Sangria and Summer Solstice!

By Tuscan Gourmet

With today being the beginning of Summer and the longest day of the year don’t forget the Sangria!  Seems like everywhere I look I’m seeing tempting margarita photos and mouthwatering recipes. I’d like to give a shout out to Josè Andrès, White Wine Sangria.  Chef Andrès is famous for introducing “small plates” dining to the US.  He owns several restaurants in the Washington, DC area, Beverly Hills, South Beach, and Las Vegas.

White Wine Sangria
1 cup chopped mixed fresh fruits: strawberries, peaches, white grapes
1 bottle of Spanish cava or other dry sparkling wine
¼ cup brandy
¼ cup white grape juice
¼ cup Licor 43 or any vanilla flavored liqueur
1 teaspoons sugar
1 small fresh mint sprig

Fill a glass pitcher halfway with ice and add the chopped fruits. Tilt the pitcher and pour the cava very slowly down the side; this will help retain the bubbles. In another pitcher or bowl with spout, combine the brandy, Licor 43, white grape juice, and sugar, then pour the mixture into the sparkling wine and fruit. Give a quick stir and add the mint sprig. When serving, make sure each glass gets some ice and fruits.

This white sparkling wine sangria is the perfect drink to have with a simple chorizo and mussel’s paella dish.

Recipe courtesy Chef Josè Andrès Spanish cookbook MADE IN SPAIN