Print

Spiced Cranberry Orange Red Wine Holiday Sangria

Close-up of a pitcher of deep red holiday sangria filled with fresh cranberries, orange slices, and cinnamon sticks.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this easy, make-ahead friendly red wine sangria featuring seasonal cranberry, orange, and warm spices. It is a crowd-pleasing festive sip perfect for Christmas or New Year gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (750 ml) bottle dry red wine (like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 1/2 cup brandy
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 3 whole star anise
  • 1 large orange, thinly sliced
  • 1 large apple, cored and chopped
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

Instructions

  1. In a large pitcher or punch bowl, combine the red wine, apple cider, brandy, and orange juice.
  2. Add the sugar, cinnamon sticks, and star anise to the liquid mixture. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Add the sliced orange, chopped apple, and cranberries to the pitcher. Gently stir to combine all the fruit and spices.
  4. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the fruit flavors to infuse the wine. This step is key for a make-ahead holiday drink.
  5. Before serving, remove the cinnamon sticks and star anise if desired, though leaving them in adds visual appeal.
  6. Serve the sangria over ice, ensuring each glass gets some of the soaked fruit.

Notes

  • For a bubbly finish, top each serving with a splash of club soda or sparkling wine just before serving.
  • If you prefer a sweeter drink, increase the sugar to 1/3 cup.
  • This recipe scales well for large Christmas party punch bowls.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://daisyrecipe.com/holiday-sangria-recipe-make-ahead-sip/