Name: Cozy Up with Sangria: Apple Cider, Red Wine & Bourbon Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 255 min
Ingredients: 1 bottle Dry Red Wine (A good quality wine provides depth); 1/2 cup Bourbon (Adds warmth and enhances flavor); 3 cups Apple Cider (Offers a sweet and autumnal flavor); 1 medium Apple, thinly sliced (Fresh and adds texture); 1 medium Orange, thinly sliced (Brightens the drink with citrus notes); 2 pieces Cinnamon Sticks (Infuse warm spice notes); 1 piece Fresh Ginger, thinly sliced (2-inch knob) (Optional but adds zing); 2 sprigs Fresh Rosemary (Elevates the aroma)

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The air is crisp, leaves are turning, and there’s a subtle hint of spice that beckons cozy gatherings. This Easy Fall Sangria with Apple Cider, Red Wine & Bourbon perfectly captures that autumn essence, blending rich flavors of dry red wine with the sweetness of apple cider and a warming splash of bourbon. Whether you prefer it iced for a refreshing sip on a sunny afternoon or hot as a cozy mulled beverage, this simple fall cocktail is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Not only is it incredibly easy to whip up, but its versatility makes it ideal for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations. So, are you ready to toast to the flavors of fall?

Why Is Fall Sangria So Irresistible?

Cozy Fall Flavors: This sangria perfectly captures the essence of autumn with its delightful blend of apple cider, red wine, and warm spices.

Two Serving Styles: Enjoy it hot or iced, making it a versatile drink for both sunny afternoons and chilly evenings.

Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a show-stopping cocktail that impresses guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Perfect for Gatherings: This crowd-pleasing drink pairs beautifully with cheese platters or spiced nuts, making it an ideal choice for festive celebrations.

Customizable Options: Feel free to swap in seasonal fruits or different spirits, such as brandy, for a unique twist; your taste buds will thank you!

Ready to dive into more delightful flavors? Check out our Balsamic Steak Corn salad or our refreshing Feta Cranberry Rigatoni for more seasonal inspiration!

Sangria with Apple Cider Ingredients

Get ready to mix up a delightful fall cocktail with these essential ingredients!

For the Sangria Base

Dry Red Wine – A good quality wine provides depth; choose one you enjoy for sipping!
Bourbon – Adds warmth and enhances that cozy fall vibe.
Apple Cider – Offers a sweet and autumnal flavor; white grape juice can be a lighter alternative.

For the Fruit Medley

Apple, thinly sliced – Fresh and adds texture; swap in pears for a twist!
Orange, thinly sliced – Brightens the drink with citrus notes; lemon slices work too.

For the Spice Blend

Cinnamon Sticks – Infuse warm spice notes; feel free to use ½ tsp of ground cinnamon if needed.
Fresh Ginger, thinly sliced (2-inch knob) – Optional but adds a delightful zing to the mix.

For the Garnish

Fresh Rosemary Sprigs – A fragrant touch that elevates the aroma; use mint if you prefer a different herb.

Indulging in this sangria with apple cider, red wine & bourbon will certainly elevate your autumn gatherings!

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

Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a large jar or carafe, pour in a bottle of dry red wine, followed by a liberal splash of bourbon and chilled apple cider. Add thinly sliced apples and oranges for a fresh fruity touch, along with cinnamon sticks and fresh ginger for a hint of spice. Stir gently to blend all the flavors, making sure everything is well incorporated.

Step 2: Chill the Mixture
Cover the jar or carafe with a lid or plastic wrap, then refrigerate the sangria for at least 4 hours or, ideally, overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, transforming your sangria with apple cider, red wine, and bourbon into a harmonious concoction. The longer it sits, the richer the taste!

Step 3: Prepare to Serve
When ready to enjoy your sangria, remove it from the refrigerator. To serve chilled, fill a glass with ice and pour the sangria over the top, ensuring each glass gets a good mix of the fruits and spices. Alternatively, for a warm serving, proceed to the next step.

Step 4: Heat for Mulled Option
For the mulled version, pour your sangria mixture into a large saucepan over low to medium heat. Gently warm it for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and heated through, but do not allow it to boil. This method enhances the comforting aromas of the spices, making it the perfect warm cocktail for chilly evenings.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once your sangria is chilled or heated, serve immediately in glasses. For an added touch, garnish each with a sprig of fresh rosemary or mint to elevate the aroma and aesthetics. Enjoy sipping on this cozy sangria with apple cider, red wine, and bourbon, perfect for fall gatherings!

Sangria with Apple Cider Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your fall sangria to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Brandy Swap: Replace bourbon with brandy for a smoother, slightly sweeter flavor profile that complements the apple cider beautifully.
Fruity Twist: Use seasonal fruits like pears, pomegranates, or even seasonal berries in place of apples and oranges for a colorful surprise!
Citrus Variation: Swap orange slices for lemon or grapefruit for a refreshing citrus twist that brightens the drink.
Spiced Up: Add a dash of nutmeg or cloves along with the cinnamon sticks for an extra layer of warmth and spice.
Heat Level: For a little kick, include a few slices of fresh jalapeño or a splash of spicy ginger beer for a delightful zing.
Herbaceous Hint: Switch the rosemary for fresh mint or basil to introduce a different herbal note for your sangria.
Fizz Factor: Top your iced sangria with club soda or ginger ale just before serving for a bubbly finish that adds a lively touch.
Cider Variation: For a lighter version, replace traditional apple cider with sparkling apple cider, making it a bubbly delight for gatherings.

Don’t forget to pair this delightful drink with a cheese platter or a charming fall salad like our Burrata Salad Pine for an unforgettable autumn experience!

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Sangria with Apple Cider, Red Wine & Bourbon are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can combine the wine, bourbon, apple cider, sliced fruits, and spices up to 3 days in advance for optimal flavor melding. Simply cover the jar or carafe and refrigerate it overnight, which is essential for the ingredients to infuse beautifully. To maintain freshness and prevent the fruit from becoming mushy, keep the sliced fruit separate until just before serving. When ready to enjoy, pour the sangria over ice for a refreshing drink or gently heat it on the stove for a cozy mulled option, ensuring you impress your guests with minimal effort!

Storage Tips for Sangria with Apple Cider, Red Wine & Bourbon

Fridge: Keep your sangria tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for the best flavor retention.

Freezer: For long-term storage, consider freezing the fruit slices in ice cube trays. Use within 1-2 months; thaw before adding back to your sangria.

Reheating: If you prefer the mulled version, gently reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warm. Avoid boiling to preserve the alcohol.

Serving Leftovers: If your iced sangria has lost its sparkle, feel free to top it off with a splash of seltzer before serving to regain that refreshing fizz!

Tips for the Best Fall Sangria

Flavor Infusion: Refrigerate overnight: Allowing the sangria to chill overnight is crucial for letting the flavors meld and develop fully.
Fruit Choices: Get creative: Feel free to experiment with seasonal fruits like pears or pomegranates. They add freshness and unique flavors to your sangria with apple cider, red wine, and bourbon.
Serving Temperature: Serve chilled or warm: Whether you choose iced or mulled, remember to serve promptly after preparation to enjoy peak flavor and aroma.
Garnish Wisely: Enhance aromas: Use fresh rosemary or mint as a garnish to elevate the scent and presentation of your sangria.
Alcohol Management: Heat gently: If making the mulled version, warm slowly over low heat. Avoid boiling to keep the alcohol intact and flavors balanced.

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

Picture a gathering filled with laughter and warmth, where the comforting taste of autumn lingers in the air and every sip is a delightful celebration.

Cheese Platter: A selection of aged cheeses pairs beautifully, balancing the sweetness of the sangria with savory flavors. Try sharp cheddar or creamy brie for a delightful contrast.
Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with warm spices add a crunchy, salty element that complements the cocktail’s fruity notes perfectly. They also provide a satisfying crunch between sips!
Pumpkin Soup: A velvety pumpkin soup brings vibrant autumn flavors, enhancing the cozy feeling of your gathering. Serve it warm to keep your guests toasty and happy.
Apple Crisp: This sweet, cinnamon-laced dessert resonates with the apple notes in the sangria, creating a harmonious end to the meal. Top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence!
Charcuterie Board: Include cured meats, olives, and fruit for a savory-sweet balance that invites conversation. The variety of textures and flavors will keep your guests returning for more!
Cranberry Fizz: A sparkling cranberry mocktail or cocktail featuring fresh cranberries and a splash of soda adds a festive touch while enhancing the sangria’s seasonal notes.

Enjoy these delightful pairings alongside your Easy Fall Sangria for a feast that embodies the spirit of autumn!

Sangria with Apple Cider, Red Wine & Bourbon Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right dry red wine?
Absolutely! For a delightful sangria with apple cider, red wine, and bourbon, I recommend selecting a dry red wine that you genuinely enjoy drinking. Popular options include Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, as they offer a rich depth without being overly sweet. Remember, quality matters, so don’t choose a wine just for cooking!

How should I store leftover sangria?
Very simply! Keep your sangria tightly covered in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days; however, I recommend enjoying it within the first 24 hours for the best flavor retention. Use a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid to avoid any unwanted aromas from mingling in your fridge.

Can I freeze leftover sangria?
Definitely! While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the fruit slices in ice cube trays for long-term storage. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag and use within 1-2 months. To thaw, leave them at room temperature or add them directly to new batches of sangria. It’s a fun way to add chilled flavor when needed!

What’s the best way to reheat mulled sangria?
I often suggest a gentle approach! To reheat your mulled sangria, pour it into a saucepan and warm it over low heat for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to help it heat evenly. Avoid boiling, as this can evaporate the alcohol and alter the flavors. You want the rich aroma of spices to fill your kitchen without losing any precious components!

What dietary considerations should I keep in mind?
Very important! This sangria with apple cider, red wine, and bourbon is vegan-friendly, making it perfect for various dietary preferences. However, if you’re serving guests or have pets, remember that alcohol should always be kept away from them. If someone has a fruit allergy, consider substituting with safe alternatives that suit their taste. Your gathering can still be delicious and inclusive!

Can I customize the fruit in my sangria?
Absolutely! Embrace creativity in the kitchen! Feel free to swap in seasonal fruits like pears or pomegranates to give your sangria a unique twist. If you’re in the mood for something different, you can also add fruits like cranberries or even a splash of apple brandy. The more, the merrier when it comes to making it your own!