Summer's Sangria

Sangria, how I have loved you. To me, you are akin to Summer - the sun, blue sky, fresh air, green grass, sun kissed skin, summer dresses, bbq's and movie nights - everything stirs from its slumber and comes to life when the sun is out. Red wine is also reminiscent of relaxed nights and easy conversations - so red wine mixed with Summer equals a very beautiful Sangria.

                               

Ingredients:

3 tbsp caster sugar
2 tbsp lemon juice (juice from the fruit)
2 tbsp orange juice
2 bottles red wine (Lambrusco is good)
1L lemonade
4 tbsp gin
4 tbsp vodka
1 cinnamon stick
1 green apple, diced
1/2 lemon, quartered
1/2 orange, quartered
1 lime, quartered
Ice cubes

Method:

1. Combine the caster sugar, lemon juice and orange juice into small bowl and stir until sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the red wine, lemonade, gin, vodka and cinnamon stick.
3. Up to half an hour before serving, add the cut up fruit and ice. To garnish, place a slice of orange, lemon and lime onto the rim of the jug. It just adds that little bit of 'wow!' for your guests.

This recipe is from 'Kitchen Journal' by Murdoch Books, 2009