Red Wine Sangria: A Crowd-Pleasing Party Drink

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For so many, Superbowl Sunday is synonymous with beer and snacks. Honestly, my favorite part of the day is planning what we’re going to eat and drink! One thing hosts sometimes overlook is that this is a co-ed celebration, and not everyone enjoys beer.

Only a couple of my girlfriends like to drink beer, so for the rest, why not whip up a Superbowl Sangria?

Sangria is incredibly easy to make, and the best part? It’s even better when prepared the night before—making your party prep a breeze!

This red sangria recipe is perfect for a winter gathering, with its rich wine base and seasonal citrus fruits.

So, let’s dive into the steps to create this crowd-pleasing Superbowl Sangria.

Why Red Sangria is Perfect for Winter

Winter is the season for cozy drinks, and red wine fits the bill perfectly. A dry red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Pinot Noir serves as the base for this sangria.

Pair it with seasonal citrus fruits like oranges and lemons, which are abundant in winter, and you’ve got a drink that’s both flavorful and festive.

The addition of apricot brandy and a splash of orange juice elevates the taste, adding a hint of sweetness without overpowering the wine.

This combination creates a vibrant, fruit-forward drink that pairs well with classic Superbowl snacks.

Preparing the Sangria in Advance

Hosting a Superbowl party is all about minimizing last-minute stress, and this sangria lets you do just that. The night before the big game:

1. Pour a bottle of dry red wine into a large pitcher.
2. Add orange juice and apricot brandy.
3. Slice fresh oranges, lemons, and hearty berries like blackberries and grapes. (Avoid strawberries—they tend to break down too much.)
4. Stir everything together and refrigerate for 12-24 hours.

This resting period allows the flavors to meld together, creating a deliciously balanced sangria that’s ready to impress your guests.

Serving Your Superbowl Sangria

When it’s time to serve, simply pull out your pitcher and top off each glass with either seltzer water or 7-Up, depending on your guests’ sweetness preferences. To keep the sangria fresh for the next day, avoid adding soda directly to the pitcher—it can go flat and compromise the flavor.

Pro tip: Serve the sangria in ice-filled wine glasses for the perfect presentation.

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Perfect Appetizers to Pair with Superbowl Sangria

Pairing your Superbowl Sangria with the right appetizers will elevate your party to the next level. Here are three mouthwatering recipes from the blog that complement the fruity, citrusy notes of the sangria:

1. Jumbo Jalapeño Poppers

These spicy, cheesy bites are the perfect mix of heat and creaminess. The bold flavors of jalapeños stuffed with rich cheese and wrapped in crispy bacon are a fantastic contrast to the refreshing red wine sangria.

2. Potato Chip Chicken Bites

Crispy, savory, and satisfying, these chicken bites are coated in crushed potato chips for an extra crunch. Their salty flavor complements the sweetness of the sangria beautifully, making them an irresistible snack.

3. Hanky Pankies

These retro-inspired appetizers are loaded with savory sausage, melty cheese, and crispy bread. The richness of the hanky pankies pairs wonderfully with the fruity depth of the sangria, creating a balanced flavor experience.

These appetizers are easy to make and sure to keep your guests coming back for seconds (and thirds!) while they sip on sangria and enjoy the big game.

A Winning Combination for Your Party

If you’re hosting a co-ed Superbowl party, this Superbowl Sangria is a fantastic addition to your lineup.

It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to satisfy guests who prefer something other than beer. Pair it with a few snacks from the blog, stock up on wine and beer, and you’ve got everything you need for an instant party.

Happy Superbowl Sunday! Cheers!