Sparkling Apple Cider Sangria

Great to serve at Thanksgiving. Notes from the chef: Cave or Prosecco is great for the bubbly. The VS cognac compliments the apples with its notes of caramel and vanilla, and it makes your cider into a cocktail suited for the adults at your gathering. This sangria skips the sugar because the apple cider is sweet enough. Slice the apples into matchsticks rather than the cubes for a more traditional rustic sangria, and then I added some pomegranate seeds for a stunning presentation and a nice touch of tartness. The recipe looks sophisticated but it's simple, and that's something we can all be grateful for with the endless to do list during the holidays. Source: http://www.thekitchn.com/

• Ready In: 20 mins
• Serves: 8
• Yields: 8 cocktails

Ingredients

• 2  apples, peeled, cored and thinly sliced into matchsticks
• 1⁄2 cup cognac
• 3  cups apple cider, chilled
• 1 (750 ml) bottle  dry  sparkling white wine, chilled
• 1⁄4 cup pomegranate seeds

Directions

1. Add the apples to a large pitcher reserving about 1/2 cup for garnishing. Add the cognac, apple cider, and chilled cava. Stir.
2. Fill the pitcher with ice. Pour the sangria into glasses filled with ice and top with sliced apple and pomegranate seeds.