Peaches are in season!! It’s a glorious time of year, the weather is ripe for outdoor activities, and it’s important to stay hydrated. I can’t think of a better refreshment than peach sangria! Originating in Spain, sangria was originally made with red wine, brandy, and fruit. But we should never limit ourselves to just one kind of wine.

White wines pair well with peaches, are lighter and statistically more popular. The best wine to use is one that you already like, however this is not the time to break the budget on an expensive bottle of wine since it will be mixed with fruit and soda or seltzer water. A less expensive bottle will work just fine. Which also makes this an economical addition to any party or event.

You can make this more boozy or less boozy, depending on your preference. A peach simple syrup can be made and substituted for the peach brandy or peach schnapps without sacrificing an ounce of flavor. It can also be toned down with addition of juice and/or seltzer water.

Simple syrup: 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water cooked until sugar is dissolved. That’s why they call it simple. To zhuzh it up a bit, add 1 peach, peeled and cut into small pieces. Bring to a boil and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes to allow the peach to really infuse the syrup. Let it cool then strain the peaches from the syrup. Any fruit can be used, so feel free to get creative with other flavors of sangria.

Sangria:

• 1 bottle white wine 750 ml
• 2 cups orange juice
• 1 cup of peach simple syrup (from above) or substitute with 1 cup of peach schnapps or peach brandy
• 1 cup triple sec or orange flavored liquor
• 1 cup of seltzer water or citrus flavored soda
• 5 peaches, sliced
• 2 oranges, sliced
• 1 lemon sliced

Combine all ingredients except fruit and the carbonated beverage in a large pitcher and stir. This needs to sit for at least 2 hours, but 4 hours is better. It can be made the day before as well. Add the fruit and seltzer just before serving. Serve over ice.

Tip: Cut up some additional fruit, freeze in a single layer, and use in place of some of the ice to prevent diluting your delicious sangria.