Mulled Wine Sangria (Perfect Christmas Cocktail)

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With tart cranberries, mulling spices, red wine, and liquor, this mulled red wine sangria is served on ice and sure to be a new winter favorite! 

Last Christmas, we were invited to a neighborhood brunch and I was asked to bring a cocktail to share. My sister makes the best drinks in the world, and she gave me her recipe for this mulled red wine sangria.

At the brunch, everyone was walking around with these adorable and festive drinks and I got many requests for the recipe before the morning was over.

This is served chilled, highlighting the tart cranberries along with the same flavors and spices I love about a warm mulled wine. 

Along with the spices and berries, this has the holiday combination of Cointreau and brandy. With the celebratory flavors of fresh cranberry, this mulled red wine sangria is perfect for get-togethers, celebrations, and evenings in front of the fire. 

What is Mulled Wine Sangria? //

We have the Romans to thank for this Christmas treat. They were the first ones documented for warming their wine for the winter months. That said, sangria is also associated with summer and sitting on patios in the sun. It can be served chilled, with oodles of fruit and additional spirits. This recipe is the best of both worlds! I am usually hesitant for sweeter wines and drinks, but this mulled red wine sangria is balanced, thanks to the tartness of the cranberries and plenty of mulling spices. 

What Makes This Mulled Wine Sangria So Good? //

This drink blew my mind when I first had it, since mulled wine and sangria seem like opposites but I can’t believe I haven’t done it earlier. I love this because: 

• Since it is chilled, the drink is more refreshing than cozy, so it pairs far better with appetizers and full meals. 
• Easily serves a big crowd at a brunch, celebration, or open house. 
• It can be made ahead, and kept in the fridge until ready. 

Ingredients //

• cranberries
• cranberry juice
• brown sugar
• mulling spices
• orange peel
• liquor (brandy and Cointreau)
• Rosemary sprigs, more fresh cranberries, and orange slices are my preferred garnishes to have on hand. Oh! And lots of ice! 
• Wine: The wine choice will make a huge difference in the sweetness of this drink. I prefer a Pinot Noir or Beaujolais, which balance well the tartness of the cranberries. Mid-shelf and blends are more affordable and work well here! 
• Mulling Spices: This is also dependent upon preference, but there are some usual suspects in these blends. Often, this includes cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice. You can buy pre-packaged spice blends, or make your own mix at home  

How to Make // The Steps 

The process for this mulled red wine sangria is relatively straight forward. We are basically mulling wine, but rather than serving it as-is, we chill and add our spirits before serving. I prefer to make this ahead of time and chill overnight. 

• First, gather your cranberry juice, cranberries, brown sugar, mulling spices, and orange peel.
• Add them all to a saucepan on medium-low, and cook until the brown sugar has dissolved completely. Set aside to cool. 

• Once cooled, pour the spices and fruits into a large pitcher or bowl.
• Add your red wine, Cointreau, and brandy.
• Chill completely and serve over ice with garnishes. 

Serving Ideas // 

• I use rosemary sprigs, orange slices, and fresh cranberries as a garnish.
• Since the color of this mulled red wine sangria is so gorgeous, I like to serve it in a clear glass or mason jar! 
• If serving this at events or gatherings with lots of folks, using some fun drink markers is always a hit. I love using these, and they’re a great conversation starter! 
• To include any kids or non-drinkers in the mix, you can add sparkling cider instead of wine and liquor after the first step. 

What is the Difference Between Sangria and Mulled Wine?

Sangria, that fruity and refreshing drink, originated in Spain and Portugal. It contains both red and white wines, chopped fruit, citrus juice, sweetener, and sometimes brandy or other spirits. The fruit and sweetener bring the sweetness, while the wine and spirits add depth and complexity (and alcohol).

Mulled wine is warm and spicy and is better known throughout much of Europe. It contains only red wine (not white wine this time), which is heated then mixed with spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. For that added sweetness, some turn to fruit juice or honey. The spices add warmth and a distinct scent while the wine and fruit juice or honey add depth and sweetness.

Which Red Wine Goes Well With Cranberries?

I recommend a Beaujolais or Pinot Noir on account they are lighter in body and have some sweetness to them. That sweetness is important, as it balances out the tartness of the cranberries.

You could also try a sparkling red wine, such as Lambrusco, which would provide a refreshing contrast to the tartness of the cranberries.

Other Holiday Cocktails //

• German Mulled White Wine 
• Poinsettia Cocktails 
• Blood Orange and Amaretto Cocktails 
• Traditional Glogg (Mulled Wine) 
• Warm Cranberry Cuddle 

If you make this recipe, I’d love to know how it goes! Be sure to follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest, too!