Blackberry-Peach Sangria

Blackberry Peach SangriaSangria has some deep roots in Europe.  Wine was known to be spiced with cinnamon and ginger.  Wines would often be made from many different berries and fruits.  Water was not safe to drink until modern times, so naturally the only safe thing to drink was wine and beer.  Sangria as we know it has roots from Spain and was first introduced to America at the 1964 World’s Trades Fair.  These sangrias usually used a “claret” or “bordeaux” wine, some fruit and brandy for flavor.

Sangria has become such a big hit and a staple to serve at parties.  There are many blush, white and red sangria varieties with numerous flavor combinations.  This recipe is a red wine type.  To get the best possible flavor, make sangrias the night before as they are at its best when marinated.

Blackberry-Peach Sangria

1 btl (750 ml) red wine

1 C  peach puree

½ C brandy

½ C  Blackberry syrup

1 C  fresh blackberries

fresh peaches for garnish (optional)

Directions:

  1. Combine all ingredients and stir.
  2. Marinate over night or minimum of four hours.
  3. Shake before serving and serve over ice.

Gift of Giving (Home/Family Series Part 2)

New Homeowners or The Newlyweds

There is nothing like owning a home or being married for the first time.  For these couples, try etching your own wine glasses with a custom made stencils.  They are super easy do.   Finding or making your own stencil will be the hardest part.  You can always do a monogram for these couples.

You can make scented candles, all items can be easily found at Michaels.  You can even add scented oils for bigger touch.

If you’re not feeling crafty, you can find custom made wine glasses online from several different stores.