Red Wine Apple Cider Sangria

This red wine apple cider sangria feels like those early winter nights when friends wander in with scarves still on, and you want something easy that warms everyone up. It has a deep fruit flavor from the wine, gentle sweetness from the cider, and a mix of spices that make your kitchen smell like you have been cooking all afternoon.

I started making this when I needed a quick drink for a potluck and had almost no time to spare. People loved it, so it became my go-to for holiday gatherings. It works for quiet evenings too, especially when you want something comforting without much work.

It is a simple holiday cocktail that fits almost any winter event. The ingredients come together fast, and the flavor feels cozy, bright, and perfect for the season.

Why You’ll Love This

This sangria has a relaxed feel that makes it easy to serve when life gets busy, so you can enjoy your time instead of fussing over drink refills.

• Quick prep that takes only a few minutes, then chill.
• A sweet fruit flavor that suits those who prefer lighter cocktails.
• Warm spices make it perfect for cold nights or holiday parties.
• Easy to batch for large groups.
• A flexible recipe that lets you swap fruit or adjust the sweetness.

It is the kind of drink you mix once, then forget about while everything quietly comes together in the fridge.

Ingredients

This sangria is made with simple ingredients that come together to create something comforting. Fresh apples, warm spices, and a fruity wine make the base feel complete and satisfying.

• 1 bottle fruity red wine
• 12 oz apple cider
• 4 oz orange liqueur
• 2 honeycrisp apples sliced (plus more for garnish, optional)
• 4 cardamom pods crushed
• 4 whole cloves
• 2 cinnamon sticks plus more for garnish, optional
• 1 star anise plus more for garnish, optional

The wine lends body and color, while cider adds gentle sweetness without requiring added sugar. Honeycrisp apples retain their shape and absorb flavor. The spices slowly infuse the drink, making each sip feel like a festive occasion.

Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions

You don’t need expensive bottles for sangria, but choosing a wine with bright fruit notes helps the drink taste full-bodied after chilling with apples and spices.

• Choose a fruity red wine, such as Garnacha, for an easy, balanced base.
• Cointreau works well for the orange liqueur because it has a clean citrus flavor.
• Triple sec is a more budget-friendly swap.
• Fresh local apple cider gives the best flavor, but bottled cider works nicely too.
• Use Gala or Fuji apples if Honeycrisp are not available.

Small swaps do not alter the essence of this drink, so use what you already have and savor the process.

Equipment and Glassware

You only need simple tools for this sangria. A large pitcher helps everything chill evenly, and clear glasses let the fruit show through for a nice touch at the table.

• Pitcher
• Bar Spoon
• Jigger
• Rocks Glass

A sturdy pitcher works best because the spices and fruit need space to float and mix. Clear glasses make the drink look inviting, and the warm colors from the apples and spices create a cozy feel as soon as you pour the first round.

How to Make It

This recipe is easy and relaxed, making it great for when you want something simple that still feels thoughtful. Let the spices and apples rest in the cold wine for full flavor.

1. Add the red wine, apple cider, orange liqueur, sliced apples, crushed cardamom, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and star anise to a large pitcher.
2. Stir gently until everything is well mixed and the spices begin to release their aroma.
3. Cover and refrigerate the pitcher for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors settle.
4. When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice and pour the chilled sangria over the top.
5. Garnish with apple slices, a cinnamon stick, or a piece of star anise.

A short rest in the fridge deepens the flavor, allowing you to chill it longer if you prefer a stronger spice note.

Pro Tips

These tips help you get the best flavor from your sangria. Minor adjustments can make the drink feel smoother or brighter, depending on your taste.

• Slice apples thinly so they absorb more flavor.
• Crush the cardamom lightly to release more aroma.
• Taste the sangria after chilling and adjust the sweetness with a splash of cider.
• Keep extra fruit on the side for serving.
• Use large ice cubes to keep the drink cold without watering it down.
• Make a double batch if serving a crowd.
• Add oranges for a brighter note.

Try small changes until the sangria fits the mood you want for the night.

Variations

This drink is easy to adjust, allowing you to match it to different seasons or flavor styles. Changing the fruit or switching the liqueur subtly alters the feel without much effort.

• Add pear slices for a softer fruit flavor.
• Use white wine for a lighter version.
• Swap orange liqueur for spiced rum.
• Make a non-alcoholic batch with alcohol-complementary wine.
• Add cranberries for color and tartness.

Try one idea at a time and see what you enjoy most.

When to Serve and Pairings

This sangria is perfect for holiday dinners, casual game nights, or lazy afternoons when you want something light yet flavorful. The cozy spices pair well with most winter snacks.

• Sharp cheeses like cheddar or Gouda
• Apple pie or warm cobblers
• Roast chicken or turkey
• Soft pretzels with honey mustard
• Spiced nuts or simple charcuterie

It pairs well with comforting food, so it becomes a natural choice for winter gatherings.

Storage and Serving Notes

You can chill sangria in the fridge for a full day, and the flavor develops as it sits. Keep the fruit inside the pitcher so everything stays balanced and fresh.

FAQs

This section covers common questions so you can serve this drink with confidence and avoid guesswork in the kitchen.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it the night before, and the spices will deepen nicely overnight.

What wine works best?
Fruity wines taste best, especially Garnacha or a softer Merlot. Dry bold wines can overwhelm the cider.

Can I use bottled cider?
Yes, bottled cider works well if it tastes fresh and not overly sweet.

How do I keep it from getting too sweet?
Start with less cider and add more after chilling until you reach the sweetness you prefer.

Can I serve this warm?
You can gently heat it, but warm sangria can change the wine flavor, so keep the temperature low.

More Cocktails to Try

If you enjoy this easy holiday sangria, you might like a few other drinks with fruit notes and simple prep. They fit quiet nights and relaxed gatherings.

• Mulled Red Wine: warm spiced wine that feels great on cold evenings.
• Pear Bourbon Spritz: light fruit flavor with gentle spice, great for winter.
• Cranberry Orange Punch: a bright option for holiday parties with easy prep.
• Apple Cinnamon Old Fashioned: a cozy twist on a classic whiskey drink.