There’s just something about sangria in the summer. It conjures up images of a Spanish sunset, exotic but comforting with its delicious, refreshing flavours. Or it can make you think of 19-year-old college girls who just want to get tanked on a pitcher of fruity liquor. (Though, they likely aren’t drinking the good stuff, amirite girls?)
To save face, you’re going to want to enjoy a well-made sangria from the first category, lest you look like you belong to a sorority. Everyone has their own unique way of preparing sangria, so choosing your favourite sangria spot can take some research. Do you want a sangria made with brandy or 7-up as a sweetener? Can you handle a little tequila in your wine? Do you want something kept in pitchers, ready at a moment’s notice, or a sangria prepared a-la–minute?
Here’s where to find some of the tastiest, classiest sangria in town…
Playa Cabana
You actually got a table at Playa Cabana? Congratulations! Now it’s time for a tasty beverage. Playa’s sangria starts with muddled raspberries and limes, a splash of Havana Club white rum, lime and orange juices and simple syrup. At $7 per glass (or $29 for a pitcher) with your choice of red or white wine, it’s also some of the most affordably delicious sangria in town.
Patria
Patria’s mixologists were clearly sent from heaven, adding a spiced poached pear reduction, pear nectar, port and vermouth to their heavily spiced red wine sangria. The white sangria is just as seductive: Lillet, apple cider, poached apples and a lemongrass reduction. Buy the $30 jug, because a $13 glass doesn’t sound like nearly enough of these concoctions.
Carmen
Quality ingredients beget a quality sangria. At Carmen, their secret ingredient is fresh squeezed orange juice, in the classic blend of wine, sweet vermouth and soda water. By the glass only; $14 for 12 oz.
The Drake
Sipping on a glass of sangria on The Drake’s rooftop patio? That’s a recipe for the best summer ever. Especially since the bartenders add a kick of Tromba Tequila and grapefruit soda to their white sangria, and orange brandy and Angostura bitters to their red sangria. Best part, it’s only $10 per glass or $31 for the litre.
Embrujo Flamenco
Delicious, authentic Spanish food in Toronto is something to treasure. Hold it closely to your heart (and belly), and order the sangria. Embrujo Flamenco wasn’t willing to tell all their secrets, but the $30 pitcher includes apple juice, cinnamon and brandy with the classic wine and fresh seasonal fruit. Just $8.50 for a glass.
