegranate juice to mimic the flavor and bite of red wine. This is another make-ahead recipe, but just before serving you should add carbonated water.

Iced Peach Tea Sangria

Finally, here's another reason to make iced tea: it's a delicious base for sangria, especially since fruit and tea blend well. While this recipe from Bite Me More calls for peach iced tea, we propose infusing your simple syrup with peaches instead. Then just add your iced tea of choice. Keep in mind this sangria should sit overnight. So if you plan to cold brew iced tea, you'll need to start 48 hours in advance. The results ought to be worth the wait.