Sangria is an alcoholic beverage originating from Spain and Portugal, traditionally made as a punch consisting primarily of red wine and chopped fruit. It often includes other ingredients such as sugar, fruit juices, spices like cinnamon, and sometimes distilled spirits such as brandy or orange liqueurs like Triple Sec or Cointreau

. The name "sangria" means "bloodletting" in Spanish and Portuguese, referring to its deep red color from the wine

. It has historical roots dating back to the Middle Ages in the Kingdom of León, where a precursor drink called Leonese lemonade was made with wine, citrus, sugar, and spices

. Sangria as we know it has been enjoyed since at least the early 19th century. The drink is typically served cold or chilled, making it a popular refreshing choice especially in warm weather or at social gatherings

. While red wine is the classic base, variations can include white wine or sparkling wine like Cava, and sometimes cider in certain regions

. Sangria is widely enjoyed in Spain and Portugal, commonly served in bars, restaurants, and at festivals. It gained international popularity, notably introduced to the U.S. at the 1964 New York World's Fair, and is now enjoyed worldwide with many regional adaptations

. In summary, sangria is a fruity, wine-based punch from the Iberian Peninsula, combining wine, fresh fruit, sweeteners, and often a splash of spirits, celebrated for its refreshing and versatile character