Classic Red Sangria

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle of red wine (Spanish wine like Tempranillo or Garnacha works well)
• 1/4 cup brandy
• 1/4 cup orange liqueur (like Triple Sec or Cointreau)
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1 orange, thinly sliced
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 1 lime, thinly sliced
• 1 apple, cored and chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh berries (like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
• 1-2 cups soda water or lemon-lime soda
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fruit: In a large pitcher, combine the orange, lemon, lime slices, chopped apple, and berries.
2. Mix the Liquids: Pour in the wine, brandy, orange liqueur, and orange juice. Add the simple syrup to sweeten, adjusting to your taste.
3. Chill: Stir the mixture well and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavours to meld.
4. Serve: Just before serving, add the soda water or lemon-lime soda to the pitcher. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish and Enjoy: Fill glasses with ice cubes, pour the sangria over the ice, ensuring some fruit pieces are included in each glass. Garnish with extra fruit slices if desired.

For a different twist, consider using white wine or rosé for a lighter version, and experiment with seasonal fruits like peaches or pomegranates for a unique flavour profile.