Not Your Abuela’s Sangria
A cocktail driven take on the well-known Spanish punch – bursting with flavors and refreshing wine-based goodness.
SUGGESTED GLASSWARE
Rocks Glass
Recipe
- Red Wine45 ml
- Brandy22 ml
- Pineapple Juice22 ml
- Cinnamon Syrup15-22 ml
- Lemon Juice15 ml
- Coca Cola15 ml
- Angostura Aromatic Bitters3 dash
- Mint Sprigs1 sprig
- Lime1 wheel
Instructions
Equipment
Description
Not Your Abuela’s Sangria is a cocktail-style reinterpretation of the timeless Spanish classic. Instead of the familiar pitcher poured over ice, this version is designed as a single-serve drink — concentrated, bright, and layered with complexity.
Red wine and brandy form the backbone, carrying richness and warmth, while pineapple juice and lemon juice bring freshness and lift. A touch of cinnamon syrup adds spice and depth, balanced by the gentle fizz of Coca-Cola. Three dashes of Angostura bitters sharpen the profile, while mint and lime garnish the drink with vibrant aroma and visual appeal.
The result is something both familiar and unexpected: refreshing, structured, and versatile — equally at home as a summer aperitif, a dinner party conversation piece, or a late-night cocktail. It honors the tradition of sangria, but elevates it into a bartender’s serve that’s ready for modern palates.
Originally crafted by Amanda “Bad Birdy” (Kuduowl in CA) under the simple name Sangria, this reimagined version carries the playful title Not Your Abuela’s Sangria here at Cocktails Compass, as a nod to its bold, contemporary twist on a beloved classic.
Nutritional information
1 cocktail (280ml)Tips & Notes
Use an affordable, fruity dry Spanish red wine - expensive bottles are unnecessary as the other ingredients will dominate the flavor profile.
Can I use white wine instead of red wine for this sangria?
Yes, you can substitute dry white wine to create a white sangria. The flavor profile will be lighter and more citrus-forward, and you may want to add different fruits like peaches or pears that complement white wine better.
Can I make sangria without brandy?
While brandy adds traditional depth and warmth to sangria, you can omit it if necessary. Consider increasing the orange liqueur slightly or adding a splash of fruit juice to maintain the flavor balance and complexity.
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