Star Spangled Sangria and Spritzer

When it comes to cocktails for a party, there just might be no easier or more crowd-pleasing option than great sangria. This version incorporates a tiny bit of cinnamon to get your guests asking "hmmm, what's that?" and lemon juice for balance. Red, white, and blue fruits make it patriotic and perfect for Memorial Day.

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Notice, I said there's nothing better than GREAT sangria. I've had some doozies... overly sweet, laden with fruit juice and perfect for, well, not much other than giving you a wicked hangover. THIS sangria, however, is nothing like those. It's balanced with fresh lemon and raw honey. It's subtly herbal from the addition of basil. It's just so, so good.

1 bottle Pinot Grigio

1/2 C Brandy

1/4 tsp Cinnamon

1/4 C Honey

1/4 C Lemon juice

1 sprig Basil

1/2 Lb Strawberries, quartered

1/2 pint blueberries

1/2 Red delicious apple, cubed

La Croix or club soda (optional)

In a glass pitcher, add the strawberries, blueberries, and apples.

Stir together the brandy, honey, cinnamon, and lemon juice in a cocktail mixing glass or measuring cup until the honey is dissolved. Pour the mixture over the fruit. Pour the wine into the pitcher with the fruit and brandy mixture. Stir to combine. Add 1-2 sprigs of basil and refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight. Serve over ice, with a sprig of basil for garnish. Mix half-and half with a little club soda or La Croix to turn it into a spritzer if you want something a little lighter!