White Sangria

White Sangria from La Grande Orange

 

I absolutely love white sangria and have always wanted to make it, where to find that golden recipe was the question.  The LA Times ran this recipe in their food section just before Easter and I thought it was the perfect time to test it out.  I get my Pinto Grigio from Trader Joe's, there is a great bottle for $3.99  called Gaetano D'Aquino that I love (just call me Ramona from the Housewives of NYC).  If you don't have any Brandy sitting around at your house like me, go to your local liquor store and buy one little airplane size bottles, they measure out to exactly 1/4 C.  I never knew that?!  If you are worried about sugar then you can sub peach nectar to sweeten.  I find that the sugar really cuts the wine and brandy well, however.  Here is the recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 bottles pinot grigio or dry white wine
• 1 1/3 cup OJ
• 1/2 cup triple sec
• 1/4 cup brandy
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 1/2 orange sliced in one whole, thin slice (for looks)
• 1/2 lemon sliced the same way
• 1/2 apple sliced the same way
• large bunch grapes, stemmed and cut in half

In a large pitcher, whisk together the wine, OJ, triple sec and brandy.  Add the sugar and vanilla extract and continue to whisk until the sugar is completely dissolved. Add the sliced fruit.  Reserve some sliced fruit to put into each glass, the grapes will get icy and yummy.  Garnish with a slice of lemon or orange on the side of the glass.  You can even make this the day before you serve, just make sure to not add any ice to the pitcher as it will dilute it.  This is such a fabulous Spring/ Summer cocktail.  Be forewarned, it's very easy to drink!