Paul Kushner
The California Harvest Fall Sangria captures the essence of autumn in a glass vibrant, fruity, and full of seasonal charm. Red wine forms the lush base, while pear brandy adds warmth and depth. Fresh figs, pears, apples, grapes, and blackberries create layers of flavor and color, making each pour as beautiful as it is delicious. The finishing touch a splash of sparkling blood orange soda adds brightness and effervescence. Whether you’re hosting a harvest dinner, Friendsgiving, or a cozy night in, this sangria brings together the best flavors of fall in true California style: fresh, colorful, and effortlessly inviting. Inspired by holajalapeno.
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Tasting Notes
The California Harvest Fall Sangria is bursting with ripe, seasonal flavors that perfectly capture the feeling of autumn. The red wine creates a smooth, full-bodied base, while sparkling blood orange soda adds brightness and a touch of fizz. Pear brandy deepens the flavor with a subtle warmth that complements the fruit blend. Each sip brings layers of sweetness from figs, pears, and apples, balanced by the tart pop of blackberries and citrus from fresh orange slices. The combination feels cozy yet refreshing, making it ideal for cool afternoons or festive fall gatherings with friends.
Equipment and Glassware
Preparing this California Harvest Fall Sangria is simple, but presentation makes all the difference. You’ll need a large pitcher or punch bowl to mix and infuse the ingredients. A wooden spoon works best for lightly pressing the fruit, helping to release their juices without crushing them. Use a long-handled ladle for serving, ensuring each glass gets a colorful mix of fruit. Choose stemless wine glasses or short tumblers for a relaxed, rustic look. Keep ice on hand for serving, and if possible, pre-chill your pitcher so the sangria stays cold longer once poured.
Ingredients
- 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine
- 14 oz sparkling blood orange soda
- 5 oz pear brandy
- 1 ½ cups red seedless grapes
- 1 cup fresh figs, halved
- 1 cup sliced pear
- ½ cup Honeycrisp apple slices
- ½ cup blackberries
- 1 orange, sliced into wheels
- Extra fruit for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pitcher or punch bowl, combine the grapes, figs, pears, apples, oranges, blackberries, and the red wine.
- Gently press some of the fruit against the sides of the pitcher using a wooden spoon to release flavor.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 6 hours for a deeper infusion.
- Before serving, stir in the sparkling blood orange soda and pear brandy.
- Pour over ice and garnish each glass with a mix of the soaked fruit for a colorful fall presentation.
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.
Similar Cocktails
- Honeycrisp Apple Sangria
- Fall Sangria
- Red Wine Apple Cider Sangria
- Spiced Apple Sangria
- Campfire Mule
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 bottle 750 ml red wine
- 14 oz sparkling blood orange soda
- 5 oz pear brandy
- 1 ½ cups red seedless grapes
- 1 cup fresh figs halved
- 1 cup sliced pear
- ½ cup Honeycrisp apple slices
- ½ cup blackberries
- 1 orange sliced into wheels
- Extra fruit for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pitcher or punch bowl, combine the grapes, figs, pears, apples, oranges, blackberries, and the red wine.
- Gently press some of the fruit against the sides of the pitcher using a wooden spoon to release flavor.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 6 hours for a deeper infusion.
- Before serving, stir in the sparkling blood orange soda and pear brandy.
- Pour over ice and garnish each glass with a mix of the soaked fruit for a colorful fall presentation.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Choose a bold California red like Zinfandel or Cabernet Sauvignon for a rich base.
- Let the sangria chill longer (up to 24 hours) for deeper fruit infusion.
- Swap sparkling grapefruit juice with blood orange soda for a slightly sweeter variation.
