A dear friend of mine always celebrates summer with a special house cocktail. The summer of her engagement was all about sangria, then she moved on to the mojito - when it first came on the scene. Last summer she described to me a combination of muddled strawberries and sugar mixed with vodka and topped with sparkling wine.
While I admire her devotion - and creativity - I've never remained faithful to one libation for any length of time. There are certain times when only a gin and tonic, zippy with lime, will do. I've experimented with peaches, brandy and Other situations require champagne and some parties are only complete with a cool pitcher of spiced, spiked lemonade.
However, this summer I've been returning to a particular refreshment - the tinto de veranzo - with regularity. I first discovered this aptly named summer wine in Heidi Swanson's superlative new book, Super Natural Every Day.
And let me tell you something, it is delicious, refreshing, delightful. Go to Trader Joe's and pick up a cheap bottle of Spanish wine (I've been experimenting with Temperanillo, but I must be honest and confess that I know very little about wine in general and nothing at all about Spanish wine). Add to your basket a few bottles of their sparkling French lemonade. Pour first one and then the other into a short glass filled with ice. Enjoy.
All summer long.
* I have enjoyed reading, admiring and cooking from Super Natural Every Day. Based on the photographs alone, the book is gorgeous. Her writing is clear, but with a friendly tone. The recipes use healthful ingredients in imaginative, delicious combinations. The result is nourishing food that I crave and that my body appreciates.
Yeay! A new post! This is the way to start the day!
Posted by: Edub | July 06, 2011 at 09:08 AM
Yum!
Posted by: nectaryne | July 07, 2011 at 10:46 PM