My Favorite Fall Sangria for a Crowd

Adapted from "A Farmgirl's Dabbles," this is the recipe I pull out every fall for parties and fall gatherings. It's also the recipe I pass along to friends the most! You'll need to plan ahead for this one - but it's so worth it!

This is an absolute gem of a cocktail! Warm, tasty and is everything great about fall.

If there's one cocktail recipe I've been asked about repeatedly, its this one. Easy to make, full of amazing flavor, and a hit with guests, this fall sangria - with the delicate balance of chardonnay, bourbon, and apples, plus the herbal notes of thyme - is goodness in a glass.

Need a new recipe after your fall apple-picking adventure? Have I got the fall cocktail for you.

Remember, this is one you want to start early - soaking those apples for a few hours really brings out all the rich flavor. And those apples are so tasty to nibble on! I also recommend finding a local brewery's hard apple cider for fresh taste, and to support local businesses. Stay away from flavored ciders or those that aren't considered a 'crisp' cider.

Don't miss out on making this delightful sangria for your next get-together - friends will be raving about it!

Fall Sangria with Bourbon and Apples

Ingredients (makes 8 - 10 cocktails)

• 1 bottle un-oaked Chardonnay (your local liquor store or wine store will be your best bet to find this)

• 2 cups fresh apple cider (NOT store-bought apple juice or concentrate)

• 1/2 cup bourbon

• 2 TBL fresh-squeezed lemon juice (not concentrate or from a bottle)

• 1- 2 tsp orange bitters

• 2 medium, tart/sweet apples

• 6 sprigs fresh thyme

• 2 bottles or cans (12 oz each) crisp hard apple cider (example: Angry Orchard)

• Garnish: additional thyme sprigs for each glass
  

Mix it Up

1. Starting with a LARGE pitcher or container, combine the Chardonnay, apple cider, bourbon, lemon juice and orange bitters. DO NOT ADD the hard cider yet!

2. Thinly slice the apples crosswise to make apple rings - no need to peel. Then remove the seeds and slice the rings in half. They will be half-moon shaped.

3. Add the sliced apples and the 6 thyme sprigs to the container, then mix one more time. Seal and place in the refrigerator 3 - 4 hours to combine all flavors.

4. Right before serving, add the hard cider and stir to combine. Taste and adjust as needed, adding more bourbon, cider, bitters, etc.

5. TO SERVE: fill a rocks glass or cocktail glass with ice. Ladle or pour the cocktail over the ice, being sure to add a few of the apple slices. Garnish with the thyme sprigs and enjoy!

Cheers to friendship and fall!

Note: this sangria could also be poured into a punch bowl for serving. Be sure to pour all ingredients, including the apple slices, into the bowl.

Looking for all the best in fall products and favorites for the coziest fall? Check out Decadent Parties' Benable profile for my favorites!

All the Best Cozy Fall Inspiration Here!

This is a cocktail that screams fall! Enjoy!