Sangria

Photographer: Kate
Serves 6

Sangria is my summertime ode to the red wine which I admit I have a little love affair with. On a cold winters night, I just love to snuggle up in front of the fire and slowly sip on a lovely glass of Pinot Noir and get lost in the flickering light.

Right now, however,  the days are hot and golden and the sun is shines well into the evening, requiring cool refreshment.  Sangria is the same old friend dressed to impress in all the delicious fruits that flourish in these long hot summer days.  It’s important to breath some new energy into any relationship and in this case there is nothing like an injection of summertime deliciousness to keep the love alive. Sip slowly, then grab a fork and snack away on that delicious boozy fruit….sweet summer romance.

INGREDIENTS


1 bottle dry red wine (I used grenache)
1 tablespoon sugar
1/4 cup brandy
1/4 cup Triple sec or another orange liqueur
1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
Sliced peaches, nectarines, apples and oranges , tossed with a squeeze of lemon juice
Cherries
Cinnamon Stick (optional)
Star anise (optional)
Sparkling water or orange San Pellegrino

METHOD


1. Mix the wine, sugar, brandy, liqueur and orange juice in a large pitcher.
2. Add fruit and spices (if using) and chill in the fridge until needed.
3. Garnish glasses with extra fruit if desired.
4. Pour into glasses to serve and use a slotted spoon to add fruit
5. Top up glass with sparkling water or San Pellegrino (if using) right before serving.