Type of Red Wine to Use for Sangria?

[Illjazz]

I've found several types of sangria recipes on the web, but none of them make any suggestions about what type of red wine to use. I like pinot noir and thought to use that. The first pitcher of sangria I made, I used Zinfandel, but didn't really like it as much. The other red wines I thought to use might be Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot Cabernet. Anyone have any suggestions?

Edit: Let me add, that I know there are sangria blanca recipes out there too, and later will probably use a good Riesling or White Zinfandel, but I'm trying to master the classic sangria first.

[MixyFlairStyle]

the word SANGRIA comes from the Spanish SANGRE meaning BLOOD
and from that reason we have to used Spanish or Portuguese wines because Sangria is a wine punch typically for that area,but you have to use any red wine because the big secret in recepie is that when you cut the fruit you must put it in the wine and leave it over the night because fruit should release the juices and band together with red wine.

[MixyFlairStyle]

btw.I have over 25 recepies of Sangria what's means that you can combine and mix a lot kind of fruits and lot of flavours.......... for Sangria ......only the sky is the limit!!!

[Illjazz]

I'm aware of everything you just said, so, are you saying it doesn't really matter which wine because of the soaking of the fruit? Also, what type of Spanish or Portuguese wines are good to use? Of course, I know nothing beyond just the grocery store wines I usually buy.

[MixyFlairStyle]

I'm aware of everything you just said, so, are you saying it doesn't really matter which wine because of the soaking of the fruit? Also, what type of Spanish or Portuguese wines are good to use? Of course, I know nothing beyond just the grocery store wines I usually buy.

Yes,you get it OK.
generally it doesn't really matter which wine you are useing for Sangria but only from the reason country of origin (Spain,Portugal) you can use Spanish wines but that can't guarantee the better quality or flavour... ;)

[Illjazz]

I recently realized that I've not really had sangria made in restaurants. I've only tasted what my girlfriend would get. So, I'm not positive on exactly how it should taste. Does sangria usually keep some of the tartness of wine or does it go down smooth like a punch? I just made another batch, and I think it came out good, but I think I used too much orange juice (perhaps also maybe too much fruit) and soda, and so it tastes more like punch but with only a little kick of wine. So again, should sangria still keep a stronger wine taste?

[MixyFlairStyle]

... Sangria has to retain unchanged the wine taste but that taste should be emblam and dose of fruit juices which are responsible for that specific flavour of Sangria.

The best Sangria is always the one which is prepared at home but all times you must respect the proportions in recipe........and only in that case you will drink real Sangria!

[MixyFlairStyle]

Sangria is based on the traditional red wine punch popular across Europe for hundreds of years. The punch base would be Claret, i.e. Bordeaux wine from France. Brandy and fruit would be added to the punch for flavor.

Every restaurant has its own Sangria recipe - typically a mix of wine, brandy and fresh fruits, served over ice. It's one of the most individualistic drinks on the market. Don't just buy a mix at the store - have fun and create your own! Sangria's appeal is all about taking your favorite red wine, your favorite fruits, and experimenting with them.

[MixyFlairStyle]

Sangria is typically created from red wine, fruit juices, soda water, fruit and sometimes brandy. When making your own Sangria, use a good quality red wine, and be sure to let it chill overnight. Use Rioja to get the authentic Spanish flavor, but definitely choose something you like - you're the one drinking it! In the morning, pour into a pitcher full of ice cubes, garnish with fresh fruit, and enjoy.