White wine apple cider sangria is a lovely addition to autumn gatherings and fall brunches. Gather your apples and the rest of the ingredients and give this refreshing recipe a try.
I first thought of this combination after attending a wine mixology class at Chicago Gourmet a few years ago. They paired wine with cider, and I loved the contrast.
I experimented at home with a simple, sweet white wine and crisp Honeycrisp apples. Honeycrisp is my go-to because it stays firm and adds pleasant crunch to the sangria.
Add halved grapes for extra sweetness, and swap sparkling water for hard cider to introduce apple-forward effervescence. The result is a casual, crowd-pleasing cocktail that works well for handing out Halloween candy or serving at a relaxed autumn brunch.
I usually pick up a familiar hard cider at the store—Angry Orchard works well—but any crisp cider will pair nicely.
White Wine Apple Cider Sangria
This white wine apple cider sangria balances the sweetness of a fruity white wine with bright citrus and crisp fruit. Finishing the drink with hard cider adds light fizz and a refreshing apple note, making it ideal for warm afternoons, outdoor gatherings, or festive fall events.
Its bright flavors and sparkling finish make it especially appealing for sharing with friends and family.
White Wine Apple Cider Sangria Ingredients
Honeycrisp apples: Sweet and crunchy, Honeycrisp apples keep their texture in the sangria and absorb the drink’s flavors. Use about 3 cups cored and chopped (roughly 2 large apples).
Red grapes: Halved red grapes add juicy sweetness and a pop of color—about 1 1/2 cups.
Lemon: One lemon, cut into pieces, brings bright citrus notes to balance the sweetness.
Lime: One lime, cut into pieces, adds a touch of tartness and freshness.
Sweet white wine: A 750 ml bottle of sweet white wine forms the base of the sangria and contributes fruity, floral flavors.
Orange liqueur: 1/2 cup of triple sec or Cointreau enhances the citrus profile and adds depth.
Sugar: Two tablespoons of sugar, or to taste, to round out the flavors.
Hard cider: About 36 ounces (three 12-ounce bottles) of hard cider to top the sangria with effervescence and apple character.
How To Make White Wine Apple Cider Sangria
Prepare the sangria base: In a large pitcher, combine the chopped Honeycrisp apples, halved red grapes, lemon pieces, lime pieces, sweet white wine, orange liqueur, and sugar. Stir well so the sugar dissolves and the fruit begins to release its juices.
Chill to infuse: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least four hours. Chilling lets the fruit and alcohol meld, producing a more aromatic and flavorful sangria.
Serve: When ready, pour the wine-and-fruit mixture into glasses, filling them about halfway. Top each glass with hard cider to add sparkle and a crisp apple finish.
Enjoy: Serve chilled and garnish with extra fruit if desired. This sangria is best enjoyed fresh, while the cider remains bubbly.
White Wine Apple Cider Sangria
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Equipment
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Large pitcher or beverage dispenser
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Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 3 cups Honeycrisp apples cored and chopped (about 2 large apples)
- 1 ½ cups red grapes halved
- 1 lemon cut into pieces
- 1 lime cut into pieces
- 750 ml sweet white wine
- ½ cup orange liqueur
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 36 ounces hard cider
Instructions
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In a large pitcher, combine all ingredients except the cider. Stir well, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to let the flavors meld.
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To serve, pour the wine-and-fruit mixture into glasses about halfway, then top each glass with hard cider. Serve chilled.