Description
Winter Sangria is a festive, aromatic, and comforting drink perfect for chilly winter evenings. Bursting with seasonal fruits like oranges, apples, and cranberries, and infused with warming spices such as cinnamon and star anise, this sangria is both elegant and easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night by the fire, this drink brings the holiday spirit to any occasion. Its ruby-red hue, fragrant aroma, and balanced flavors make it a standout at any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 bottle (750ml) red wine, medium-bodied
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 apple, cubed
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 2–3 cinnamon sticks
- 2–3 whole cloves
- 1 star anise pod
- 1–2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup, to taste
- Optional: 1–2 tablespoons brandy or orange liqueur
- Optional garnish: pomegranate seeds, citrus slices
Instructions
- Pour the red wine into a large pitcher or punch bowl.
- Slice the orange and cube the apple, then add them along with the cranberries to the wine.
- Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise. Stir gently to combine.
- Sweeten with honey or maple syrup, adjusting to taste.
- Optional: stir in brandy or orange liqueur for depth.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Before serving, stir gently, pour into glasses, and garnish with extra fruit or a cinnamon stick if desired.
Notes
- Use medium-bodied wine for a balanced flavor.
- Let the sangria chill overnight for best results.
- Frozen fruit can substitute fresh fruit and serve as natural ice.
- Adjust sweetness carefully—wine adds natural sweetness.
- Serve slightly chilled, not ice-cold, for the best aroma and taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American/European-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6–8
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg