Mulled Wine Sangria Recipe for Cozy Holiday Gatherings

As the crisp air of fall and winter settles in, there’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm, fragrant glass of mulled wine sangria. This delightful twist on the classic sangria combines the rich, spiced flavors of traditional mulled wine with the fresh, fruity zest of sangria, making it the perfect drink for cozy nights by the fire or festive gatherings with friends.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply craving a comforting beverage, this mulled wine sangria recipe brings together the best of both worlds in a vibrant, aromatic concoction that’s sure to impress.

Get ready to infuse your evenings with warmth, spice, and a touch of sweetness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This mulled wine sangria recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves festive drinks with a fruity twist. Unlike standard mulled wine, it’s served chilled or at room temperature, offering a refreshing yet warming sensation that’s perfect for all seasons.

The combination of red wine, citrus fruits, warming spices, and a splash of brandy creates a complex flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting.

It’s incredibly simple to prepare, requiring minimal effort but delivering maximum flavor. Plus, it’s highly customizable, allowing you to swap fruits and spices to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

Whether you want a more traditional mulled wine feel or a sangria bursting with fresh fruit, this recipe is versatile enough to satisfy all preferences.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle (750 ml) of dry red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
• 1/4 cup brandy
• 1/4 cup orange liqueur (like Cointreau or Triple Sec)
• 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1 orange, thinly sliced
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 1 apple, cored and diced
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3-4 whole cloves
• 2 star anise pods
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• 1 cup sparkling water or club soda (optional, for serving)
• Ice cubes (optional)

Equipment

• Large mixing pitcher or bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or stirring utensil
• Small saucepan (for warming spices)
• Ladle (for serving)
• Glasses or mugs for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the spice infusion: In a small saucepan, combine the cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise, and freshly grated nutmeg with 1/2 cup of water. Heat gently over medium-low heat until it simmers. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to release the spices’ flavors.
2. Sweeten the base: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the honey or maple syrup until fully dissolved. Let the mixture cool slightly.
3. Combine the liquids: In a large pitcher, pour the red wine, brandy, and orange liqueur. Add the cooled spice syrup and stir well to combine all flavors.
4. Add fresh fruit: Toss in the orange and lemon slices along with the diced apple. Stir gently to distribute the fruit evenly.
5. Chill: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Serve: Before serving, add ice cubes if desired and top off with sparkling water or club soda for a refreshing fizz. Stir gently and ladle into glasses, making sure to include some fruit slices in each serving.
7. Garnish: Add a fresh cinnamon stick or a twist of orange peel in each glass for an extra festive touch.

Tips & Variations

“Mulled wine sangria is incredibly versatile — don’t hesitate to experiment with different fruits and spices to make it your own!”

• Fruit swaps: Try pomegranate seeds, cranberries, or pear slices for different flavor profiles.
• Spice it up: Add a few cardamom pods or a splash of fresh ginger juice for an extra layer of warmth.
• Alcohol alternatives: If you prefer less alcohol, reduce the brandy and orange liqueur, or replace with sparkling apple cider for a kid-friendly version.
• Make it hot: For a warm version, gently heat the sangria mixture in a pot (avoid boiling to preserve alcohol) and serve in heatproof mugs.
• Sweetness: Adjust the honey or maple syrup amount to your liking, or substitute with agave syrup or simple syrup.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and depend on exact ingredients and serving size.

Serving Suggestions

This mulled wine sangria pairs wonderfully with a variety of appetizers and meals. Consider serving it alongside a cheese board featuring aged cheddar, gouda, and brie, complemented by nuts and dried fruits.

It also goes perfectly with savory finger foods like stuffed mushrooms, roasted nuts, or spiced meatballs.

For a heartier meal, enjoy it with dishes such as roasted vegetable casseroles or [Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide](https://gluttonlv.com/recipes/vegan/afghan-vegetarian-pulao-recipe/), which offer rich, comforting flavors that complement the sangria’s warmth beautifully.

For lighter fare, this sangria is a refreshing companion to a crisp salad like the [Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas](https://gluttonlv.com/recipes/vegan/baby-spinach-salad-recipe-vegan/), adding a festive touch to your meal.

Conclusion

Mulled wine sangria is a festive, flavorful drink that blends the best of mulled wine and traditional sangria into one delightful beverage. Its balance of warm spices and fresh fruits makes it an ideal choice for cozy winter nights or lively holiday celebrations.

With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s accessible for both beginner and experienced hosts alike.

Whether served chilled for a refreshing twist or gently warmed for extra comfort, this recipe can be tailored to your personal taste and occasion. Don’t forget to experiment with different fruits and spices to create your signature version.

For more delicious and easy recipes to complement your festive gatherings, explore our collection of [Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals](https://gluttonlv.com/recipes/vegan/vegan-recipes-no-tofu/) and [Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food](https://gluttonlv.com/recipes/vegan/vegan-potato-corn-chowder-recipe/).

Cheers to warm moments and happy memories!

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