What Is Sangrita? Meet Tequila’s Other Half

01

A companion with its own character

Sangrita is a nonalcoholic accompaniment traditionally served beside tequila in a separate small glass. Its name translates as little blood, a reference to its color. Sangria, the wine-and-fruit drink, is something different.

The appeal of sangrita begins with the space between those two glasses. You can try the spirit by itself, then follow it with the fruit and spice of its companion. Nothing needs to be rushed or combined. For someone meeting the tradition for the first time, that change in pace can be the most interesting part.

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02

There is more than one recipe

Bartender Jeffrey Morgenthaler describes a fruit-forward version inspired by sour orange, pomegranate and chile, while also acknowledging tomato-based preparations. That variety matters: sangrita is a tradition with different expressions, not a single universal ingredient list.

A general description of sangrita should never be mistaken for the ingredients in a particular bottle. For CALIZ, use the product’s own label for ingredient and storage information. The brand belongs in this companion-drink tradition; it is not tequila.

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03

Set out the second glass

Difford’s Guide describes the classic pairing in two caballito glasses, with tequila followed by sangrita. Try the format as an invitation to notice flavor, rather than a rule about speed.

Your first pour

• Give the sangrita its own glass.
• Take a small sip of the tequila first, if you are serving alcohol.
• Follow with a small sip of sangrita and notice what changes.
• Keep water at the table and let everyone choose their own pace.

You can also enjoy CALIZ on its own. The pleasure of setting a thoughtful table does not depend on adding alcohol. Start simply, leave room for conversation, and let the second glass earn its place.

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