Cocktail of the Month: Winter Mountain Sangria

As the temperatures drop and the snow begins to fall, there’s nothing quite like a soothing, festive drink to wark the season. This month, we spotlight our Winter Mountain Sangria, a modern twist on a centuries-old favorite. With vibrant flavors of American Vodka, Galen Glen Winter Mountain Red, lemon, honey ginger, hibiscus tea, and a crisp ginger beer topper, this sangria brings a delightful mix of sweet, tart, and spicy notes—perfect for sipping by a cozy fire.

A Brief History of Sangria

Sangria traces its roots back to the sun-drenched vineyards of Spain and Portugal. The name “sangria” is derived from the Spanish word sangre, meaning “blood,” about its deep red color when made with red wine. Historically, sangria was a practical way for winemakers to stretch their wine supply, blending it with fruits and spices to enhance flavor and serve as a thirst-quenching beverage, especially during warm summers.

While Spain often claims credit for the popularization of sangria, variations of this fruit-and-wine punch have appeared throughout Europe for centuries. Early forms of sangria likely included wine mixed with fruit, sugar, and a splash of brandy or other spirits. In the mid-20th century, sangria began to gain international fame—particularly in the United States—where it was embraced as a festive, laid-back drink suited for gatherings and celebrations.

Today, sangria recipes abound, with countless twists that use different wines, spirits, fruits, and flavorings. Even so, the heart of sangria remains the same: a wine-forward base enlivened by complementary ingredients that amplify its color, aroma, and taste.

Introducing the Winter Mountain Sangria

Our Winter Mountain Sangria celebrates the classic sangria tradition while embracing the cozy, comforting spirit of the colder months. This cocktail layers sweet and tangy elements, rich wine notes, and a spritz of warming spice—giving you a taste of springtime florals and holiday cheer all at once.

Key Ingredients:

• American Vodka: Smooth and neutral, the vodka ties all the flavors together without overpowering the wine’s character.
• Galen Glen Winter Mountain Red: A robust, slightly fruity wine that forms the core of this sangria, providing a depth and warmth reminiscent of mulled wine season.
• Lemon: Brightens the profile, cutting through the sweetness and adding a zingy freshness.
• Honey Ginger: Contributes a natural sweetness and gentle spice that complement the citrus and wine, giving the drink a warm, soothing quality.
• Hibiscus Tea: Offers floral, tart notes plus a gorgeous hue, enhancing both taste and visual appeal.
• Ginger Beer: Topping the sangria with ginger beer provides a sparkling finish, accentuating the ginger notes and adding a lively fizz.

How It’s Made

• Brew the Hibiscus Tea: Brew a small batch of hibiscus tea. Let it cool to room temperature or slightly chilled.
• Combine the Base: In a pitcher, mix the Galen Glen Winter Mountain Red, a generous splash of American Vodka, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and your honey ginger. Stir gently.
• Add Hibiscus Tea: Pour in the cooled hibiscus tea, which brings floral, and tart complexity. Adjust the quantity based on your preference for sweetness and acidity.
• Chill and Infuse: Let the mixture rest in the fridge for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
• Top with Ginger Beer: Just before serving, pour your sangria into glasses, leaving a bit of room to top each one with ginger beer. This step adds a zesty sparkle to the final sip.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish: Float fresh citrus slices or edible flowers to reinforce the vibrant look and flavor.
• Accompaniments: Pair your Winter Mountain Sangria with hearty winter fare such as roasted root vegetables, savory stews, or spiced pastries.
• Presentation: Serve in clear glasses or a glass pitcher to show off the brilliant color of the hibiscus tea and red wine.

Embracing Tradition and Innovation

Like the original sangria that evolved over centuries, the Winter Mountain Sangria embodies the spirit of adaptation—mixing together the best seasonal, local ingredients into a familiar and innovative cocktail. Enjoy it at your next holiday gathering, or savor a quiet evening by the fire.

With its blend of robust red wine, citrus brightness, floral hibiscus, and a hint of spice, this sangria celebrates the cozy comfort of winter and the lively tradition that sangria has come to represent. Cheers to a new twist on an old classic!