The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the excitement of gathering with loved ones, celebrating traditions, and of course—enjoying delicious food and drinks. If you’re looking for a festive, crowd-pleasing cocktail to serve at your next holiday gathering, look no further than this Holiday Pinot Noir Sangria.
Made with the elegant and bright flavors of Knudsen Vineyards Family Series Pinot Noir, this sangria is the perfect holiday twist on the classic Spanish drink. Packed with seasonal fruits, warming spices, and a touch of effervescence, this sangria is sure to be the star of your holiday table. Here’s how you can bring the cheer to your next winter celebration!
Why This Sangria is Perfect for the Holidays
If you’re tired of the same old holiday drinks, this Holiday Pinot Noir Sangria offers something fresh, festive, and sophisticated. The smooth, fruity notes of Pinot Noir from Knudsen Vineyards are the perfect base for a winter sangria. The bright acidity and berry notes of the wine balance beautifully with the citrus, pear, and pomegranate, while cinnamon adds a comforting warmth to the drink.
What makes this recipe even better is that it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a little time to chill, you can create a stunning holiday cocktail that will impress your guests and elevate your celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 tablespoons agave nectar
1/4 cup Grand Marnier
1/4 cup brandy
1 orange, halved and then sliced
1 lime, sliced
1 pear, sliced
1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
2 sticks of cinnamon
1 bottle of Knudsen Vineyards Family Series Pinot Noir (or another dry Pinot Noir)
3/4 cup ginger ale
Instructions for Holiday Sangria:
Combine the Base Ingredients
In a large pitcher, add the agave nectar, Grand Marnier, brandy, orange slices, lime slices, pear slices, pomegranate seeds, and cinnamon sticks. Stir everything well to combine and release the flavors from the fruit and spices.
Add the Wine
Pour in the entire bottle of Knudsen Vineyards Family Series Pinot Noir. The wine’s subtle berry flavors and smooth finish create the perfect foundation for this festive sangria.
Let It Chill
Cover the pitcher and place it in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the drink’s complexity. If you have the time, letting it sit longer will give you even better results!
Add Some Bubbles
Just before you serve the sangria, add the ginger ale. This gives the drink a refreshing effervescence that elevates the flavors and adds a delightful sparkle to each glass.
Serve and Enjoy
Pour the sangria over ice or serve it chilled. You can even garnish it with additional slices of citrus or a cinnamon stick for a beautiful, festive touch.
Why Knudsen Vineyards Family Series Pinot Noir?
When it comes to making an exceptional sangria, the wine is the star of the show. The Knudsen Vineyards Family Series Pinot Noir is a perfect match for this holiday recipe. With its balance of fresh berry flavors, vibrant acidity, and smooth finish, this Pinot Noir adds depth and sophistication to the sangria. It’s a wine that pairs beautifully with winter fruits like pomegranate, pear, and citrus, while the subtle oak and spice notes from the wine blend wonderfully with the cinnamon and brandy.
Knudsen Vineyards has been producing world-class wines in Oregon’s Willamette Valley for decades, and their Family Series Pinot Noir is a true testament to their expertise. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a larger holiday celebration, this wine will make your sangria shine.
Tips for the Perfect Holiday Sangria
Sweetness Level: If you prefer your sangria on the sweeter side, you can adjust the amount of agave nectar. Start with 2 tablespoons, taste, and add more if desired.
Add Extra Festive Flairs: For a little extra holiday cheer, consider garnishing your sangria with extra fruit slices, fresh cranberries, or even a sprig of rosemary.
Make Ahead: Sangria is a great make-ahead drink. If you’re planning to serve it the next day, make it the night before and allow it to chill overnight. The flavors will continue to develop and become even more delicious.
The Perfect Drink for Every Holiday Gathering
Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, a cozy winter get-together, or simply looking for a new drink to enjoy by the fire, this Holiday Pinot Noir Sangria is the perfect choice. With its blend of seasonal ingredients, festive flavors, and the high-quality Pinot Noir from Knudsen Vineyards, it’s sure to become a new holiday favorite.
So this season, skip the traditional mulled wine and try something new and exciting with this sangria. Cheers to unforgettable moments, great company, and the best of the season!
