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Spiced Pomegranate & Cranberry Holiday Red Wine Sangria

A glass filled with dark red holiday sangria, topped with floating fresh cranberries and a slice of citrus.
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Make this festive holiday sangria featuring red wine, seasonal fruit, and warm spices. It is easy to prepare in advance for your Christmas or New Year’s gathering.

Ingredients

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  • 1 (750 ml) bottle dry red wine (like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
  • 1 cup brandy
  • 1/2 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 whole star anise
  • 1 orange, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1 cup pomegranate seeds (arils)
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 1 cup sparkling water or club soda (added just before serving)

Instructions

  1. In a large pitcher or punch bowl, combine the red wine, brandy, orange juice, sugar, cinnamon stick, and star anise. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Add the sliced orange, cranberries, and pomegranate seeds to the wine mixture.
  3. Pour in the apple cider. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
  4. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to infuse. This make-ahead step is important for the best taste.
  5. Before serving, remove the cinnamon stick and star anise if desired. Top the sangria with the chilled sparkling water or club soda.
  6. Serve the holiday sangria over ice, making sure each glass gets some of the fruit.

Notes

  • For a white wine holiday sangria variation, substitute the red wine with a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio and use white rum instead of brandy.
  • If you want a non-alcoholic option for children or guests, use grape juice instead of wine and brandy, and use sparkling white grape juice instead of club soda.
  • Garnish the serving bowl with fresh rosemary sprigs for an extra festive look.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbycarla.com/best-holiday-sangria-recipe-for-parties/