Basil Red Sangria

Basil Red Sangria

On an especially hot day, whip up a batch of this refreshing cold cocktail to sip in the summer sun! The basil helps to flavor the sangria, without being too overpowering. Don’t have Syrah on hand? Substitute your favorite fruity red wine for it instead! This can also be pretty tasty as a white Sangria too!  Try using fresh summertime peaches and apricotsfor a less tannic drink.

• 2 Bottles Syrah
• 2 Granny SmMith Apples
• 2 Gala Apples
• 2 Navel Oranges
• 1 Bunch Fresh Basil
• 1 quart Apple Juice (unsweetened)
• 1 quart White Grape Juice
• 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar

1. Chop the apples, reserving the cores.  Slice oranges thinly, reserving the ends with apple cores.
2. In a small pot, combine apple cores, orange ends, 1/2 the basil, sugar, and 1 cup of each of the juices.  Heat to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.  Strain syrup and reserve.
3. While syrup is cooking, in a carafe/pitcher, combine the wine, apples, orange slices, and remaining basil.  Stir in remaining juices and syrup, stirring well to combine.
4. Store in refrigerator until ready to serve. (it’s best when it has had at least 24 hours for flavors to meld well before serving)