📖 Instructions

1. Gather all your beautiful fruits: First things first, wash all your fruits thoroughly. You'll want them clean and ready for infusing. Once washed, grab your cutting board and a sharp knife.
2. Prepare the apples and oranges: Core and chop the apples into small, bite-sized cubes, roughly 1/2 inch (1.25 cm). Then, slice the oranges into thin, round wheels. You can halve the orange slices if they're too large.
3. Prepare the cranberries: If using fresh cranberries, simply rinse them. If using frozen, there's no need to thaw them beforehand; they'll help keep the sangria cool as they infuse.
4. Combine ingredients in a large pitcher: Take your largest pitcher or a festive punch bowl. Add the chopped apples, orange slices, and cranberries to the bottom. Don't be shy; a generous amount of fruit is key!
5. Pour in the liquids: Carefully pour the full bottle of red wine over the fruit. Next, add the brandy (if using) and the orange juice. Then, sprinkle in the granulated sugar and add the cinnamon sticks. This is where the magic starts to happen!
6. Gently stir to combine: Using a long spoon or ladle, gently stir all the ingredients together. You want to make sure the sugar dissolves and all the fruit is coated and submerged in the liquid. Try not to mash the fruit; we want nice, intact pieces.
7. Chill for maximum flavor: This step is crucial! Cover your pitcher tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Transfer it to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 4 hours. For the absolute best, most robust flavor, letting it sit overnight (8-12 hours) is highly recommended. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld beautifully.
8. Taste and adjust sweetness (optional): After chilling, give it a taste. If you prefer it sweeter, add a little more sugar, stir until dissolved, and chill for another 30 minutes.
9. Add sparkling water just before serving: When you're ready to serve, remove the sangria from the fridge. Stir one last time. Just before pouring into individual glasses, top off the pitcher with chilled sparkling water or club soda for that delightful, festive fizz. Adding it too early can make the drink flat.
10. Serve with garnish: Ladle the sangria into wine glasses or tumblers, making sure each glass gets a generous portion of the fruit. For an extra special touch, you can garnish each glass with a fresh orange slice, a few extra cranberries, or even a cinnamon stick. Enjoy your holiday celebration!
11. Storage tips: Any leftover sangria (without the added sparkling water) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The fruit will continue to soften and the flavors deepen!