California Harvest Fall Sangria is a seasonal take on the classic Spanish punch, crafted with bold red wine, apple brandy, and sparkling grapefruit juice for a refreshing yet warming drink. The mix of Concord grapes, figs, apples, blackberries, and lime highlights autumn’s bounty while adding layers of sweetness, tartness, and texture. Chilling the sangria allows the fruit to infuse deeply, creating a rich, balanced flavor profile. Served over ice and garnished with fresh seasonal fruit, this sangria is both rustic and vibrant perfect for fall gatherings, cozy evenings, or holiday celebrations where wine and seasonal fruit take center stage.

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Tasting Notes

California Harvest Fall Sangria delivers a mix of bold fruit flavors balanced with sparkling refreshment. The red wine lays down a rich, full-bodied base, while apple brandy introduces warmth with hints of oak and orchard sweetness. Concord grapes and figs add lush, jammy notes, creating depth alongside the brightness of Honeycrisp apples and tart blackberries. Sparkling grapefruit juice adds effervescence and a subtle bitterness, preventing the drink from becoming overly sweet. Each sip highlights different layers of fruit, making the sangria both refreshing and complex. The garnish of fresh fruit enhances aroma and gives the glass seasonal appeal.

Equipment and Glassware

This California Harvest Fall Sangria is designed for gatherings, so the preparation calls for larger-scale equipment. A wide, sturdy pitcher is essential for combining and chilling the ingredients, with enough room to stir in both fruit and wine. A long wooden spoon or muddler helps gently press the fruit, releasing juices and enhancing the flavor. For serving, standard wine glasses are perfect, as they showcase the deep red color while allowing room for ice and fruit garnish. If preparing for an event, pre-chill the pitcher in the refrigerator to keep the sangria cold, and use tongs for neat fruit placement.

Ingredients

1 bottle California red wine
16 ounces sparkling grapefruit juice
4 ounces apple brandy
2 cups Concord grapes
1 cup fresh figs
1 cup Honeycrisp apple slices
1 cup blackberries
1 lime sliced into wheels
Grapes, apples, figs, lime, and blackberries for garnish

Instructions

In a large pitcher, combine the Concord grapes, figs, apple slices, lime wheels, blackberries, and red wine. Using a long wooden spoon, stir and gently press the fruit into the wine, breaking it up slightly with the back of the spoon.
Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Once the sangria is chilled, stir in the sparkling grapefruit juice and apple brandy.
Fill each wine glass with ice, pour the sangria, and top with the reserved fruit for a decorative and flavorful garnish.
Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, fruity flavors of this California Harvest Fall Sangria!

Pro Tips

Use a bold California red wine such as Zinfandel or Cabernet Sauvignon.
Chill for at least one hour, but overnight infusion deepens the flavor.
Cut fruit into uniform slices for even flavor distribution.
For a drier finish, reduce the syrupiness by adding extra sparkling grapefruit juice.
Keep fruit garnish fresh by adding it just before serving.
Large ice cubes work best, as they melt slower and prevent excess dilution.
Prepare in advance for parties, but always add sparkling juice last to maintain fizz.

When to Serve

California Harvest Fall Sangria is best enjoyed during autumn gatherings, when seasonal fruit is at its peak. It pairs perfectly with crisp evenings, harvest dinners, and festive occasions such as Thanksgiving or outdoor gatherings where a shared drink enhances the atmosphere. Its fruit-forward character makes it versatile enough to serve with a wide range of foods, from roasted meats to cheese platters. The balance of sweetness, tartness, and sparkling freshness also makes it appealing for daytime events like brunches or outdoor picnics. Whether casual or celebratory, this sangria offers a seasonal drink that feels both comforting and refreshing.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

California Red Wine: Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon, Ridge Zinfandel, or Bogle Merlot.
Apple Brandy: Laird’s Apple Brandy or Clear Creek Apple Brandy for authentic orchard character.
Sparkling Grapefruit Juice: San Pellegrino Pompelmo or Q Mixers Sparkling Grapefruit.
Fruit: Fresh Concord grapes, Honeycrisp apples, figs, and blackberries for the best autumn flavor.

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