Springtime Sangría

Sangría is a delightful quaff for a warm, spring get-together.  Served throughout Spain and Portugal, this alcoholic punch infuses bright, sunny fruit flavors into any convivial gathering.  While variations seem endless, personal preferences—fruit, wine, brandy, soda, and such—prevail ultimately.  Nevertheless, if you're seeking a superb springtime sangría suggestion, try the following refreshing recipe from my friend Darrin Siegfried:

• 2 bottles (750 ml) Bouchard Beaujolais Nouveau
• 4 ounces brandy, Port, or vodka, or to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 orange
• ¼ cup superfine sugar, or more to taste
  (NB Don't use confectioners' sugar—it contains cornstarch that will render the drink cloudy)
• 16 ounces seltzer or club soda
• Ice cubes
• Thin slices of lemon & orange, halved, with extra for garnish
• Fresh mint sprigs, for garnish

In a large pitcher, combine all of the ingredients except the garnishes; stir well.  Serve in wine glasses (an attractive way to control portions!) and garnish with the fruit and mint.

Yield:  Approximately 2 quarts.
Calories:  Approximately 210 per 8-ounce serving.

Comments

[Comestiblog]

Welcome! I'm proud to have you as a subscriber, C.J. Thanks so much for your kind comment.

[FoodStoriesBlog]

Thx for connecting with me on foodbuzz. I just subscribed to your blog feed and can't wait to see what your next post will be!

[Comestiblog]

Thanks for noting the inclusion of Beaujolais Nouveau. Not only is it difficult to find stateside this time of year, it cannot be sold in France (by law) after January. But, take heart—an ordinary Beaujolais makes a good alternative.

[Pascal's]

Refreshing recipe - Is it a typo or your friend really uses B.Nouveau??