Berry Sangria

When it comes to Summer entertaining, my go to beverage is sangria. It's easy to make a large batch and must be put together in advance. It's a wine-based punch, making it lower in alcohol than its spirit counterparts and it has a fruity profile, meaning that most people will enjoy a glass or two.

I believe a hostess can never have too many sangria recipes and this is my current fav. It's a mixture of berries, Rosé, and black currant liqueur. The recipe, which comes from Mariena Mercer of The Cosmopolitan in Vegas, calls for soda water to add effervescence. However, I used sparkling Rosé instead. This sangria is better the longer it steeps, so get started now!

I've never met a sangria I didn't like, and this blushing variation with Rosé and raspberries is absolutely delightful. It's the ideal sort of drink to enjoy with salty nibbles while watching a late Summer sunset. Some tips: Be sure to make in advance, as this will give the ingredients time to meld. Don't skip the creme de cassis; it really develops the flavor of the berries and Rosé. Ask your local wine shop owner for the driest Rosé, otherwise the sangria will end up too sweet. You'll love sipping this pretty pink concoction, so get the recipe after the jump.