Fall Harvest Sangria

A scattering of apples, pears, dried leaves and acorns for a fall scene

An autumnal spin on a summer classic. 

by Erin Henderson

Sometimes I think sangria can take on an ugly connotation. And lawd knows, under-performing bars have not helped its reputation by just throwing whatever they’ve got into a jug, like a gigantic, boozy slop-bucket.

You may also like: Rosé Sangria Recipe

However, when you think of sangria as it’s intended: light, refreshing, flavourful, and bright, this is actually a delicate and elegant drink, any time of year.

I think Riesling is the obvious choice for this autumnal version: it has the same orchard fruit flavours as well as a slight honey note to really hum along with the rest of the orchestra. If you feel nervous about it, I first must remind you to do one thing every day that scares you, and following that, I will recommend a neutral, crisp white, like Pinot Grigio, as an alternative.  

A glass pitcher of fall sangria on a wood board, apples and pears beside it

Fall Harvest Sangria

This is already a low abv drink as the Riesling that's recommended is naturally low in alcohol and then further diluted with the cider and ginger beer. But if you want to make this elixir completely free of booze, replace the fruity Riesling with lemon soda.

Makes: 8, 6oz drinks
Bartender level: easy

Ingredients:
  • 2 cups unsweetened, non-alcoholic, apple cider

  • 1 750ml bottle white wine, such as Riesling

  • 1 250ml bottle ginger beer

  • 1 pear, sliced

  • 1 apple, sliced

  • 1 cup cranberries

How to Make It:
  1. Into a large pitcher or punch bowl, combine the apple cider and Riesling. Chill until needed.

  2. When ready, add the ginger beer and the fruit and ladle into wine goblets, being sure to spoon a mix of the fruit into each glass.

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