Shifting Seasons with White Sangria

As autumn settles in, a little spice can go a long way. The comforting scents of warming spices help ease the shift from summer's brightness to the cool, early dusks of fall. A pumpkin candle flickering, a sprinkle of cinnamon in your morning coffee — small alterations that welcome the season's slower pace. That's why fall sangrias are my go-to festive drink, especially for those who prefer to skip the darker spirits that dominate many autumnal libations. But with sliced seasonal fruit, cinnamon sticks and maybe a chunky knit blanket, a simple bottle of Pinot Grigio transforms into a delectable fall drink to sip and savor. Best of all, it's an easy batch cocktail perfect for cozy gatherings and stress-free hosting. Fall Sangria Adapted from theforkedspoon.com Ingredients: 2 apples, cored and thinly sliced 2 pears, cored and thinly sliced 1 cup cranberries 1 bottle white wine (Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay) 1 (12 oz) bottle hard apple cider 1 cup pear liqueur (optional, or substitute for apple liqueur or apple or pear brandy) 2-3 cinnamon sticks Ice Instructions: Gather your ingredients and a large pitcher. Chop fruit and transfer to pitcher before adding alcohol and cinnamon sticks. Stir well and refrigerate for one hour to chill. Add ice, spoon in fruit and fill glasses with sangria. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary, star anise or a brown sugar and cinnamon rim if desired.