25 Days of Holiday Drinks, Day 3: Holiday-Spiced Sangria

Photo: courtesy of Raven & Rose

Holiday parties are supposed to be fun for the host as well as the guests, and serving a punch like this is a great way to keep things simple. Best of all, you can juice the citrus and combine all the ingredients except the soda water and ice a few hours ahead of time to make the day go a little more smoothly. Once the party is going, just stack up the punch glasses near the pitcher and let guests help themselves.

Holiday-Spiced Sangria
13 oz. dry red wine, such as Syrah or Grenache
8 oz. VS Cognac
5 oz. fresh lemon juice
5 oz. fresh orange juice
5 oz. honey syrup (2:1 honey:water)
5 oz. gingerbread syrup
soda water
Tools: pitcher, stirring spoon
Glass: punch
Garnish: orange wheels

Combine all ingredients except for the soda water in a large pitcher with ice. Stir to combine and top with more ice if needed. To serve, pour into a punch glass, top with a splash of soda water and garnish. Serves 6.

Dave Shenaut, Raven & Rose, Portland, OR