This Fruity Sauvignon Blanc Cocktail Only Needs One Seasonal Mixer

When you think of fall drinks, one in particular may come to mind (looking at you, pumpkin spice). But really, a multitude of autumnal beverages embrace the season — day or night. Specifically, if you're seeking a cocktail to make for cozy autumn gatherings, look no further than sauvignon blanc combined with one classic seasonal mixer: Apple soda. Whether from a bottle or can, apple soda is the perfect sweet and seasonally fruity complement to the bright, slightly herbaceous, acidic white wine. When combined, the result is a pleasantly fruity sip to add to any list of fall cocktails. 

To make an apple-soda wine cocktail at home, combine sauvignon blanc with apple soda in a tall or balloon glass and served chilled or over ice. If you don't already have a favorite sauvignon blanc, read our round up of 10 of the best sauvignon blancs for beginners for tips. Do play around with the ratios of each beverage, too. For a more wine-forward drink, add just a splash of apple soda. For a cocktail that elicits the fall season, fill as much as one-third of the glass with apple soda. 

Beyond the hints of fall in every sip, another thing that makes this cocktail especially memorable (and drinkable) is the fizz from the carbonated apple soda. So, as to not disturb the celebratory bubbles that carbonated apple soda brings, when combining the white wine, apple soda, and ice, stir it all together with a bar spoon to gently incorporate. 

One of the best things about making cocktails at home is that they are a blank canvas for creativity. An apple-flavored sauvignon blanc cocktail is no different. Use your favorite store-bought apple soda, or, for an extra special twist, make your own apple soda by mixing together apple juice or syrup and club soda. Either way, add a touch of citrus like lemon peel for brightness and garnish with apple slices. For more spiced notes to chime with the season, top the mixed drink with a sprinkle of cinnamon, or stir the spice right in. Another fun touch is to add a dash or two of autumnal all-spice bitters. 

If you don't have apple soda on hand, no worries. You can also make the fall-inspired cocktail by mixing apple cider with white wine. Of course, if you want to impart that sparkling essence to the drink, you can use a sparkling sauvignon blanc. While the vast majority of SBs are not sparkling, there are a few that have a light fizz. But you can also use another form of sparkling wine like Champagne, Prosecco, or crémant. Or you can even substitute other light-tasting white wine grape varieties similar to sauvignon blanc, such as pinot grigio or floral and zesty torrontés.