Apple Cider Sangria

Source: mylifeasamrs.com via Caitlin on Pinterest

Nate and I were looking for a new punch to serve at our annual holiday party this year.  We have made Algonquin Bar Punch for the last few years.  It's tasty, but takes some prep time.  We were ready for something new.  I went to my latest recipe source, Pinterest, to find some ideas.  Apple Cider Sangria won.

Apple Cider Sangria
yield: 6 1/2 cups

Ingredients:

For the Spiced Apple Cider:2 cups apple cider (the real stuff - opaque in color & found in the refrigerator section)
1/3 cup sugar
2 cinnamon sticks
1/2 teaspoon cloves (this was a lot of clove... I'd use less next time)
1/4-1/2 teaspoon ground allspice (I didn't have this, so I threw in some nutmeg?)
1/2 teaspoon orange zest
2 orange slices (rounds)

For the Spiced Apple Cider Sangria:1 bottle inexpensive Spanish red wine (we used a cheap Cabernet Sauvignon)
2 cups spiced apple cider (recipe above)
1/2 cup orange juice
1/2 cup brandy (we added extra brandy!)

Directions:

For the Spiced Apple Cider: Mix together all ingredients in a medium sized saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat and then remove from heat and allow to cool completely. Strain before using.

For the Spiced Apple Cider Sangria:Mix ingredients together in a large pitcher and garnish with orange wheels and cinnamon sticks. To serve, pour over ice.  Enjoy!