Want the perfect way to celebrate the Christmas season? Then why not try a Christmas cocktail! Sangria is a typical Spanish drink that can really spice up the festivities with its delicious mix of fruitiness and freshness. Now you can make the most tasty Christmas Sangria cocktails too to warm you up on those cold winter days huddled around the log fire.

Christmas cocktails are also perfect for serving at a festive party and bring something extra special to the event, with flavoursome red wine, ginger beer and a whole host of seasonal fruits.

Ready to make your own festive drink? Check out our recipe and our tips to make the best Christmas Sangria this holiday season.

Ingredients

  • Oranges
  • Pears
  • Apples
  • Pomegranate Seeds
  • Cranberries
  • Brown Sugar
  • Orange Juice 200ml
  • Gin 200ml
  • Red Wine 600ml
  • Ginger Beer 400ml

Instructions:

  1. Take a large glass pitcher and add sliced whole oranges, pears and apples to the bottom.
  2. Cover with pomegranate seeds and cranberries for that dark red coloration.
  3. Add two heaped tablespoons of brown sugar onto the fruit and pour on the orange juice and measured out gin.
  4. Add the red wine of your choice to the pitcher followed by the ginger beer for some sparkle.
  5. Add a star anise, then take a large wooden spoon and mix thoroughly.
  6. Serve in a wine glass or tumbler over ice.

What Is the Best Wine for Sangria?

As this Christmas punch comes all the way from sunny Spain, it would only be proper to use a Spanish red wine to complete the beverage. A sangria is a mix of red wine and fruit, it is what makes a sangria a sangria – unlike any other alcoholic drink from the region. The best wine to use for sangria is a medium-bodied rioja, however, you can also use Tempranillo or a Garnacha for a similar effect. If you find these options too pricey, then you can always use a red blend of California wine to produce that same delicious and sweet taste.

Can Sangria Be Made the Night Before?

Yes, it’s certainly possible to prepare this Christmas alcoholic drink ahead of time. You can make it and leave it for up to 48 in the refrigerator, but be sure to cover with saran wrap to keep in all those lovely flavours. The longer that you leave the sangria the better. This is because the fruits inside will soak up the aromas and tastes of the flavouring liquor.

Can I Add Spices to My Sangria?

While not to everybody’s taste, you can of course add a variety of spices to the sangria mix for a more Christmassy flavour. Why not try adding a pungent star anise to a mixture if you are leaving it overnight, or how about a cinnamon stick or some nutmeg to really bring out the flavour of the red wine.

If you’re excited about making your very own Christmas sangria, then why not give it the perfect serve with modern glassware from our drinkware selection. Check out more holiday recipes here at LC Living and make this holiday season the best one yet!