Summertime Sangria

Combine wine and orange juice in a large bowl. In a small bowl, combine sugar or simple syrup and cinnamon, then add that mixture to the wine. Splash in the good stuff. Stir, and taste. Since you’ll be adding 7-Up and fruit later, it should be a bit more intense and slightly less sweet than you’d expect the final version to be, but the flavor should be in the general area of greatness. Allow flavors to blend for at least an hour. If not serving the same night, transfer to an airtight container and keep in the fridge.

Just before serving, add the fresh fruit and 7-Up, using as much soda as you like to lighten it up for your guests. Don’t add ice to the sangria itself, or it will get diluted quickly. Instead, add ice to the glasses and pour the sangria over, making sure to include some fruit in each serving.

Note: Simple syrup is equal parts water and sugar, boiled together for a few minutes and then cooled. A great way to sweeten cocktails, because it doesn’t leave any “grit” from the sugar in the drinks.