The "Fierce & Festive" Fireball Apple Cider Sangria
This isn't your average summer sangria. We've combined crisp Pinot Grigio, unfiltered apple cider, and a kick of Fireball whisky to create the ultimate autumn pitcher drink. Finished with spicy ginger beer and a cinnamon-sugar rim, it’s the perfect make-ahead cocktail for Thanksgiving or holiday parties.
Equipment
- Large Glass Pitcher: You need a pitcher that holds at least 2 quarts (64oz) to accommodate the liquid and all that chopped fruit.
- Long-Handled Spoon: Essential for stirring the fruit from the bottom without splashing.
- Mandoline Slicer: (Optional) This is the secret to getting those orange slices perfectly thin and uniform so they look beautiful floating in the glass.
- Shallow Rimming Plate: A small appetizer plate or saucer works best for the cinnamon-sugar rim.
- Stemless Wine Glasses: The best vessel for serving sangria—they are sturdy and have plenty of room for ice and fruit chunks.
Ingredients
- 1 bottle 750ml Dry White Wine (Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1 cup Fireball Cinnamon Whisky
- 4 cups Apple Cider Unfiltered/Cloudy is best for flavor
- 1 ½ cups Ginger Beer Chilled - wait to add!
- 2 Honeycrisp Apples chopped (Red skin adds color!)
- 1 Navel Orange thinly sliced
- 3 Cinnamon Sticks plus more for garnish
For the Rim: 2 tbsp Sugar + 1 tsp Cinnamon
Instructions
- Chop & Drop: Add apples, oranges, and cinnamon sticks to a large pitcher.
- Pour: Add the wine, Fireball, and apple cider. Stir gently.
- Chill: Refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours. (Do not add the ginger beer yet!).
- Rim the Glasses: Wet glass rims with a lemon wedge; dip in cinnamon sugar.
- Fizz & Serve: Just before serving, stir in the cold Ginger Beer. Pour over ice, ensuring fruit gets into every glass.
Notes
Don't have Ginger Beer? Use Prosecco for a sparkling version, or Club Soda for a less sweet version. Avoid Ginger Ale if possible (it's too sweet!).
Make Ahead: You can mix the wine/cider/whiskey base 24 hours in advance. Add fruit and soda just before serving.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!