Go Back

Winter White Sangria

A vibrant and refreshing drink combining fresh winter fruits, spices, and sparkling wine, perfect for holiday gatherings and cozy nights in.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Cocktail, Drink
Cuisine: Festive, Spanish
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Fruits and Spices
  • 1 apple 1 apple (cored and sliced; a sweet variety like Honeycrisp will add a nice crunch)
  • 1 red Anjou pear 1 red Anjou pear (cored and sliced; ensure it’s firm yet ripe for the best flavor)
  • 4 Mandarin oranges 4 Mandarin oranges (peeled and segmented; these provide a zesty burst that’s unmissable)
  • 1/2 cup 1/2 cup fresh cranberries (perfectly tart, a great contrast to the sweetness)
  • 4 sticks 4 cinnamon sticks (for that warm, spicy aroma)
  • 6 pieces 6 star anise (adds a touch of elegance and depth)
  • 2 tablespoons 2 tbsp candied ginger (chopped; a sweet and spicy kick)
Liquids
  • 1 cup 1 cup orange liqueur (I recommend Cointreau or Grand Marnier for brightness) For a unique touch, try using spiced rum instead.
  • 26 ounces 26 oz dry sparkling white wine (one bottle; Prosecco or Cava both work beautifully) Choose something you enjoy drinking on its own.
  • 1/4 teaspoon 1/4 tsp salt (to balance the sweetness)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Begin by slicing the apple and pear, segmenting the mandarins, and washing the cranberries. Aim for a medley of colors that brightens your sangria.
  2. In a large glass jar or bowl, stir together all ingredients except the wine: apples, pear, mandarins, cranberries, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and candied ginger. Let this mixture sit for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better.
  3. Once infused properly, move your bowl to the fridge, allowing it to become chilly and delicious.
  4. Just before serving, prepare a pitcher or punch bowl with ice. Pour in the fruit mixture, then gently top it off with the chilled sparkling wine. Give it a gentle stir to incorporate without losing bubbles.
  5. Pour into glasses, allowing the lovely fruit to float for visual appeal!

Notes

Best enjoyed fresh, but any leftovers can be kept refrigerated for up to 2 days. Add fresh sparkling wine just before serving if it gets flat. If your sangria turns out too sweet, a dash of extra fresh citrus juice can help balance the flavor.