Pomegranate Champagne Sangria

February 21, 2019

The Awards season never fails to get me giddy. They are the televised events that I look forward to the most in the new year, as it is the perfect excuse to turn it into a special day for us as well. A time to concoct a great cocktail and take a few moments to de-stress from whatever may have consumed our thoughts for the week and just hang out, cuddle, swoon over all the beautiful dresses, and nosh on delicious treats. The ultimate best recipe for a special relaxing weekend.

I like to celebrate each awards show with a signature cocktail as I find it helps to set the mood. The cocktail of choice I went with for the most recent Grammy awards was Champagne Sangria (yum!), a nod to one of the most memorable cocktails that we were introduced to over a decade ago in Spain. This time I switched it up a bit to pomegranate champagne sangria. The amber red tones from the pomegranate cordial are the perfect hue for this festive cocktail.

Here’s the recipe:

Ingredients

1 bottle of champagne of choice

½ cup brandy

1/2 cup Cointreau

1/3 cup Aperol (optional)

1/2 cup pomegranate juice

2 oz. agave (because I’m a fan of agave in lieu of simple syrup)

Sliced oranges, apples, strawberries, pears, and red raspberries

Directions

Stir all ingredients (except the champagne) in a pitcher without ice. Transfer to the refrigerator and allow flavors to meld together for at least 2 hours.

Add champagne just before serving. Stir gently to mix. Serve in ice-filled glasses, garnished with a slice of orange or strawberry.

* Recipe serves 8-10 but can easily be halved for 4 servings.

Personally, I feel if you want to experience the true enjoyment and full impact of a drink, the proper glassware is necessary. I guess that’s the Dorit in me. Hahaha!