This Christmas sangria isn’t your typical sweet punch. I love it because it’s all about layering unexpected flavors—bright citrus, spicy warmth, a hint of tart cranberries—all in one glass. It’s the kind of drink that sparks conversations and makes the holiday feel a little more alive.
Why I Keep Coming Back to This Recipe
It’s the perfect mix of bright, spicy, and tart. Every time I make it, I rediscover how simple ingredients can create a warm, festive feeling. It’s a spontaneous crowd-pleaser that never fails to lift spirits, even during the chaos of the season.
Breaking Down the Flavors & Ingredients
- Red wine:: A fruity, not too tannic variety makes a good base, bringing depth and richness.
- Citrus fruits:: Bright, juicy oranges and lemons add zest and a refreshing bite.
- Cranberries:: Tart and vibrant, they add color and a touch of winter cheer.
- Spices:: Cinnamon, cloves, and star anise create a warm, spicy aroma that envelops each sip.
- Sweetener:: Honey or simple syrup balances acidity, adding a gentle, natural sweetness.
- Alcohol:: Brand y or orange liqueur deepens the flavor and rounds out the drink.
- Sparkling water:: A fizzy lift that keeps the sangria lively and refreshing.
Tools & Equipment for Your Festive Brew
- Large pitcher or bowl: To mix and serve your sangria, giving enough room for all ingredients.
- Sharp knife: For slicing citrus fruits and prepping other fresh ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To measure alcohol, sweeteners, and spices precisely.
- Wooden spoon or stirrer: To gently mix everything together without breaking the fruit.
Steps to Craft Your Spiced Citrus Sangria
Step 1: Select a large pitcher or bowl, about 2 liters capacity, to hold all your ingredients comfortably.
Step 2: Pour 750 ml of dry red wine into the pitcher, choosing a fruity, not too tannic variety.
Step 3: Add sliced oranges, lemons, and a handful of fresh cranberries for a pop of color and tartness.
Step 4: Mix in a splash of brandy or orange liqueur to deepen the flavor and add warmth.
Step 5: Stir in a cinnamon stick, a few cloves, and a star anise to infuse spicy, aromatic notes.
Step 6: Chill the sangria in the fridge for at least 2 hours, allowing flavors to meld and the fruit to soak up the wine.
Step 7: Just before serving, add a splash of sparkling water or club soda for a fizzy finish.
Step 8: Serve over ice, garnished with extra citrus slices or a sprig of fresh rosemary for a festive look.
Cooking Checkpoints & Tips to Keep in Mind
- Ensure the wine is chilled to keep the sangria refreshingly cold.
- Infuse the spices for at least 2 hours to develop rich, layered flavors.
- Use fresh, ripe citrus for maximum brightness and aroma.
- Adjust sweetness with honey or sugar if the tartness feels too sharp.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
- Choosing a cheap, overly tannic wine.? Use a mild wine, not too tannic or sweet, for balance.
- Skipping the resting time after mixing.? Let the spices infuse for at least 2 hours.
- Adding bubbles too early, causing them to dissipate.? Add sparkling water just before serving.
- Overly tart or bland final flavor.? Taste and adjust sweetness before serving.
Festive Spiced Citrus Sangria
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice the oranges and lemons into thin rounds, aiming for even, vibrant slices that will add visual appeal and fresh flavor.
- Pour the red wine into a large pitcher or bowl, creating a sturdy base for your sangria.
- Add the citrus slices and a handful of fresh cranberries to the wine, distributing them evenly for color and tartness.
- Pour in the brandy or orange liqueur, stirring gently to incorporate the flavors without breaking the fruit.
- Drop in the cinnamon stick, cloves, and star anise, then stir to ensure all spices are submerged and begin to infuse their warm aroma.
- Refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours, allowing the spices to develop deep, layered flavors and the fruit to soak up the wine.
- Taste the sangria and add honey or simple syrup to balance tartness or enhance sweetness as desired.
- Just before serving, add a splash of sparkling water or club soda to give the sangria a lively, fizzy lift.
- Stir gently to combine the bubbles and flavors, then fill glasses with ice and pour the sangria over, garnishing with extra citrus slices or a sprig of rosemary for a festive touch.
Notes
Hi there! I’m Himani and welcome to Val’s Recipe Box. This little corner of the internet didn’t begin with me.
It began with Val my neighbourhood aunt whose kitchen held more warmth than any fireplace ever could.
This little corner of the internet didn’t begin with me.
It began with Val my neighbourhood aunt whose kitchen held more warmth than any fireplace ever could.
She was more of a friend and I’ve come to know her in the most unexpected way.
