Slammin' Summer Sangria

Looking for a summer alcoholic drink however not a wine drinker? Sangria is the common selection among many consumers for those hot summer nights under the shining moonlight. It is the "fruit punch" that comes from Spain and Portugal however is a wonderful alcoholic drink that is not too overpowering and perfect to quench those sweet taste buds.

Beginning in Spain and Portugal, this common wine blend has been known throughout the years as an ethnic drink, instead of a wine. In fact, still today a common tourist slogan for England and India is "Sun, Sea, Sex and Sangria". Sangria is not 100% wine, rather a punch blended with wine and other seasonal fruit. It is very commonly known as a party drink in Europe however is not something that a person would order from a bar. It is strictly a party drink; therefore it is perfect for the hot summer months.

For hundreds of years, Sangria was a popular drink in Spain and Portugal. It has evolved from being a basic blend of brandy and fruit to a blend of brandy, usually a cheap wine and a variety of mixed fruit. The best part, it can be purchased in the store already mixed. If you are into cooking though, try mixing your own amounts of brandy, wine and various fruits in the blender. Personally, for under $10.00, I prefer to purchase this Glunz Family Cellar's brand of Sangria and not worry with the blender. Let's face it, the summer is hot and no one wants to be in the kitchen mixing drinks during a party.

The first impression of Glunz Sangria is the choice of wine bottle. It is much like my idea of a homemade wine. It has a glass bottle with a cap that plastic stopper lid that is connected to the bottle with metal straps. It is a bottle that can be used over and over again in the kitchen - therefore it is eco-friendly right?