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Close-up of fall sangria in a glass garnished with fresh cranberries, lemon slices, cinnamon sticks, and star anise, with a second glass in the background.
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5 from 2 votes

Fall Sangria Recipe

This easy Fall Sangria Recipe combines red wine, bourbon, tart cranberry juice, maple syrup, and warm spices for a fruity, festive autumn cocktail. Ready in just 10 minutes, it's perfect for fall parties, Friendsgiving, and Thanksgiving gatherings!
Prep Time10 minutes
Total Time10 minutes
Course: Brunch, Drinks, Holiday
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Thanksgiving Sangria Recipe
Servings: 8
Calories: 174kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 750 ml bottle of full bodied red wine, such as Malbec, Pinot Noir or Zinfandel 
  • ⅓ cup bourbon whiskey 
  • 1 cup unsweetened cranberry juice 
  • ½ cup pure maple syrup + 2 tbsp 
  • ⅛ cup fresh squeezed lemon juice (about 1 lemon) 

Garnishes: 

  • apple slices from one large apple, such as gala or pink lady 
  • cinnamon sticks 
  • star anise (add 2-3 max for 1 large pitcher) 
  • sliced lemon wheels
  • frozen or fresh cranberries 

Instructions

  • Add wine, bourbon, cranberry juice, maple syrup and lemon juice to a large pitcher.
  • Whisk to combine.
  • Add apple slices, cranberries, lemon slices.
  • Stir to combine.
  • 30 minutes to 1 hour before serving, add the cinnamon sticks and star anise.
  • Serve over ice with additional garnishes!

Notes

  • Wine: Malbec is my go-to, but any dry, full-bodied red wine or red blend works well.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until serving.
  • Add Spices Last: Add cinnamon sticks and star anise 30–60 minutes before serving to prevent overpowering the sangria.
  • Adjust Sweetness: Add maple syrup to taste, especially if using sweetened cranberry juice.
  • Serving a Crowd: Makes 8 servings. Double the recipe for larger gatherings and serve in a punch bowl or drink dispenser.
  • Cinnamon Sugar Rim: Rub a lemon wedge around the glass rim and dip in cinnamon sugar for a festive touch.

Nutrition

Calories: 174kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.01g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 6mg | Potassium: 195mg | Fiber: 0.04g | Sugar: 17g | Vitamin A: 16IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 32mg | Iron: 1mg