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Cozy Bourbon Fall Sangria: Easy Cinnamon Orange Drink

Cozy Bourbon Fall Sangria - featured image

A simple, crowd-pleasing fall sangria made with red wine, bourbon, fresh oranges, apples, and cinnamon sticks. It requires minimal effort and offers a warm, comforting flavor profile perfect for game day or cozy evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bottle (750ml) dry red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
  • 1 cup bourbon (such as Maker’s Mark or Buffalo Trace)
  • 2 large navel oranges, sliced into rounds
  • 2 medium crisp apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), sliced into wedges
  • 34 whole cinnamon sticks
  • 23 tablespoons honey or simple syrup (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  • Sparkling water (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Wash the oranges and apples thoroughly. Slice the oranges into thin rounds (about 1/4 inch) and remove any seeds. Slice the apples into wedges, keeping the skin on.
  2. Place the sliced oranges and apple wedges into a large glass pitcher (approx. 2-quart size).
  3. Add the cinnamon sticks to the pitcher.
  4. Pour in the bourbon and orange juice. Stir gently to combine the liquids with the fruit.
  5. Open the bottle of red wine and pour it into the pitcher. Taste the mixture; if it is too strong or tart, add honey or simple syrup now. Stir again to ensure everything is well mixed.
  6. Cover the pitcher tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Before serving, taste the sangria again and adjust sweetness if necessary. Give it a final stir.
  8. If desired, add sparkling water right before serving for a fizzier drink.
  9. Pour over ice cubes in glasses. Garnish with a fresh orange slice or a sprig of mint if available. Enjoy immediately.

Notes

Do not skip the chilling time; it allows the bourbon to mellow and the flavors to infuse. Use whole cinnamon sticks rather than ground cinnamon to prevent a gritty texture. If using very tart apples, you may need more honey. This drink keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: bourbon sangria, fall cocktail, red wine sangria, cinnamon orange drink, game day drinks, easy sangria recipe, autumn drinks