As temperatures rise and the sun beckons, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a refreshing beverage to savor the season’s delights. This summer, I’m diving into the world of wine spritzers, exploring the myriad of adaptations that bring a new twist to classic combinations. With a curated list of the top 5 concoctions awaiting my exploration, each recipe tailored to fill a pitcher’s worth, I’m eager to embark on this flavorful journey. While I’ve customized most recipes to suit my taste, I’ve also provided links to the original inspirations for those interested in exploring further.
Sangria
½ cup granulated sugar
½ Water
Pinch of sea salt
3 cups 100% pomegranate juice
¾ cups brandy
1 cored and sliced pear
1 sliced orange
1 sliced lime
½ cup pomegranate seeds
1 bottle Lambrusco (Or any Spanish wine to your preference)
Directions: Put all the fruit and sugar into the pitcher, and muddle it. Then add the juice and brandy, muddle again. Add the red wine and stir everything together. Change volumes to match your preferences and garnish with more fruit once it’s time to drink. (Makes 1 pitcher). Original recipe.
Prosecco Mint Julep
12 ounces of Bourbon or Gin
3 oz St Germain Liqueur
1 bottle Prosecco or Champagne
9 sprigs of mint
Directions: Mix together the bourbon, St. Germain and fresh mint in a pitcher. Add the bottle of Prosecco and some ice. Garnish with more mint. (Makes 1 pitcher). Original recipe.
Rose Lemonade
1 bottle of your favorite rose
¾ Raspberry Juice
¾ Limoncello Liqueur
2 slices lemons
2 cups of frozen raspberries (cheaper and act as ice!)
Directions: Fill the pitcher with your frozen fruit and lemon slices. Add the chilled juice and limoncello to the pitcher. Lastly, top it off with the bottle of rose. (Makes 1 pitcher). Original recipe.
Red Wine Mules
One bottle red blend wine
7oz vodka
Juice of 3 lime
2 can ginger beer
2 limes sliced in rounds
Directions: Muddle lime rounds in pitcher, mix in all the liquids, and pour! (Makes 1 pitcher). Original recipe.
Moscato Margaritas
4 cups frozen strawberries
9oz tequila
4oz triple sec
4oz lime juice
1 Tbsp. sugar
9oz Moscato wine
Directions: Add everything to a blender. To spice of your beverage, rim the glass with tajin using lime juice to stick it. (Makes 1 pitcher). Original recipe.
Bonus Tip:
The classic fruity-ice-bundt-pan-trick for your punch bowl! Maybe it’s not actually a classic, but it is to me. I have fond memories of when I was little, helping my mother create what seemed at the time like a potion for her friends. Into our big crystal punch bowl, we measured with our eyes some juices, wines, and liquors to create a beverage of the most beautiful color. Then to top it off, we adorned the drink with the crown of fruit ice and edible flowers that we had frozen earlier in the morning. It created a drink fit for the finest company (though of course, our company was actually just friends coming over for swimming and hotdogs!) Now that I am no longer a girl, I recreate this delightful warm weather beverage and indulge in what was once a forbidden potion.
I wish you the loveliest of sunny months and would love to hear which potions you tried out. Whether you opt for the fruity allure of Sangria, the refreshing kick of a Prosecco Mint Julep, or any of the other delightful options, may each sip transport you to a place of relaxation and joy. Let the flavors of summer mingle on your palate, and may the shared stories and experiences add richness to your days. Here’s to a summer filled with laughter, sunshine, and the simple pleasure of a perfectly crafted beverage. Cheers!
P.S. If you need a bottle of wine to try our one of these spritzers for summer, we can help find you one!