Cranberry Vodka Sangria Cocktail Recipe

I really like making drinks that feel festive but don’t require a ton of effort. A cranberry vodka sangria fits that vibe perfectly.

It’s bright, refreshing, and honestly, it’s a breeze to mix up for just about any get-together. Here’s how I throw together a simple holiday sangria with cranberry and vodka—you can totally enjoy it any time of year.

Whenever I serve this, it always seems to get a little extra attention. There’s something about the way it balances sweet, tart, and crisp flavors in one glass.

Cranberry gives it that seasonal flair, and the vodka keeps things smooth and light. If you want something that looks fancy but doesn’t eat up your whole afternoon, this is it.

You’ll see just how quick it is to pull together. Only a handful of ingredients and a couple easy steps.

Once you try it, you’ll probably want to keep it in your rotation for parties, holidays, or even just a chill night at home.

Cranberry Vodka Sangria Cocktail Recipe

I like mixing up this cocktail because it brings together the tartness of cranberry juice, the smooth kick of vodka, and the boldness of red wine.

Fresh fruit and a splash of orange juice balance it all out. It just feels refreshing and easy to sip.

Equipment

• Large pitcher or jug (2 quarts or bigger)
• Long spoon for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Citrus juicer (I use one if I have it)
• Wine glasses or tumblers
• Ice cube tray or a bag of ice

I always reach for a big pitcher so everything has space to mix. And honestly, a sturdy spoon is a must—the fruit and liquid get pretty heavy once you combine them.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cranberry juice (unsweetened or sweetened, up to you)
• 1 bottle red wine (750 ml, something medium-bodied is best)
• 1/2 cup vodka
• 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh squeezed is great if you can swing it)
• 1/4 cup simple syrup or honey (optional, if you like it sweeter)
• 1 orange, sliced thin
• 1 lemon, sliced thin
• 1 cup fresh cranberries (optional, for garnish)
• Ice cubes

I usually go for unsweetened cranberry juice because I like more tartness, but sweetened is totally fine if you want a softer taste. A medium-bodied red wine—think Merlot or Garnacha—blends in nicely without being too much.

Instructions

• Pour the cranberry juice, red wine, vodka, and orange juice into your pitcher.
• Stir gently so everything mixes together.
• Add simple syrup or honey if you want it sweeter.
• Slice up the orange and lemon, toss the slices in.
• Throw in some fresh cranberries for color.
• Stick the pitcher in the fridge for at least an hour.
• Fill your glasses with ice cubes.
• Pour the sangria over the ice and serve right away.

I really think chilling it helps the fruit flavors come out. The fruit gets a chance to infuse, and the drink just tastes better.

Serving it over ice keeps it cold, and it doesn’t get watered down too fast.

Notes

I like to make this a few hours ahead so the fruit has time to release its juices. If I leave it overnight, the flavors get stronger, but honestly, the citrus slices can start tasting a bit bitter if they sit too long.

Fresh orange juice makes a pretty big difference compared to the bottled stuff. It adds brightness and just balances out the tart cranberry.

If you want something lighter, you can top off each glass with club soda or sparkling water right before serving. That way, you keep the fizz fresh and it doesn’t go flat in the pitcher.

Tasting Notes

So, the first sip? It’s got this crisp, slightly tart thing going on from the cranberry juice. The vodka’s there too, but honestly, it just kind of smooths everything out instead of taking over.

There’s a gentle sweetness in this sangria, and it somehow plays nicely with all those citrus slices floating around. I have to say, the fresh fruit really takes the edge off the cranberry’s sharpness.

As I keep sipping, I notice these layers—bright cranberry, then zesty orange, and just a whisper of apple in the background. Every glass feels super refreshing, and, well, it’s dangerously easy to drink.

The texture’s smooth, almost silky, thanks to the chilled juice and fruit. That mix keeps it lively and cool, which I love.

I appreciate how the flavors don’t ever seem to get too heavy or tip into being overly sweet.

If I’m having it with food, I’ve found it pairs best with lighter snacks or maybe some salty appetizers. The tartness just cuts through anything rich and keeps my palate feeling fresh.