Name: Cozy Up with Sangria with Apple Cider, Red Wine & Bourbon
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 255 min
Ingredients: 1 bottle Dry Red Wine (Substitute with Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon); 1 cup Bourbon (Omit for non-alcoholic version); 4 cups Apple Cider (Can substitute with pear cider); 1 large Apple (Thinly Sliced) (Use firm varieties like Granny Smith); 1 large Orange (Thinly Sliced) (Consider blood orange for uniqueness); 2 sticks Cinnamon Sticks (Ground cinnamon can work too, use sparingly); 1 inch Fresh Ginger (Thinly Sliced) (Adjust amount based on heat preference); 3 sprigs Fresh Rosemary (Thyme can be substituted)

As I wrapped my scarf a bit tighter against the crisp autumn air, the idea of crafting a cozy cocktail started to dance in my mind. Enter the Fall Sangria with Apple Cider, Red Wine & Bourbon—a delightful autumn-inspired twist on a classic favorite. This refreshing yet warming drink captures the essence of fall in each sip, offering the perfect way to gather friends around the fireplace or spice up a festive dinner. Not only is this sangria easy to prepare, but it’s also incredibly versatile; enjoy it chilled over ice for a refreshing lift or warm it up for a comforting mulled wine experience that fills your home with irresistible aromas. Ready to dive into fall flavors and impress your guests? Let’s get started on this delicious concoction!

Why is this Fall Sangria Special?

Cozy, Seasonal Ingredients: Embrace the essence of autumn with the vibrant blend of apple cider, red wine, and bourbon. This drink wraps you in warmth and nostalgia.

Versatility at Its Best: Serve it iced for a refreshing twist or warm it up for a relaxing mulled experience.

Perfect for Gatherings: Bring friends and family together around the fireplace with this crowd-pleasing cocktail that’s bound to impress! It pairs well with festive appetizers, making it ideal for holiday parties.

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and just a bit of chilling time, this sangria is a go-to for any home cook. Plus, it can be prepped three days in advance, perfect for busy hosts!

Customizable Delight: Feel free to play with flavors! Try swapping bourbon for spiced rum for a fun twist, or use sparkling apple cider for added fizz. Whether you’re serving it at a cozy gathering or wanting to enjoy a quiet night in, this Sangria with Apple Cider, Red Wine & Bourbon will elevate your fall experience.

Sangria with Apple Cider Ingredients

For the Sangria

Dry Red Wine – Adds depth and richness. Substitute with Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon for similar flavors.
Bourbon – Provides warmth and a unique flavor profile. For a non-alcoholic option, omit bourbon and increase apple cider instead.
Apple Cider – Contributes sweetness and autumn flavor. You can substitute with pear cider for a refreshing change.
Apple (Thinly Sliced) – Adds fresh fruitiness; stick to firm varieties like Granny Smith for the best texture.
Orange (Thinly Sliced) – Offers citrus notes and aroma; consider using blood orange for a unique twist.
Cinnamon Sticks – Enhances warmth and spice; ground cinnamon can work too, but use it sparingly.
Fresh Ginger (Thinly Sliced) – Adds a zesty kick; feel free to adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
Fresh Rosemary Sprigs – Provides a fragrant herbal note; thyme can also be substituted for a different flavor.

Feel the festive spirit as you gather these ingredients for your Sangria with Apple Cider, Red Wine & Bourbon!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sangria with Apple Cider, Red Wine & Bourbon

Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a large jar or carafe, pour in the dry red wine and bourbon, followed by the apple cider. Add thinly sliced apples and oranges to infuse fruity flavors, then sprinkle in cinnamon sticks, ginger slices, and fresh rosemary sprigs. Stir gently to mix all the ingredients together, ensuring the spices are well distributed.

Step 2: Refrigerate
Cover the jar tightly with a lid or plastic wrap, then refrigerate the sangria mixture for at least 4 hours or overnight for optimal flavor development. As it chills, watch the colors blend beautifully, and the aromas of cinnamon and fruit will start to awaken, making your kitchen feel like autumn.

Step 3: Prepare to Serve
To serve your Sangria with Apple Cider, Red Wine & Bourbon, gather a suitable pitcher and your favorite ice-filled glasses. Remove the sangria from the fridge and give it a gentle stir to resettle the ingredients. You’ll notice the fruits and spices beautifully mingling, ready to be poured over ice.

Step 4: Garnish and Enjoy
When pouring the sangria into glasses, you can add additional fruit slices or even more cinnamon sticks for a decorative touch. For those who prefer a warm version, pour the sangria into a pot, avoiding the fruit to preserve its texture, and heat gently on medium-low until warm, about 10 minutes, without boiling.

Step 5: Serve Warm or Iced
Offer the chilled sangria over ice or serve it warm in mugs for a cozy gathering. Allow guests to enjoy the rich flavors while mingling, making this Fall Sangria with Apple Cider, Red Wine & Bourbon a delightful centerpiece to your autumn festivities.

What to Serve with Fall Sangria with Apple Cider, Red Wine & Bourbon

The delightful flavors of this autumn-inspired cocktail beckon a table filled with comforting dishes that warm the heart.

Savory Charcuterie Board: A mix of cheeses, cured meats, and seasonal fruits creates a beautiful balance of flavors, perfectly enhancing the sangria’s fruity notes. Add crusty bread and nuts for extra texture.
Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness and crispy texture provide a wonderful contrast, accentuating the sweetness of the apple cider in your sangria.
Warm Apple Crisp: This classic fall dessert, with its buttery oats and spiced apples, resonates with the apple flavors in the drink, wrapping up your meal on a cozy note.
Spiced Sweet Potato Wedges: With their natural sweetness and a hint of cinnamon, these wedges echo the warming spices of the sangria, creating harmony in every bite.
Herbed Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A melty grilled cheese with fresh herbs spreads warmth and comfort, making it an inviting companion to your fall sangria.
Pumpkin Soup: Serve as a starter to enhance your seasonal dining experience. Its creamy texture and hint of warmth elevate the comforting vibe of the meal.
Mulled Wine for Wine Lovers: Perfect for those seeking a boozy twist on the evening; it complements the sangria’s autumn spices for a delightful pairing.
Sparkling Water with a Twist: For a non-alcoholic option, a splash of flavored sparkling water refreshes the palate without overpowering the flavors of the sangria, keeping the evening light and enjoyable.

Make Ahead Options

These Sangria with Apple Cider, Red Wine & Bourbon are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can combine all the ingredients (except for ice and fruit garnishes) up to 3 days in advance for maximum flavor infusion. To maintain quality, simply cover your jar or carafe tightly and refrigerate the mixture overnight, allowing the spices and fruits to meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy, all that’s left is to pour the chilled sangria over ice or heat it gently in a pot (without the fruit) for about 10 minutes. With this simple make-ahead strategy, you’ll have a delightful cocktail ready to impress your guests with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Fall Sangria

Refrigerator: Keep your Fall Sangria with Apple Cider, Red Wine & Bourbon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.

Freezer: While freezing is not recommended due to the fruits and carbonation, you can freeze leftover sangria in ice cube trays. Once frozen, use the cubes in future drinks for flavor.

Reheating: If serving warm, gently reheat the sangria in a pot on the stove without boiling. Avoid heating the fruit to preserve its texture, and aim for a pleasant warmth, not scalding hot.

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare your sangria up to 3 days in advance, making it a hassle-free choice for gatherings!

Expert Tips for Sangria with Apple Cider

Chill Time: Allow your sangria to sit overnight. This lets the flavors meld for a richer taste experience that truly captures autumn.
Serving Warm: If opting for a warm drink, remember to heat gently and avoid boiling to maintain the fruit’s fresh texture.
Sweetness Balance: Customize the sweetness level according to your palate. A drizzle of maple syrup can add a delightful touch to your Sangria with Apple Cider, Red Wine & Bourbon.
Ingredient Quality: Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients. Firm apples and vibrant spices will elevate your sangria, ensuring each sip is full of life.
Fruit Variations: Feel free to experiment! Using late-season fruits like pears or figs can enhance the flavors and give your sangria a unique twist.

Sangria with Apple Cider Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and tailor this delightful sangria to your taste preferences!

Spiced Rum: Swap bourbon for spiced rum to introduce a sweet, warm flavor like a cozy autumn hug. This twist introduces notes of vanilla and nutmeg, enhancing the overall warmth.
Sparkling Version: Use sparkling apple cider for an effervescent touch in your chilled sangria. The bubbles add a fun texture, making this drink perfect for festive celebrations!
Lighter Option: For a refreshing twist, increase the amount of seltzer or sparkling water. This creates a lighter drink that’s still packed with flavor and perfect for warm fall days.
Herbal Infusion: Infuse the sangria with fresh mint alongside rosemary for a refreshing herbal note. The combination is aromatic and invigorating, perfect for a gathering on your patio.
Fruit Variations: Explore different fruits in your sangria! Substitute in pears, figs, or even cranberries for a deliciously unique flavor profile that resonates with fall.
Heat It Up: For those who love a little kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few slices of jalapeño for a spicy version that warms the palate. The heat pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cider.
Maple Sweetness: Instead of plain sugar, drizzle in some maple syrup for a rich, autumnal sweetness that perfectly complements the drink’s overall flavor.
Mulled Spice Mix: For a true fall sensation, consider steeping the ingredients with a mulling spice mix for an intensified experience. It’s like capturing autumn in a glass, allowing those cozy spices to envelop every sip.

As you experiment with these variations, remember that each addition will create a wholly unique experience to savor each time you pour a glass of your Sangria with Apple Cider, Red Wine & Bourbon. Enjoy crafting your perfect autumn drink! For more delightful recipes, don’t miss out on this Patio Peach Sangria or get inspired with my Crispy Rice Salad with Chili Crisp!

Fall Sangria with Apple Cider, Red Wine & Bourbon Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for my sangria?
Absolutely! When choosing your dry red wine, look for a bottle that you enjoy drinking on its own, such as a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. For the freshest apple cider, opt for locally sourced varieties if available; they typically offer a richer flavor. Firm apples like Granny Smith not only hold their texture but also balance the sweet cider nicely.

What’s the best way to store leftover sangria?
Very! Store your Fall Sangria with Apple Cider, Red Wine & Bourbon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for about 3 days. Make sure to cover it tightly to prevent the flavors and aromas from escaping. If you notice the fruit starting to look wilted or mushy, it’s a sign to toss it out.

Can I freeze sangria if I have leftovers?
Certainly! While I recommend against freezing the entire sangria since it can affect the texture and carbonation, you can freeze any leftover mixture in ice cube trays. After they’re frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. These sangria ice cubes can be a fun addition to future drinks! Just remember that blending the frozen cubes with a fresh beverage can help recreate that delightful sangria experience.

What should I do if my sangria is too sweet?
No worries! Adjusting the sweetness is easy. If you find your sangria to be on the sweeter side, you can balance it out by adding a splash of club soda or seltzer. This will lighten the sweetness and provide a refreshing fizz. Alternatively, a little lemon or lime juice can add a zesty kick that helps cut the sweetness.

Is this sangria safe for everyone to enjoy, including pets?
Very much so! The Fall Sangria with Apple Cider, Red Wine & Bourbon is suitable for vegan diets. However, keep in mind that it contains alcohol, which is not safe for pets. If you plan on making a non-alcoholic version, simply increase the apple cider and skip the bourbon for a pet-friendly treat! Always keep your little furry friends away from alcoholic beverages; it’s best for their health!

How far in advance can I prepare this sangria?
Absolutely! You can prepare your sangria up to 3 days in advance. Just remember to refrigerate it in a sealed container. Allowing it to chill overnight not only melds the flavors but ensures a delightful drink ready to impress your guests when it’s time to serve. Enjoy your gathering with this cozy beverage without the last-minute rush!