Begin by slicing the fresh fruit. Take 1 large apple and 1 large pear, and cut them into thin slices or cubes. Feel free to leave the skin on for added color and texture. The apple slices should be thin enough to release their juices but thick enough to hold their shape in the sangria. For a pop of citrus, slice 1 orange into thin rounds, which will add brightness and acidity to the drink.

Optional: Add ½ cup of fresh cranberries for a festive touch and a hint of tartness. If cranberries aren’t available, pomegranate seeds can be used as a colorful alternative.

In a large pitcher, combine 3 cups of apple cider with the bottle (750ml) of wine. Whether you’re using a white wine for a light and refreshing sangria or a red wine for a richer, deeper flavor, pour it in slowly, stirring gently to mix the apple cider and wine without losing the effervescence of the cider.

If you prefer a stronger sangria, add ½ cup of brandy or spiced rum. This optional step enhances the warmth and complexity of the drink, making it perfect for evening gatherings or cool nights.

Drop in 2-3 cinnamon sticks for an aromatic infusion. Cinnamon not only adds a cozy warmth but also deepens the flavor of the apple cider. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also add whole cloves or a star anise for a hint of spice and licorice flavor. These spices will subtly infuse the sangria as it chills, creating layers of flavor.

Depending on your personal preference and the sweetness of your cider, you may want to add 1-2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup. Stir thoroughly until the sweetener is completely dissolved. Maple syrup adds a rich, earthy sweetness, while honey brings a floral note to the drink. If your apple cider is already sweet enough, feel free to skip this step.

Place the pitcher in the refrigerator and let the sangria chill for at least 1 hour, though overnight is ideal. As it chills, the flavors from the fruit and spices will meld together, creating a beautifully balanced drink. The longer the sangria sits, the more intense the flavors will become.

Optional: Just before serving, stir in 1 cup of sparkling water or club soda if you’d like a bit of fizz. The carbonation adds a refreshing texture and lightness to the sangria, making it perfect for brunches or daytime gatherings. If you’re going for a richer, more robust flavor, you can skip the sparkling water.

To serve, fill glasses with ice and pour the chilled sangria over the top. Be sure to include a few pieces of the fruit in each glass for a beautiful presentation and a little extra flavor. You can garnish each glass with a slice of apple, pear, or a cinnamon stick for added flair.