Pear Blackberry Sparkling Holiday Punch

I like a drink I can prepare ahead, because I would rather talk with my guests than shake cocktails all night. This punch gets its flavor from fruit and spices that steep overnight, so all I do at the party is add the bubbles. The deep purple color alone makes people smile when they see the bowl.

Saúl’s Tip

Pour the sparkling wine slowly down the side of the bowl or pitcher, and stir only once, gently. That way you keep the bubbles instead of whisking them away.

Tips for Success

• Crush some of the berries first. This gives the punch its deep purple color.
• Chill the sparkling wine before adding it.
• Add ice at the last minute so the punch is not watered down.
• Remove the cinnamon and star anise if you steep longer than 24 hours, since the flavor gets strong.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Keep the steeped fruit mixture covered in the fridge for up to 2 days. Once mixed with the wine, drink the punch the same day because it loses its fizz.

Variations

• Use frozen cranberries in place of some of the blackberries.
• Replace the vodka with a pear brandy.
• Float a few orange slices on top for color.
• No alcohol? Swap the pear vodka for the same amount of pear nectar and replace the prosecco with chilled sparkling apple cider or ginger ale.