As the leaves change colors and the air turns crisp, there’s no better way to celebrate the arrival of fall than with a cozy, seasonal sangria in hand. Fall sangrias are perfect for parties, Thanksgiving feasts, or simply relaxing by the fireplace. With the bounty of autumn fruits like apples, pears, and pomegranates, combined with spices like cinnamon and cloves, fall sangria recipes capture the essence of the season in every sip.
Below, we explore 10 of the most popular fall sangria recipes that are sure to add warmth and flavor to your autumn gatherings.
Apple Cider Sangria
If there’s one flavor that epitomizes fall, it’s apple cider. Apple Cider Sangria is a delightful combination of crisp apples, smooth white wine, and the spicy warmth of cinnamon. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a refreshing but seasonal drink. Combine apple cider with your favorite white wine, a splash of brandy, and a few cinnamon sticks. Add sliced apples, pears, and oranges to enhance the fruitiness.
Tip: Let it sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together for a truly autumnal experience.
Cranberry Pomegranate Sangria
Looking for a sangria with a deep, ruby-red hue? Cranberry Pomegranate Sangria is not only visually stunning but also rich in flavor. Made with red wine, fresh cranberries, pomegranate seeds, and orange slices, this recipe is perfect for cooler fall evenings. Add a dash of orange liqueur for extra zest and top it off with sparkling water or club soda to give it a little fizz.
Bonus: The antioxidants in pomegranates and cranberries make this sangria as healthy as it is delicious!
Spiced Pear Sangria
Pears are one of the most underrated fall fruits, and they make an excellent addition to a sangria. Spiced Pear Sangria incorporates the subtle sweetness of pears with warming spices like cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. White wine serves as the base, along with pear juice and a splash of brandy. Garnish with thin slices of pear and cinnamon sticks to create a drink that not only tastes like fall but smells like it too.
Best served chilled: This sangria tastes even better after sitting for a few hours, allowing the spices to fully infuse.
Pumpkin Spice Sangria
Nothing screams fall quite like pumpkin spice, and this Pumpkin Spice Sangria takes the beloved autumn flavor and transforms it into a crowd-pleasing beverage. Start with a bottle of white wine or rosé, and add pumpkin puree, apple cider, and pumpkin pie spice. This recipe is a fun twist on the classic sangria and is sure to be a hit at any fall gathering. To elevate the flavor, include fresh apple and orange slices.
Pro tip: Rim your glasses with cinnamon sugar for an extra festive touch.
Maple Bourbon Sangria
For those who love the rich, caramel-like flavor of bourbon, Maple Bourbon Sangria is a must-try. This unique recipe combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the boldness of bourbon and red wine. Add in apples, oranges, and cinnamon sticks to balance the deep flavors with fruity brightness. The result is a cocktail that’s smooth, spicy, and perfect for sipping around a bonfire.
Quick note: This sangria can be made a day ahead to intensify the flavors, making it a great option for fall parties.
Caramel Apple Sangria
If you’re a fan of caramel apples, you’ll love this sangria version. Caramel Apple Sangria blends white wine with caramel vodka, apple cider, and fresh apple slices. This sangria is like dessert in a glass, with its sweet, rich flavor profile. Add cinnamon sticks for a hint of spice, and serve it over ice for a refreshing take on a fall classic.
Pairing idea: Serve this sangria alongside a platter of cheese and crackers to balance out the sweetness.
Ginger Pear Sangria
Spice up your fall with a Ginger Pear Sangria. The warmth of ginger complements the delicate flavor of pear in this unique autumn sangria. Start with a bottle of crisp white wine, add fresh pear slices, a splash of ginger liqueur, and top with ginger ale for a little effervescence. The spiciness of the ginger pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pears, creating a well-balanced drink that feels sophisticated yet easy to make.
Pro tip: Garnish with fresh ginger slices for an added punch of flavor.
Blackberry Sage Sangria
For something a bit more earthy and herbal, Blackberry Sage Sangria is the way to go. The combination of fresh blackberries and sage leaves creates a beautifully aromatic sangria. Use red wine as the base and add in brandy, blackberries, and orange slices. The sage adds an unexpected layer of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the fruitiness of the wine.
Hint: Muddle the sage leaves before adding them to release their oils and maximize the flavor infusion.
Cinnamon Apple Sangria
Another apple-forward sangria, Cinnamon Apple Sangria embraces the iconic flavors of fall. This recipe calls for red wine, apple slices, and cinnamon sticks, creating a rich, fruity sangria with a spicy kick. For an added layer of sweetness, stir in some honey or maple syrup. It’s the perfect drink to enjoy while watching the leaves fall outside.
Make it extra cozy: Serve warm for a mulled wine-style sangria that will keep you toasty on chilly evenings.
Autumn Red Wine Sangria
For a classic take on fall sangria, this Autumn Red Wine Sangria blends red wine with an array of autumnal fruits like apples, pears, and oranges. Add in cinnamon sticks, cloves, and a splash of brandy for a deeply flavorful and warming drink. This sangria is incredibly versatile, allowing you to mix and match your favorite fall fruits and spices.
Serving suggestion: This sangria pairs well with hearty fall dishes like roast chicken, turkey, or a rich beef stew.
These 10 fall sangria recipes offer something for everyone, from the pumpkin spice lovers to those who prefer the deep, rich flavors of bourbon and maple. Sangria is a versatile drink that can easily be customized to your personal taste and the occasion, whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home. Embrace the flavors of fall with these delicious and refreshing sangrias!
FAQs
What is the best wine to use for fall sangria?
For fall sangria, a medium-bodied red like Merlot or a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio works best. They complement the seasonal fruits and spices used in fall sangria recipes.
Can I make fall sangria ahead of time?
Yes! Sangria actually tastes better if made ahead of time. Allowing the sangria to sit in the fridge for a few hours or overnight lets the flavors of the fruits and spices meld together.
What fruits are best for fall sangria?
Apples, pears, pomegranates, and cranberries are all excellent choices for fall sangria. These fruits are in season and add a natural sweetness and flavor to your drink.
Can you serve sangria warm?
Yes, you can serve sangria warm, especially in the fall or winter. It becomes a comforting alternative to mulled wine when heated with spices like cinnamon and cloves.
What alcohol can I add to my sangria?
Aside from wine, you can add spirits like brandy, bourbon, or flavored vodkas to enhance your sangria. Just be careful not to overpower the other ingredients!
How long does sangria last in the fridge?
Sangria can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to preserve its freshness.