Sangria

Summertime is the perfect time for Sangria!  This sangria is great because it's just the right amount of sweet but not too sweet!  I like to use a Spanish rioja for my sangria but, by all means, buy something affordable.  A red zinfandel would work well too!  There is a lot of other stuff added so it will hardly be bad no matter what kind of wine you use!

Sangria (adapted from foodnetwork.com)

2 bottles red wine (such as rioja)
1 c. brandy or cognac
1/2 c. triple sec (or other orange flavored liquer)
1 c. orange juice
1 c. pomegranate juice
1/2 c. simple syrup, cooled (1/4 c. water + 1/4 c. sugar melted together over medium heat until the sugar dissolves)
Orange slices 
Blackberries
Apple slices
Club soda or tonic water (if desired)

Mix all ingredients together in a large pitcher at least 24 hours before you want to serve.  Serve over ice with a splash of club soda or tonic water to add a little fizz, if desired.  

12 servings (228 calories each serving) according to my calculator on loseit.com