Looking for the ultimate fall drink that combines the best of wine and seasonal flavors? This Apple Cider Sangria is about to become your new autumn tradition. I discovered this recipe years ago when hosting a harvest dinner, and it’s been requested at every fall gathering since.

There’s something magical about the way the crisp apple notes blend with wine to create a drink that’s sophisticated yet comforting – like autumn in a glass.

Why This Recipe is Awesome

This Apple Cider Sangria stands out because it transforms ordinary wine into a seasonal celebration. Unlike traditional sangria, this version embraces fall’s signature flavors with apple cider as the star ingredient. What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility – it works beautifully with both red and white wine bases, making it adaptable to your guests’ preferences.

The combination of fresh fruit and warming spices creates complex layers of flavor that develop as it sits, meaning you can (and should!) prepare it ahead of time. As someone who’s tested countless sangria variations, I can confidently say this recipe hits the perfect balance – not too sweet, impressively aromatic, and dangerously easy to drink.

Equipment needed: Large pitcher, cutting board, knife, measuring cups

Apple Cider Sangria

This festive Apple Cider Sangria combines crisp apple cider, aromatic wine, and fresh autumn fruits with warming spices for a crowd-pleasing fall cocktail that’s both sophisticated and simple to prepare.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Total Time 10

Course Beverage, Cocktail

Cuisine American

Ingredients

1 bottle 750ml red wine (Pinot Noir or Cabernet work well)
2 cups fresh apple cider unfiltered for best flavor
1/2 cup brandy or apple brandy
1/4 cup maple syrup adjust to taste
2 apples preferably one tart like Granny Smith and one sweet like Honeycrisp, cored and sliced
1 orange sliced into rounds
1 pear cored and sliced
3 cinnamon sticks
5 whole cloves
2 star anise pods
1 cup sparkling water or club soda added just before serving
Optional garnish: additional apple slices cinnamon sticks, or fresh rosemary sprigs

Instructions

Prepare the fruit: Wash all fruit thoroughly. Core and slice the apples and pear into thin wedges (leave the skin on for color and texture). Slice the orange into rounds, then halve the rounds. Set aside a few apple slices for garnish if desired.
Combine the base ingredients: In a large pitcher, pour in the wine, apple cider, brandy, and maple syrup. Stir gently until the maple syrup is fully incorporated.
Add fruit and spices: Add the prepared fruit slices to the liquid. Drop in the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise. Gently stir to combine all ingredients.
Infuse the flavors: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably 4-6 hours or overnight. This resting time allows the fruit to infuse the liquid and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Finish and serve: Just before serving, add the sparkling water or club soda to add a light effervescence. Stir gently to combine.
Garnish each glass: Pour the sangria into glasses, making sure to include some of the fruit in each serving. Garnish with fresh apple slices, cinnamon sticks, or rosemary sprigs for an aromatic touch.

Notes

This sangria actually improves with time – making it perfect for preparing a day ahead of your gathering.
For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the wine with grape juice and omit the brandy.
If you prefer a sweeter sangria, increase the maple syrup gradually to taste.
White wine can be substituted for red – Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc work particularly well.
The spices can be placed in a small cheesecloth bag for easy removal before serving.
Add the sparkling water just before serving to maintain the bubbles.

Calories & Nutritional Info

Calories: Approximately 180-220 per serving
Alcohol content: 10-12% per serving (varies based on wine choice)
Carbohydrates: 22-25g per serving (primarily from fruit sugars)
Contains: No major allergens, but those with fruit sensitivities should note the apple, pear, and orange content
Dietary notes: Vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using artificially flavored apple cider: The quality of your cider dramatically affects the final taste. Choose fresh, unfiltered apple cider rather than artificially flavored options.
Skipping the infusion time: This sangria needs time for the flavors to meld – serving immediately after mixing will result in one-dimensional flavor.
Using poor quality wine: While you don’t need expensive wine, choose something you’d enjoy drinking on its own.
Adding sparkling water too early: It will lose its effervescence if added long before serving.
Cutting fruit too thick: Thick fruit pieces won’t infuse as well and can be awkward to drink around.

Alternatives & Substitutions

Wine alternatives: For a lighter version, use white wine or rosé. Each creates a distinctly different but equally delicious sangria.
Sweetener options: Honey or brown sugar can replace maple syrup, though maple adds a distinctive fall flavor.
Fruit variations: Pomegranate arils, cranberries, or figs make excellent seasonal additions or substitutions.
Spice adjustments: Cardamom pods, allspice berries, or a splash of vanilla extract can create interesting flavor variations.
Liquor swaps: Bourbon, spiced rum, or Calvados (apple brandy) can replace regular brandy for different flavor profiles.
Non-alcoholic version: Use grape juice instead of wine, apple juice instead of brandy, and increase the sparkling water for a family-friendly option.

FAQs

Can I make this Apple Cider Sangria ahead of time?

Not only can you make it ahead, but you absolutely should! Prepare it 12-24 hours in advance (without the sparkling water) to allow the flavors to fully develop. Add the sparkling water just before serving.

What’s the best wine to use for Apple Cider Sangria?

For red wine versions, medium-bodied wines like Pinot Noir, Merlot, or Spanish Tempranillo work beautifully. If using white wine, choose something crisp like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. Avoid heavily oaked wines as they can overpower the apple flavor.

How long will Apple Cider Sangria keep in the refrigerator?

The sangria will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. The fruit may become a bit softer over time, but the flavor actually improves for the first 24-48 hours.

Can I serve this warm instead of cold?

Absolutely! For a warm version, gently heat the mixture (except sparkling water) in a slow cooker on low for about an hour. This creates more of a mulled wine effect that’s perfect for chilly evenings.

Is there a way to make this sangria less alcoholic?

Yes, simply increase the ratio of apple cider to wine, and reduce or omit the brandy. You can also add more sparkling water to dilute the alcohol content while maintaining the flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Sangria has become my signature fall drink for good reason – it captures autumn’s essence in every sip. Whether you’re hosting a harvest party or simply enjoying a quiet evening, this versatile cocktail adds a touch of seasonal magic. Don’t be surprised if friends start requesting “that amazing apple sangria” year after year – consider yourself warned!