Sparkling Ginger & Apple Cider Sangria

My friend was having a 40th birthday party for his husband. Of course, I jumped at the opportunity to bring some food and also offered to make some sangria since she was doing a taco bar for dinner.

I started grabbing the supplies that I use to make sangria ... they always have to have brandy and triple sec. I quickly realized the only juice that I had in the house was the apple cider that I made earlier in the week. I contemplated changing it up though ... using apple cider wouldn't be very Mexican, but it is the fall season and who can say no to fresh apple cider (and brandy)?!?

So, I switched gears and went with the apple cider. I switched out the triple sec for ginger beer to give it a little more fall flavor. You could use ginger ale but ginger beer gives it much more of a gingery zing which in my book is the best!

Sparkling Ginger & Apple Cider Sangria

1 bottle white wine, I prefer chardonnay but use what you love
2 c fresh apple cider
12 oz ginger beer
1/2 c ginger brandy
2 apples, cut in chunks
2 pears, cut in chunks
2 cinnamon sticks

Put all ingredients in a container. Mix it up well to let the cinnamon release some flavor. Let sit for an hour before serving.