Winter sangria is red wine steeped with apple, orange, cranberries, pomegranate and a cinnamon stick. It’s fruity, lightly spiced and looks beautiful in a pitcher.
Sangria is a host’s friend because it’s made for inexpensive wine. The fruit and spice do the work, so a budget bottle is exactly right, and one pitcher serves eight.
It has to be made ahead so the flavors can blend, which means one less thing to do when guests arrive.
What You’ll Need
- Red wine: A dry or semi-dry red. Spanish reds like Garnacha or Tempranillo are traditional, and Merlot works well. Don’t spend much.
- Brandy or orange liqueur: Adds warmth and depth. Leave it out for a lighter drink.
- Fruit: Apple, orange, cranberries and pomegranate seeds. Pear is a good addition.
- Spice: A cinnamon stick or star anise.
- Sweetener: Honey or simple syrup, to taste.
Tips for the Best Sangria
- Give it time. At least an hour in the fridge, and up to overnight, lets the fruit flavor the wine.
- Sweeten at the end. Taste after chilling. The fruit adds sweetness of its own.
- Add bubbles last. Top each glass with sparkling water just before serving.
- Use frozen cranberries. They help keep the pitcher cold without watering it down.
Winter Sangria
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pitcher or punch bowl, combine wine, brandy, honey (if using), and spices.
- Add sliced apple, orange, cranberries, and pomegranate seeds. Stir gently.
- Refrigerate for 1–2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
- Remove cinnamon stick or star anise before serving.
- Serve over ice and top with sparkling water or soda if desired.
Notes
- Use white wine or rosé for a lighter version.
- Add a splash of orange juice for extra sweetness.
- Garnish with fresh rosemary for a festive touch.
- Make a batch ahead and keep chilled until serving.
Alcohol-Free Version
Replace the wine with 3 cups of cranberry or pomegranate juice and the brandy with ½ cup of orange juice. Top with sparkling water. For other family-friendly holiday drinks, see Cranberry Spritzers.
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Make the sangria up to 24 hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge.
- It keeps for up to 2 days. After that, the fruit gets soft and the citrus peel can turn the wine bitter.
- Take out the cinnamon stick after a few hours so the spice doesn’t take over.
You might also like: Sparkling Apple Cider Punch and Cranberry Spritzers.
Sangria Questions
Can I use white wine?
Yes. A dry white or rosé makes a lighter sangria. Use pear and green apple with it.
Can I serve it warm?
Yes. Warm it gently on the stove without boiling, like mulled wine, and skip the ice and sparkling water.
