Red Wine Apple Cider Sangria

This fall sangria made with apple cider, red wine and warm spices is the perfect autumn drink. It’s packed with flavor and is refreshing yet cozy.

No party is complete without a kickass cocktail. And this cider sangria, made with apple cider, Honeycrisp apples, and fall spices is sure to win everyone over.

I decided this Red Wine Apple Cider Sangria should be the first recipe featured in ZK’s Goodbye Garden Party menu. Why? Because every great party needs a great cocktail. And because it’s Friday. I wanted to set you up for a successful weekend. 🙂

What makes a sangria, well, a sangria?

The basic components of sangria are:

• Wine — sangria can be made with both red or white wine, although red is classic
• Fruit or fruit juices
• Sweetener (optional but common)
• Soda water (optional)
• Liqueurs such as brandy or cognac (this recipe uses an orange liqueur)
• Flavorings (optional but common)

Can sangria be made ahead? And how long does sangria last?

It sure can! Sangria benefits from sitting for awhile anyway. I recommend making it at least 30 minutes before serving or up to 1 day in advance. Just be sure to refrigerate it.

In general, sangria will last up to 3 days. It can technically last a bit longer, but after 3 days the flavors start to become very strong.

What kind of wine should I use for a sangria?

First off, when it comes to drinking wine in general, the most important thing is to use wine that you enjoy and would drink by itself. It’s similar to the rule of “don’t cook with wine you wouldn’t drink.”

When picking out red wine for sangria, look for wines that are fruit-forward and low in tannins. It’s best to use a delicious, but not too pricey bottle since you'll be adding other flavors to the wine.

And since Sangria is Spanish in origin, look for wines from that region such as Grenache and Tempranillo. Non-Spanish varieties that work well are Pinot Noir, Malbec or even Syrah which is often used as a blending grape in Spain.

Choosing a white wine for sangria is easier to do. The one thing to keep in mind—steer clear of oaky varieties like Chardonnay.

Other than that it’s all about preference and what kind of sangria you're planning to make. If you’re going for a citrusy, acidic sangria opt for a Vinho Verde or Sauvignon Blanc. Want something more fruity or tropical? Try a Voigner or Pinot Grigio.

Variations on this Apple Cider Sangria Recipe:

Use a combination of fruit: instead of just apples, use a combination or apples, pears and oranges.

Make it less boozy: instead of orange liqueur use some simple syrup instead. Want it even lighter? Finish each glass with a splash of club soda.

Make it more boozy: add a splash of vodka to the mix.

Up the elegance: add some pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and flavor.

Add some heat: in a boozy way with a splash of bourbon.

More fall sangria recipes you'll love...

• Autumn Sangria with Cranberries and Apples
• Sangria Slushy
• Apple Pear White Sangria
• Cranberry Sangria

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Don’t forget, if you make this Cider Sangria, leave a comment and rating below!

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This recipe was originally published November 2, 2018.