Winter White Sangria

Another seasonal drink recipe? Of course. I was so excited and determined to get this one just right that I had to make two batches to get it the way I wanted it. And I’m really glad I did, because this Winter White Sangria might be my favorite seasonal drink recipe this year.

If you couldn’t tell, I got on a sangria kick this year. They’re easy to whip up, super versatile, and you can pretty much make any flavor combination you want. My mom has a killer peach sangria recipe that I need to borrow next time peaches are in season; I think it uses white zinfandel as the base. So far this year, I’ve made berry rosé, summer fruit white sangria (which was delicious), summer berry red sangria (at special request from a couple friends), and a red fall sangria. The only thing missing? Winter.

If you know me, one of my biggest pet peeves is wearing white (and seersucker) out of season. Don’t ask why; I was raised being taught that white, seersucker, and (most) open-toed shoes go back in the closet after Labor Day and aren’t allowed out again until Easter. I don’t really believe in “winter white” when it comes to fashion. Sure, I’ve got a couple of off-white-colored sweaters, but white pants, dresses, boots, and shoes? Those can stay in my closet until Easter.

But when it comes to sangria? Bring it on. A white-wine base felt right for a wintry white sangria. It’s a good contrast to the sweet citrus, earthy rosemary, and tart cranberry flavors I used. A red-wine winter sangria just didn’t feel right.

In round one, I used pinot grigio and added fresh-squeezed orange juice. It tasted okay, but it was almost too sweet, and was missing some flavor notes. So in round two, I used sauvignon blanc, nixed the OJ, and added green apple and rosemary. Boom. Winter sangria perfection.

Here’s my recipe for Winter White Sangria for your next holiday party!

Don’t worry, the recipe easily doubles for a larger group. Make it in a big punch bowl for big parties and float fruit on the top for an Instagram-worthy beverage.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 bottle white wine, on the drier side (sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio would be best)
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1/2 lime, sliced
• 1 green apple, diced
• 1/2 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
• 1 oz. triple sec
• 1 oz. vodka
• 1 oz. light rum (optional)
• 2 sprigs rosemary
• Ginger ale, seltzer, or bubbles of choice to top

TO MAKE IT:

1. Add orange and lime slices, apple chunks, cranberries, and rosemary to a pitcher or carafe.
2. Add triple sec, rum, and vodka.
3. Pour in wine. Add rosemary last.
4. Stir or shake (carefully) to combine.
5. Top with ginger ale or bubbles of choice.
6. Chill for at least 2 hours. Best if left overnight and enjoyed the next day.
7. When serving, garnish with orange wheels, rosemary, and cranberries.

What drinks are you mixing up for your holiday parties this season?