Full of cozy autumn flavors, this festive Thanksgiving Sangria prepared with white wine, apple cider and brandy will be a hit at your next gathering… fall cocktails have never been easier (or tastier!).
This sangria is sweet, spicy and the ultimate make-ahead cocktail for your fall celebration – it’s perfect for Christmas, as well! You might want to consider making a double batch because it goes quickly.
Ingredient Notes
- White wine – use a dry, crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
- Apple cider
- Brandy
- Maple syrup – honey can also be used in place of maple syrup.
- Fresh fruit – sliced apple, orange and whole cranberries.
- Lemon juice
- Spices – cinnamon sticks, a clove-studded orange slice and star anise. Star anise aren’t necessarily required but make for a beautiful presentation! They are typically found on the spice aisle of your grocery store.
- Club soda – stir in just before serving.
- Fresh rosemary sprigs – optional garnish for serving.
How to Prepare
This festive Thanksgiving Sangria couldn’t be easier to make! Please see the recipe card for full detailed instructions.
- Place the cinnamon sticks, fruit and star anise in the bottom of a large pitcher.
- Pour in wine, apple cider, maple syrup, brandy and lemon juice.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours (preferably overnight to 24 hours).
- Stir in club soda just before serving.
Cheers… and enjoy!
More Festive Holiday Cocktails
Thanksgiving Sangria
Ingredients
- 8 to 10 whole cloves
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 3 to 4 whole star anise
- 1 small orange sliced
- 1 small Honeycrisp apple cored and sliced
- ½ cup fresh cranberries
- 1 (750 ml) bottle Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
- 1 cup apple cider
- ¼ cup real maple syrup or honey
- ½ cup brandy
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cups club soda chilled
- 8 sprigs fresh rosemary optional garnish
Instructions
- Stud one of the orange slices with the whole cloves.
- Place the cinnamon sticks, star anise and fruit in the bottom of a large pitcher.
- Pour in wine, apple cider, maple syrup, brandy and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight to 24 hours).
- Stir in club soda just before serving. Garnish glasses with fresh rosemary sprigs when serving, if desired.
Nutrition
If provided, nutritional info is a courtesy, is not guaranteed and should only be considered as a guideline.
Originally published November 2017. Updated with new next, new images and recipe slightly revised November 2021.
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