Sangria for Summer Reading

sangriaI often like to enjoy a glass of red wine with my evening reading, so what could be more natural than having sangria in summer? Now, I know that there are plenty of white-wine variations out there, but I think a sweet, fruity red-wine punch is just as refreshing, and all the citrus fruit totally makes it seasonally appropriate. My recipe is based on Allrecipe’s Sangria by the Pros, except that I double the liquids because my friends are thirsty boozehounds. If you’re making it for a party, I definitely suggest you make a double batch! If you’re just enjoying a quiet book night in the backyard, a single batch is probably fine (but hey, I’m not here to judge).

WARNING: Excessive sangria consumption may lead to uncontrolled weeping onto your YA novel.

Steph’s Special Sangria

Makes 6 servings

To make a double batch, double the liquid, but not the fruit.

INGREDIENTS:

1 orange
1 lemon
1 lime
1 medium all-purpose apple, pared, cored and sliced
1 cup pitted cherries
1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
3/4 cup brandy
1 (750 milliliter) bottle dry red wine
1 (12 ounce) can lemon-lime soda
1 cup orange juice (or to taste)

DIRECTIONS:

1. Slice the orange, lemon, and lime into thin rounds. Place the citrus in a pitcher with the apples, cherries, and pineapple. Pour in the brandy and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Chill the red wine, lemon-lime soda, and orange juice at the same time.

2. Gently crush the fruits with a spoon, then stir in the wine, soda, and orange juice. Add additional brandy or orange juice to taste.

Stephanie Perry
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