Liven up that boring glass of red wine with a killer sangria. (Think of it as an alcoholic fruit cup).

Good sangria is not to be confused with the mouth-puckering red wine and chopped fruit concoction you get at art galleries and office parties. At its best, sangria is a perfect balance of inexpensive -- but drinkable -- dry red wine, fruity liqueur, brandy, juice, sliced fruit, and soda (if you like bubbles). If you're looking for a refreshing cocktail recipe, follow these simple steps.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle dry red wine (zinfandel or tempranillo)
  
• 2 Tbl. brandy
  
• 1 Tbl. curacao
  
• 3/4 cup orange juice
  
• 4 Tbl. lemon juice
  
• Ice
  
• Club soda (optional)
  
• Superfine sugar (optional)
  
• Lemons and oranges, sliced into half-moons

Directions
Chill all ingredients. Combine red wine, brandy, curacao, and juice in a large pitcher. Add sweetened juice to the wine mixture and stir until thoroughly blended. Refrigerate sangria until chilled, about 20 minutes. Serve with a splash of club soda and garnish with fruit slices.

-- The Nest Editors

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