Winter Sangria Recipe

History of Sangria

Sangria has its roots in Spain and Portugal and has been a staple in Spanish cuisine since Roman times. The Romans planted vineyards around 200 B.C., and with their influence, Spaniards started to mix wine with water and herbs to create what was likely the earliest form of sangria. Fast forward to contemporary times, and sangria is enjoyed worldwide in multiple variations. The winter version brings warm spices and fruits that evoke the festive spirit of the holiday season.

What You’ll Need to Make the Recipe

Red Wine

Choose a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. These wines offer a robust flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients. The wine forms the base of your sangria, ensuring it has a rich, complex profile.

Brandy

Brandy adds an extra layer of warmth and depth to the sangria. It enhances the fruit flavors and provides a boozy kick that's perfect for a winter drink.

Orange Liqueur

A splash of orange liqueur like Triple Sec or Cointreau adds zesty citrus notes. It complements both the red wine and brandy while adding a bit of sweetness.

Sugar

You can use either honey or sugar to sweeten your winter sangria. This ingredient balances out the tartness of the wine and the citrus, providing just the right amount of sweetness.

Fruit

Apples, pomegranate seeds, and oranges are the fruits you'll need. They not only add flavor but also aesthetically enhance the drink by adding a seasonal touch. These fruits soak up the sangria flavors, making them delicious to eat too!

Spices

Cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cloves are the spices that will make your Winter Sangria aromatic and festive. These spices infuse the sangria with warm, holiday flavors, making it the perfect winter beverage.

Sparkling Water

While optional, a splash of sparkling water can be added just before serving to give a refreshing fizz to the sangria. It lightens up the drink and adds an element of surprise with each sip.

Why You’ll Love Winter Sangria

Winter Sangria has all the hallmarks of a great holiday drink - it's festive, flavorful, and easy to share with others. The combination of red wine, brandy, and orange liqueur provides a robust base that's beautifully complemented by the sweetness of the sugar and the tartness of the fruit. The aromatic spices give it that holiday charm, making each sip feel like a warm hug. It's a versatile drink that you can prepare ahead of time, making it perfect for holiday parties and gatherings.

Substitutions for Key Ingredients

Red Wine: If you prefer white wine, try a dry option like Chardonnay or Riesling. However, it will alter the traditional winter sangria taste.
Brandy: Rum or whiskey can be a good substitute if you don’t have brandy on hand.
Orange Liqueur: Triple Sec can be replaced with Grand Marnier or regular orange juice for a non-alcoholic version.
Sugar: Substitute with agave syrup or stevia for a healthier option.
Spices: While cinnamon, star anise, and cloves are traditional, you can experiment with nutmeg or cardamom for different flavor profiles.