Mainely Martha

A bottle of red, a bottle of white…it’s sangria season! Even wine loves summer; the addition of fresh ripe fruits and served over ice…mmm. It is so easy to make in large batches to serve a crowd at your summer cookouts and parties. And it is probably the only time it is socially acceptable to drink wine from a straw.

Memorial Day weekend is upon us and the official kick-off to the cookout season. But, just because a cookout can be a bit more casual than your winter get-togethers, don’t start slacking…you should still have a signature drink for the event. And what better way to go than with a bright sangria or two. In fact, when kicking back and taking a  break from things, the hardest decision really should be red or white.

There are an abundance of recipes out there, but it is so easy to come up your own by simply taking advantage of the fruits and herbs that are in abundance this time of year. And even while scanning recipes for ideas, like all recipes, don’t be afraid to test out variations. My favorite red wine sangria (recipe available in the cocktail section) was simply concocted by looking at some recipes and knowing more of what I did not want to add more so than what I did. The mix of berries with red wine married with the citrus adds to the depth of flavor. While using fruit like peaches to compliment the white wine is light and refreshing burst of summer. And not a fan of simple syrup for example, means it is not included in most recipes; between the fruit and Cointreau, do you really need sugar? Hey, maybe you do…it is all to taste.

Summer is in the air and in my pitcher so let the fun begin…cheers!