The Case Against Using Expensive Wine for Your Sangria: Here’s Why

Sangria is a popular drink enjoyed by a wide array of wine enthusiasts, but when it comes to choosing the right type of wine for this fruity beverage, many may wonder if they should splurge on a high-quality bottle. According to sommelier Joe Mele, the answer is a resounding no.

Mele, who is also a co-host of The Wine Pair Podcast, emphasizes that expensive wines are not necessary for creating an enjoyable sangria. He points out that using a high-quality wine in this cocktail is a waste. Since sangria combines wine with various fruits and sweeteners, the quality of the wine becomes less significant.

For those crafting sangria, Mele suggests sticking to affordable options. He recommends classic Spanish wines such as Rioja or Garnacha, which can often be found in the $10 to $15 range, like Campo Viejo Garnacha or Borsao Garnacha. These wines work marvelously in red sangria, which pairs well with hearty barbecue dishes.

If you prefer white sangria, Mele notes that wines like Vinho Verde or those made from Verdejo are good choices and easily attainable in a similar price range. The sweetness and fruity profiles added through the mix of ingredients in sangria overshadow any slight differences in underlying wine quality.

Ultimately, purchasing an expensive bottle of wine for sangria is unnecessary; the fun and flavor come from the blend of ingredients and the social experience, rather than an extravagant wine selection.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!