This Christmas Sangria is simple to make and fizzy with your choice of club soda or tonic water and sweet from the natural fruit juices that are muddled and swim in the wine overnight. This recipeis the perfect cocktail for the Christmas holiday!
What makes this Sangria the best Christmas Cocktail? Here are my simple reasons it’s a winner. It can “and should” be made ahead of time. It makes a big batch so you don’t have to worry about mixing individual drinks for people. It’s festive!
Cranberries, oranges, apples, pears and some rosemary springs make this a winter sangria that will get you and your guests in the holiday spirit and it will make your wine stretch further.
Sangria is traditionally made with red wine and fruit. For this Christmas Sangria, I’m using my lazy girl way with premade sangria in place of traditional red wine, muddled cranberries, orange, pear and apple slices, whole cranberries and rosemary sprigs. I used premade sangria because when in a rush it’s gives an extra punch to the Sangria and I prefer it, but most red wine would work as well. Sugar is often added to sangria. I didn’t think it was necessary but if you prefer a sweeter drink you can add sugar or simple syrup. And in my video I didn’t use a orange liqueur or brandy because I was making a lighter version but if you need a extra punch, please feel free to add on. Muddle the cranberries which means to press the ingredients against the side of the glass with a muddler. Muddling helps release the flavors of the fresh fruit. However, do not over-muddle the cranberries or you will have a tart and cloudy sangria.
For a red sangria, a dry, fruity red wine is best. Keep it traditional by using a Spanish Grenache or Tempranillo, or you can go with a Zinfandel. For a white sangria, I like to use a light, fruity Pinto Grigio, or a Spanish Albarino. Honestly, any wine really works with Sangria.
Sangria is super easy to make. The most important part is the resting period. Mix together the wine, alcohol, juice, and the fruit. Allow to chill in the fridge for at least four hours, or even better, overnight. Add ice and additional garnishes just before serving.
This Christmas Sangria is an easy, better-for-you cocktail that is perfect to serve a crowd this Holiday season! Fizzy, festive and tasty! Or any time of year really and no holiday party is complete without a festive drink, and this wintry sangria is just what your guests need to stay holly and jolly.
Cheers to a Very Merry Christmas!
Christmas Sangria
8 – 10
servings5
minutes198
kcalIngredients
6 ounces cranberries, rinsed
1 orange, sliced
1 apple, cored and cut into wedges
1 pear, cored and cut into thin wedges
2 bottles red wine
1 little club soda or tonic water, chilled
1 ounces brandy or cointreau (if desired)
Directions
- Muddle the cranberries in a large pitcher. Use the back of a spoon to crush and smash them against the sides of the pitcher.
- Add the orange, apple and pear slices and muddle.
- Pour in the wine and stir. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Before serving, stir in tonic water or club soda. Serve cold
- Add brandy or contreau (if needed)
