It's Noon Somewhere...Apple Cider Sangria

Since Thanksgiving is only two days away and that means Christmas is almost upon us, I wanted to share a fall sangria that would be perfect for a cozy Thanksgiving evening.  I made this for K a couple times last month and if he hadn't filched all my brandy, I would be making it again tonight (I am much too lazy to go and get the supplies I need on this gross evening)!  It is a rainy, yucky night here in Seattle and this sangria sounds perfect right about now.

It is a richer sangria than what I usually like.  Essentially, you make a simple spiced apple cider mix that to create a sort of cold mulled wine.  

Apple Cider Sangria:

1 bottle of Red Wine (I would use a Tempranillo or a Rioja)

2 cups of apple cider

1/3 cup sugar

cloves

cinnamon stick

1 orange

1 apple

1/2 cup brandy

1/2 cup orange juice

Begin by heating the apple cider on the stove with sugar, cloves, a couple cinnamon stick, the zest of one orange and a couple orange slices.  I let it simmer for about five or ten minutes until all the flavors are incorporated.  Strain it into a pitcher.

Once your cider has cooled, add the bottle of red wine, the brandy and the orange juice.  I also cut up an apple and put that in as well some grapes if you have them.

Refrigerate for a couple hours or up to one day.  Garnish with orange and a cinnamon stick!  

Enjoy and Happy Thanksgiving!

Julie