Sparkling Citrus Sangria

Sangria is the perfect drink for long afternoons around the barbecue with good friends. You can make it with white wine, rosé or the classic red — all work brilliantly, and the beauty of sangria is that it's almost impossible to get wrong. This sparkling citrus version is light, refreshing and goes down dangerously easily on a warm evening.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle (750ml) dry red wine, white wine, or rosé — your choice
• 60ml brandy or orange liqueur (Cointreau works beautifully)
• 2 tbsp caster sugar, or to taste
• 1 orange, sliced into rounds
• 1 lemon, sliced into rounds
• 1 lime, sliced into rounds
• Handful of fresh strawberries or other seasonal fruit, hulled and halved
• 250ml sparkling water or lemonade, chilled
• Plenty of ice to serve

Method

1. In a large jug or pitcher, combine the wine, brandy or orange liqueur, and caster sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the sliced citrus fruit and strawberries. Give everything a good stir so the fruit gets well coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours — overnight is even better. The longer it sits, the more the fruit flavours infuse into the wine.
4. When you're ready to serve, top up the jug with chilled sparkling water or lemonade and stir gently.
5. Pour over plenty of ice and serve immediately, making sure each glass gets a good share of the fruit.

Make it your own: Try peach and white wine for a lighter version, or add a cinnamon stick and apple slices for an autumn twist. A handful of fresh mint works wonderfully with rosé.

Originally published by Bull BBQ. Adapted for UK audiences by Cedar Kitchen in the Garden.