Paul Kushner
The Pomegranate Vanilla Sangria is a festive twist on the classic sangria, filled with rich fruit flavors and warm seasonal spices. Red wine forms the base, bringing depth and body, while sparkling pomegranate soda adds sweetness and fizz that make the drink lively and refreshing. Fresh fruit slices bring color and natural flavor, while cinnamon sticks and vanilla add cozy warmth and a smooth finish. Garnished with pomegranate arils and vanilla beans, this sangria is as beautiful as it is delicious. With its jewel-toned color and layered flavors, it is the perfect choice for holiday parties or special celebrations.
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Tasting Notes
The Pomegranate Vanilla Sangria blends bold fruit, spice, and subtle sweetness into a festive, layered drink. Spanish red wine creates a smooth, rich base, while sparkling pomegranate soda brightens the flavor with tart effervescence. Brandy adds warmth and depth, balancing the crispness of apple, pear, and orange. Vanilla extract and split vanilla beans give the sangria a soft, aromatic sweetness that lingers pleasantly on the palate. Cinnamon sticks introduce gentle spice, tying the fruits and wine together. Garnished with extra fruit and spices, this sangria is refreshing yet full-bodied, making it ideal for both celebratory occasions and cozy evenings.
Equipment and Glassware
This Pomegranate Vanilla Sangria requires just a few simple tools. A large pitcher or glass jug is essential for holding the wine, fruit, and soda as they chill together. A long-handled spoon ensures the ingredients are evenly mixed, while a sharp knife and cutting board are necessary for slicing oranges and chopping apples and pears. Measuring cups or a jigger help keep the proportions precise, particularly with the brandy and vanilla extract. For serving, stemless wine glasses or tumblers highlight the vibrant color of the sangria and allow fruit pieces to be included easily in each glass.
Ingredients
- 1.5 bottles Spanish red wine
- 16 ounces sparkling pomegranate soda
- 4 ounces brandy
- 0.5 ounce vanilla extract
- Sugar adjust to taste
- 1 orange sliced
- 1 apple chopped
- 1 pear chopped
- pomegranate seeds
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 vanilla beans split and scraped
Instructions
- In a large pitcher, add the sliced orange, chopped apples, chopped pears, cinnamon sticks, and pomegranate arils.
- Pour in the Spanish red wine, sparkling pomegranate soda, brandy, sugar, and vanilla extract over the fruit. Scrape the vanilla beans out of their pods and add the seeds to the pitcher. Then, throw in the empty vanilla pods for extra flavor.
- Stir the mixture thoroughly with a large spoon to combine all the ingredients. Place the pitcher in the refrigerator and let it chill for about 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, taste the sangria and add more sugar if desired to adjust the sweetness.
- Spoon some of the fruit into glasses, add ice, and pour the sangria over the top. Garnish with additional fruit or cinnamon sticks if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the bold, fruity, and spiced flavors of the Pomegranate Vanilla Sangria!
Pro Tips
- Use Rioja or Garnacha as a base for authentic Spanish red wine flavor.
- Chill the sangria for at least an hour but no more than 24 for freshness.
- Adjust sweetness with sugar, honey, or agave depending on your preference.
- Scraping vanilla beans directly into the sangria ensures the deepest flavor.
- Freeze fruit pieces beforehand to keep the drink cold without dilution.
- Always top with sparkling soda just before serving to maintain fizz.
- For stronger spice notes, leave the cinnamon sticks in the pitcher while serving.
- Serve in wide glasses to showcase the fruit garnish.
When to Serve
Pomegranate Vanilla Sangria is a festive cocktail that fits beautifully into many occasions, from casual autumn gatherings to elegant holiday celebrations. The mix of red wine, seasonal fruit, and warm spices makes it a natural choice for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s, pairing well with everything from savory dishes to sweet desserts. Sparkling pomegranate soda keeps the drink light and refreshing, making it just as suitable for brunch or an afternoon get-together. With its deep color, fragrant vanilla, and vibrant garnishes, this sangria is as eye-catching as it is flavorful, bringing cheer and warmth to any table.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Spanish Red Wine: Campo Viejo Rioja, Torres Sangre de Toro, Marqués de Cáceres
- Brandy: Fundador, Torres 10, Cardenal Mendoza
Similar Cocktails
- Brandy-Pecan Flip
- Cranberry Apple Fizz
- Apple-Brandy Hot Toddies
- Applejack Rabbit Cocktail
- The Woodsman Cocktail
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1.5 bottles Spanish red wine
- 16 ounces sparkling pomegranate soda
- 4 ounces brandy
- 0.5 ounce vanilla extract
- Sugar adjust to taste
- 1 orange sliced
- 1 apple chopped
- 1 pear chopped
- pomegranate seeds
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 vanilla beans split and scraped
Instructions
- In a large pitcher, add the sliced orange, chopped apples, chopped pears, cinnamon sticks, and pomegranate arils.
- Pour in the Spanish red wine, sparkling pomegranate soda, brandy, sugar, and vanilla extract over the fruit. Scrape the vanilla beans out of their pods and add the seeds to the pitcher. Then, throw in the empty vanilla pods for extra flavor.
- Stir the mixture thoroughly with a large spoon to combine all the ingredients. Place the pitcher in the refrigerator and let it chill for about 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, taste the sangria and add more sugar if desired to adjust the sweetness.
- Spoon some of the fruit into glasses, add ice, and pour the sangria over the top. Garnish with additional fruit or cinnamon sticks if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the bold, fruity, and spiced flavors of the Pomegranate Vanilla Sangria!
Notes
Pro Tips
- For deeper flavor, let the sangria chill for several hours or overnight.
- Adjust the sweetness based on the type of wine and pomegranate soda you use.
- Garnish each glass with a cinnamon stick or extra pomegranate arils for a festive touch.
