A refreshing spin on traditional sangria brings the sweet taste of spiced pears to this elegant cocktail.
This easy-to-make drink combines white wine, pear nectar, and warm spices for a perfect autumn or winter gathering.
The recipe takes only 10 minutes to prepare and serves 6-8 people.
Fresh pear slices and cinnamon sticks add a beautiful garnish that makes this drink look as good as it tastes.
Guests will enjoy the blend of crisp wine notes with subtle hints of cardamom, star anise, and vanilla.
The drink can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours, letting the flavors mix together perfectly.
Spiced Pear Sangria Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Wooden spoon for mixing
- Wine glasses for serving
Ingredients
- 2 bottles dry white wine Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
- 3 ripe pears thinly sliced
- 1 cup pear brandy
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 whole star anise
- 1 vanilla bean split
- 2 cups club soda
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
- Ice cubes for serving
Instructions
- Slice the pears into thin wedges, leaving the skin on for color.
- Add the sliced pears, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and split vanilla bean to a large pitcher.
- Pour in the white wine and pear brandy. Stir in the honey until dissolved.
- Place the pitcher in the refrigerator for 4-6 hours to let the flavors blend.
- Just before serving, add the club soda and stir gently.
- Serve in wine glasses filled with ice. Add a few pear slices and a sprig of thyme to each glass.
Notes
Tasting Notes
The Spiced Pear Sangria combines sweet and warming flavors. Fresh pear juice adds natural sweetness, while cinnamon and star anise create gentle spice notes.
White wine brings crisp acidity and subtle fruit flavors. The blend tastes light and refreshing despite its rich spices.
Key flavor elements:
- Sweet pear
- Warm cinnamon
- Star anise spice
- Crisp white wine
- Light citrus notes
The drink starts sweet on the front of the tongue. Spice flavors develop in the middle, followed by a clean, wine-focused finish.
When served chilled, the cocktail remains bright and easy to drink. The spices become more noticeable as it warms slightly in the glass.
The fruit garnishes add visual appeal and extra flavor. Floating pear slices release more fruit essence while drinking. Fresh citrus wedges provide a tart accent when squeezed.
For the best taste experience, serve at 45-50°F (7-10°C). This temperature range keeps the wine crisp while allowing the spice flavors to shine through.
Substitute
You can swap ingredients in this spiced pear sangria recipe to match your taste or what you have on hand.
Replace pear nectar with apple juice or white grape juice for a different fruity base. White wine works best, but you can use rosé wine instead.
Main ingredient swaps:
- Fresh pears → Apples or Asian pears
- Cinnamon sticks → 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- Star anise → Skip or use 1/4 tsp fennel seeds
- Honey → Agave nectar or simple syrup
For a non-alcoholic version, use sparkling apple cider or pear cider instead of wine. Add extra club soda for fizz.
Pro tip: Let the mixture sit for 4-8 hours with any substitute fruits to get the best flavor. The spices need time to blend with the new ingredients.
A splash of pear brandy can replace regular brandy. To make it less sweet, cut the amount of juice or honey in half.
