Blood Orange and Fennel Sangria

Think you know sangria? Try the intriguing combination of blood orange and fennel. This refreshing twist on the classic Spanish beverage brings together the vibrant, citrusy punch of blood oranges with the subtle, aromatic notes of fennel.

Picture a base of dry white wine, complemented by freshly squeezed blood orange juice, brandy, and triple sec. Adding slices of blood orange, fennel, lemon, and lime not only boosts the flavor but also creates a visually striking presentation.

What if there’s a way to elevate this drink even further?

Origins of Blood Orange Sangria

Blood Orange Sangria has its origins in the classic Spanish sangria, a beloved punch enjoyed for centuries. Emerging from Spain and Portugal, sangria was initially a blend of red wine, fruits, and spices, crafted to keep people cool during the hot Iberian summers.

Over time, the basic recipe evolved, incorporating regional fruits and flavors.

Blood oranges, a Mediterranean staple known for their deep red flesh and unique, berry-like flavor, eventually found their way into sangria. As Mediterranean cuisine gained global popularity, these vibrant citrus fruits became more widely used. They add a delightful twist to the classic sangria, infusing it with distinctive color and taste.

Adventurous mixologists and home bartenders began experimenting with various ingredients, and blood oranges quickly became a favorite. Their rich, tangy flavor pairs perfectly with wine, creating a harmonious balance.

Combining traditional sangria with the bold essence of blood oranges results in a drink that’s both familiar and exciting.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle of dry white wine or red wine
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed blood orange juice
• 1/4 cup brandy
• 1/4 cup triple sec
• 1/4 cup simple syrup
• 1 blood orange, thinly sliced
• 1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 1 lime, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup club soda
• Ice

Instructions

To get started, prepare all your ingredients and have them ready. This makes the process seamless and enjoyable.

Begin by slicing the blood oranges and fennel thinly. These will provide the foundational flavors for your sangria.

Next, in a large pitcher, combine the following:

• Blood orange slices
• Fennel slices
• Red wine
• Grand Marnier or orange liqueur
• Freshly squeezed orange juice

Stir gently to mix everything together.

Let the mixture sit for at least an hour in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

After the mixture has chilled, taste the sangria. If you prefer it sweeter, add a bit of simple syrup or honey to suit your palate.

Once you’re satisfied with the flavor, add ice to the pitcher, ensuring the sangria remains refreshing as you serve it.

Enhancing Flavor With Herbs

After your sangria has melded beautifully in the refrigerator, think about adding another layer of complexity. Fresh herbs can elevate your Blood Orange and Fennel Sangria, bringing aromatic and flavorful dimensions that make the drink irresistible.

Consider these three herbs for enhancing your sangria:

Herb	Flavor Profile	How to Use
Mint	Refreshing, cool	Add whole leaves or sprigs
Basil	Sweet, slightly peppery	Tear leaves for a subtle infusion
Rosemary	Pine-like, robust	Use sparingly, add a small sprig

Mint’s refreshing and cool notes lighten the palate, making each sip more invigorating. Simply add whole leaves or sprigs directly into the pitcher. Basil, with its sweet and slightly peppery taste, adds a unique twist. Tear the leaves before adding them to release their essential oils. Rosemary offers a pine-like, robust flavor; a small sprig is enough to infuse your sangria with its distinctive aroma.

Experiment with these herbs to find your perfect balance. Herbs should complement, not overpower, the existing flavors. Adding them just before serving ensures they remain vibrant and fresh, enhancing your sangria to perfection.

Final Thoughts

Appreciate the intricate layers of flavor you’ve built in your Blood Orange and Fennel Sangria. The sweet, tangy notes of blood oranges combined with the delicate, anise-like essence of fennel create a harmonious blend. Every sip should celebrate these elements, enhanced by the herbs you carefully selected.

Take your time with this step. Pour a glass, allow the sangria to breathe, and savor its aroma. Notice how the citrus and fennel meld together, creating a unique bouquet. As you taste, appreciate how each ingredient complements the others, forming a balanced, refreshing drink.

Consider the texture as well. The slight effervescence from any sparkling components, like club soda or sparkling wine, gives the sangria a lively finish.

The fruit slices not only add visual appeal but also infuse the sangria with their natural sweetness over time.