fall sangria recipe
The Best fall sangria recipe

Autumn Spiced Sangria
A rich, aromatic fall sangria infused with cinnamon, cloves, and orange zest, perfect for cozy gatherings. Warm spices complement the sweet-tart balance of the wine and fruit.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 bottles (750ml each) dry red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
- 1 bottle (750ml) dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- 1 bottle (750ml) sparkling wine (optional, for fizz)
- 1 cup pitted cherries
- 1 cup sliced peaches
- 1 orange, sliced (peel included)
- 1 apple, diced (Granny Smith)
- 1 cup sliced strawberries
- 1 cup sliced plums
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3 whole cloves
- 1 star anise pod
- 1 orange peel (zest)
- 1 tbsp honey or simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
👨🍳Directions
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1
In a large pitcher, combine red wine, white wine, and sparkling wine (if using). Add sliced fruit (cherries, peaches, orange, apple, strawberries, and plums). Stir gently. -
2
In a small saucepan, heat honey or simple syrup with cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise, and orange zest over medium heat until honey dissolves (~2 mins). Remove from heat and let cool. -
3
Strain the spiced syrup through a fine-mesh strainer into the pitcher, discarding solids. Add vanilla extract and stir well. -
4
Chill the sangria in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or over ice.
🔧Equipment
- Large pitcher or glass mixing bowl
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Wooden spoon or stirrer
- Citrus peeler
- Knife and cutting board
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
- For a stronger spice kick, add 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon or extra cloves.
- Replace honey with maple syrup for a deeper fall flavor.
- Serve with a side of spiced nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans toasted with cinnamon) for extra crunch.
Watch Video Of How Autumn Spiced Sangria Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Autumn Spiced Sangria
1. What are the key ingredients I need to make a classic fall sangria recipe?
For a classic fall sangria, you’ll need:
– Red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Zinfandel)
– White wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
– Brandy or Cognac (for depth and sweetness)
– Fresh fruit (apples, pears, oranges, peaches, and berries like raspberries or blackberries)
– Sweetener (honey, sugar, or a simple syrup)
– Herbs and spices (rosemary, cinnamon sticks, orange peel, cloves, or star anise)
– Ice cubes (for serving)
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2. How do I balance sweetness and tartness in my fall sangria?
Balancing sweetness and tartness is key! Start with a sweetener (like half honey and half simple syrup) and adjust based on the fruit. If your sangria tastes too sweet, add a splash of tart wine (like a Pinot Grigio) or a squeeze of lemon. If it’s too tart, sweeten it further with more honey or fruit. Taste as you go—fall sangria should be rich but not overly sweet.
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3. Can I use dried fruit instead of fresh in my sangria recipe?
Yes! Dried fruit works wonderfully—just soak it in warm water for 10–15 minutes before adding it to the sangria. Popular dried options include:
– Dried apricots (for a caramelized sweetness)
– Dried figs (for depth)
– Dried cranberries (for tartness)
– Dried plums or prunes (for a deeper, wine-like flavor)
Always rinse dried fruit well to remove excess sugar before mixing.
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4. How long should I let the sangria steep before serving?
For best flavor, let your sangria steep for at least 2–4 hours (or overnight in the fridge for deeper infusion). If you’re in a hurry, at least 1–2 hours will work, but longer steeping enhances the herbs, fruit, and spices. Stir occasionally to ensure even distribution. Avoid keeping it past 24 hours unless you’re using a sealed container (like a wine bottle with a cork).
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5. What’s the best way to store fall sangria for later use?
To store sangria properly:
– Use a sealed container (like a wine bottle with a cork or a glass jar with a tight lid) to prevent oxidation.
– Refrigerate immediately after making it (within 2 hours of preparation).
– Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days—after that, the flavors may mellow or become too watery.
– Reheat gently if serving cold (stir in a little warm water or add a splash of wine to revive it).
– Avoid freezing, as it can alter the texture and flavors.
