Turn Your Summer Sangria Into the Perfect Fall Cocktail

The Hudson Valley's Freefall Sangria proves just how versatile – and delicious – the warm-weather drink can be.

When it comes to summertime sips, sangria is iconic. Although we love a good rosé, there’s nothing like a fruity glass of sangria to pair with a savory barbecue on a breezy evening. Once fall rolls around, however, the beloved beverage often gets forgotten as hardier red wines and dry whites take center stage.

Instead of saying farewell to sangria-filled evenings, upgrade the drink with fall-appropriate flavors. Local expert Christine Kelley, owner of the Hudson Valley-based Freefall Sangria, shares her tips to tweak the drink for the season.

“Our [sangria] is quite different than most others since it is twice the alcohol and not so sweet,” Kelley explains. “It’s also very bold in flavor so it works very well as a cocktail base.”

For autumn, she recommends “Some Like It Hot” (recipe below) or the “Freefall Sour” (recipe here).

Some Like It Hot Cocktail

Course: CocktailCuisine: American
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes
Total time

30

minutes

A warm fall take on a refreshing summer cocktail, this sangria recipe is a twist on mulled wine that’s perfect for the cool weather.

Ingredients

  • Option 1
  • 1 bottle Freefall Sangria

  • 2 cups apple cider

  • 3 cinnamon sticks

  • 6 allspice berries

  • 8 cloves

  • 2 star anise

  • ¼ orange

  • Option 2
  • 1 bottle Freefall Sangria

  • 2 cups apple cider

  • 3 tea bags of mulling spices

Directions

  • Option 1
  • Pierce orange with cloves
  • Place all ingredients in pot and heat on low for 20 minutes
  • Strain and serve warm
  • Option 2
  • Place all ingredients in pot and heat on low for 20 minutes
  • Take out tea bags and serve warm

Notes

  • For even more warmth, you can add brandy or bourbon after you heat the sangria.

When to Serve It

Lovers of the traditional sangria beverage are used to kicking back with a glass of the fruity concoction at summer shindigs, and this cool weather version is no different. Make a batch for a fall get-together or cuddle up around the campfire with a warm glass of “Some Like it Hot” in hand. To make it even more festive for the season, add in a full cinnamon stick garnish for a spicier flavor and visual effect. Whether for football games, dinner parties, or weekend getaways, this recipe is simple enough to convince anyone that sangria is superb for the fall.

Sangria for fall
Adobe Stock / Photo by toxxiiccat

What to Serve It With

While sangria is delightful on it’s own, it’s even better as an accompaniment to fall dishes. If you’re planning a dinner party, consider serving this spaghetti alla carrettiera or this chicken cacciatore for the main course. After that, finish strong with these pumpkin chocolate chip cookies, because who can say no to a seasonal twist on the beloved treat?


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