Autumn is here, and that means it’s time to start thinking about cozy nights by the fireplace, pumpkin-spiced everything, and of course, delicious fall cocktails. But what if you’re looking for something a little more sophisticated than a pumpkin spice latte? Enter: sangria! This classic Spanish drink is easy to make, perfect for sharing, and can be easily adapted to seasonal flavors. Today, we’re going to explore how to make autumn sangria, a refreshing and delicious drink that will impress your guests and warm you from the inside out.
3 Easy Ways to Make Delicious Autumn Sangria
Fall is in the air, which means it’s time to start thinking about cozy evenings by the fire with a warm drink in hand. But before you reach for the pumpkin spice latte, consider a delicious and refreshing alternative: autumn sangria.
This flavorful concoction blends the sweetness of fruit with the boldness of wine, creating a perfect balance of flavors that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a tasty treat to enjoy on a chilly evening, learning how to make autumn sangria is a simple yet rewarding skill.
Before: Start with a Great Base
The foundation of any good sangria is the wine. You can use either red or white wine for autumn sangria, but a dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot will provide the best base for the warm spices we’ll be adding.
Once you’ve chosen your wine, you’ll need to chill it. This will ensure your sangria is refreshingly cold when it’s time to serve.
After: Fruits of Autumn
The fruit is the star of the show when it comes to how to make autumn sangria. Embrace the flavors of the season by using seasonal fruits like apples, pears, pomegranates, and cranberries. These fruits not only add stunning color but also release their unique sweetness and tartness into the sangria.
For extra flavor, consider using a mix of fruits. Try combining crisp apples with juicy pears or adding tart cranberries for a burst of acidity.
Bridge: Spice It Up!
Now it’s time to add the magic touch – the spices! These cozy ingredients will elevate your sangria to new heights of deliciousness.
Here are some of our favorite spice combinations:
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Classic: Cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise offer a warm and comforting aroma.
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Spiced Citrus: Orange peels, cardamom pods, and ginger root provide a zesty kick.
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Apple Pie: Cinnamon sticks, nutmeg, and a splash of vanilla extract create a comforting, autumnal flavor.
Before: Method 1: The Classic
This is the easiest and most common way how to make autumn sangria. Simply combine all the ingredients in a large pitcher and let it sit in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight.
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle of dry red wine
- 1 cup of brandy or orange liqueur (optional)
- 1 cup of fresh orange juice
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1 apple, sliced
- 1 pear, sliced
- 1/2 cup of cranberries
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 cloves
Instructions:
- In a large pitcher, combine the wine, brandy (if using), orange juice, and sugar.
- Add the sliced apples, pears, cranberries, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
- Stir well and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
- Before serving, add a splash of soda water or club soda for a bubbly topping.
After: Method 2: The Spiced Citrus
For a more citrusy twist on how to make autumn sangria, try this recipe. The combination of orange and cardamom will create a truly unique and flavorful drink.
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle of dry white wine
- 1/2 cup of vodka (optional)
- 1 cup of fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup of simple syrup
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 pear, sliced
- 1/2 cup of cranberries
- 4 cardamom pods
- 1 inch of ginger root, grated
Instructions:
- In a large pitcher, combine the wine, vodka (if using), orange juice, and simple syrup.
- Add the sliced orange, pears, cranberries, cardamom pods, and grated ginger root.
- Stir well and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
- Before serving, add a splash of sparkling water for a bubbly topping.
Bridge: Method 3: The Apple Pie
This recipe is perfect for those who love the warm and comforting flavors of apple pie. The infusion of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla will transport you to a cozy autumn day.
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle of dry red wine
- 1/2 cup of brandy (optional)
- 1 cup of apple cider
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 2 apples, sliced
- 1/2 cup of cranberries
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a large pitcher, combine the wine, brandy (if using), apple cider, and brown sugar.
- Add the sliced apples, cranberries, cinnamon sticks, nutmeg, and vanilla extract.
- Stir well and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
- Before serving, garnish with a cinnamon stick and a slice of apple.
After: Sangria Tips and Tricks
Now that you know how to make autumn sangria, here are a few tips for making it even better:
- Use fresh fruit: Fresh fruit will give your sangria a vibrant flavor and texture.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: Feel free to add your own favorite spices or fruits to create your own unique sangria blend.
- Let it sit: The longer the sangria sits in the fridge, the more flavorful it will become.
- Serve it chilled: Sangria is best served chilled, so make sure to keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
- Garnish with style: A sprig of rosemary, a cinnamon stick, or a slice of orange will add a touch of elegance to your sangria.
Conclusion: Cheers to Autumn!
With these simple recipes and tips, making delicious autumn sangria is as easy as falling leaves. Whether you prefer a classic, citrusy, or apple pie twist, you’re sure to delight yourself and your guests with this refreshing and flavorful drink. So grab your favorite glasses, settle in by the fire, and enjoy the cozy flavors of autumn with a delicious glass of sangria. Cheers!
