Sangria

While in Florida, we went to Celebration!  Have you heard of it?
Celebration is located near Walt Disney World Resort and originally developed by The Walt Disney Company.  Celebration's population is 7,427.  Response to Celebration has ranged from an early visitor who said it resembled the too-perfect town of The Stepford Wives, to those who see Celebration as a return to small-town values with walkable and safe communities.  The town is charming, clean, fun and refreshing.  Cute shops, nice restaurants and a very walkable place to spend some time.



So when we decided to take a drive to check it out, my brother recommended that we stop by the Columbia Restaurant for a pitcher of Sangria.  So, that we did.
First we stopped by the Farmers Market and brought home a few quarts of these!

Of course, we had to make strawberry shortcake and yes, it was delicious.

Now onto the Sangria.  It was fabulous.  They make it at your table.
I was able to secure the recipe....sneaky me!
Simple Syrup
Torres Brandy
Three orange quarters, squeezed and dropped into pitcher
Two lime quarters, squeezed and dropped into pitcher
Muddle together.
Add 1/2 bottle of Torres Sangre de Toro Red Wine from Spain
Add ice cubes and stir. Pour into glasses with fruit garnish.

See the wooden spoon in the pitcher!

Richard is holding a little black bull. It was on the rim of the bottle...a little souvenir.



You can purchase the brandy and wine at Total Wine (if you have one in your area).

Great store!

They have a great selection of Prosecco's also.

If you prefer, you can order a pitcher of sparkly white sangria. That is made table side as well. Same ingredients, simple syrup, fruit and juices, except use these three items:
Jaume Serra Cristalino Spanish Cava
Torres Brandy
Torres Orange Liquer

We brought home the wine and brandy so we will sure make us a pitcher soon.

If you are not familiar with simple syrup, it is just equal parts of sugar and water mixed and boiled on the stove. Bring to a boil for just not more than a minute. You just want the sugar to dissolve. Cool and refrigerate. It keeps a long time if refrigerated. Use in mojitos also.

So, cheers!  Let me know if you make a pitcher (or two).  If you are in Orlando or on the Gulf side of Florida, check out Columbia Restaurant - great cuban food.