Although the refreshing treat known as sangria can be enjoyed all year long, it’s also honored with a libation lovers’ holiday. This year, keep in mind that Saturday, Dec. 20, is more than a day to shop for last-minute Christmas gifts — it’s also National Sangria Day.
Sometimes described as a wine punch, the sweet fruit-flavored concoction has age-old roots in Spain and Portugal. The origins of the holiday that salutes it are murky, but it’s far from the only drink with its own “national day.”
For example, it’s possible to raise a glass to National Lager Day, National Vodka Day, National Champagne Day and National Drink Wine Day. National Egg Nog Day is celebrated on Christmas Eve each year, when the creamy concoction is at the height of its seasonal popularity.
The perfect sangria recipe for the Dec. 20 festivities typically starts with a dry yet fruity Spanish wine — generally red, though mixologists can use white wine, rosé or a sparkling variety.
Sangria’s distinctive flavor owes much to the addition of fruit such as lemons, oranges, apples and limes. The fruit is sliced or chopped and allowed to steep in the wine, ideally overnight, to allow the essences to blend smoothly.
Other traditional ingredients include brandy for added richness. Some sangrias are sweetened with sugar or simple syrup, and some are finished with a hint of soda water or lemonade. No matter what the specific ingredients, the resulting blend is served over ice and enjoyed as a light, lush refresher.
According to local lore, wine-based punches such as sangria were introduced to Key West by long-ago sailors arriving on vessels from faraway ports. Today, the European-born libation is served to attendees at each of the Key West Cooking Show’s learn-and-dine sessions.
It’s an appropriate choice, as the culinary adventures showcase foods with a link to the island city’s multicultural past — and they take place at 291 Front St., just steps from the harbor that was the heart of 19th-century maritime commerce.
Signature sangria welcomes guests to the Key West Cooking Show’s one-hour daytime and two-hour evening experiences. The demonstration-style classes are offered Tuesday through Saturday, with varying menus and dishes for attending foodies to savor.
In addition, those who want to celebrate National Sangria Day (or sip the refreshing beverage any day) can do so at the adjacent Bar 1. The atmospheric spot is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to about 8:30 p.m. Monday.
Last Call
Drink of the month: Spanish wine. As well as sangria, a variety of Spanish wines can be found at Bar 1. Patrons can enjoy full-bodied reds, sparkling selections and other offerings from the regions of Aragon and Catalonia.
Helpful bar hack: When serving sangria, give it an extra touch of festivity while ensuring it doesn’t get watered down by melting ice. How? Simply freeze assorted pieces of fruit to use instead of ice cubes, adding color and flair while avoiding potential dilution.
Thirsty for more? Visit keywestcookingshow.com.
