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Festive Cranberry Orange & Spice Red Wine Holiday Sangria

A glass pitcher filled with deep red holiday sangria, floating cranberries, and bright orange slices.
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Make this easy, make-ahead holiday sangria featuring red wine, seasonal fruit, and warm spices. It is a crowd-pleasing winter wine punch 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
  • 2 star anise pods
  • 1 orange, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1 crisp apple, cored and chopped
  • 1 cup sparkling water or club soda (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a large pitcher or punch bowl, combine the red wine, apple cider, brandy, orange juice, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Add the cinnamon sticks, star anise pods, sliced orange, cranberries, and chopped apple to the pitcher.
  3. Stir all ingredients together gently to combine.
  4. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the fruit flavors to infuse the wine. This is key for make ahead holiday drinks.
  5. Before serving, remove the cinnamon sticks and star anise pods.
  6. If desired, top with sparkling water or club soda for a lighter, bubbly texture.
  7. Serve the holiday sangria over ice, making sure each glass gets some of the infused fruit.

Notes

  • For a different flavor profile, try a White Winter Sangria by substituting the red wine with Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
  • You can prepare the fruit and spice mixture one day ahead, then add the wine and spirits a few hours before serving.
  • Garnish each serving with a fresh orange slice or a few extra cranberries for a festive look.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cravybite.link/holiday-sangria-recipe-festive-cranberry-orange/