Drink

New Year's Eve Champagne Sangria

Since my fiancee is the cook in the house and none of my meals or recipe ideas ever compare to his, I drink.  OK, so my mom doesn't freak out when she reads this, I guess I should rephrase that first line with...I get creative with my drinks.

  Since New Year's Eve is so close I figured I'd share with you what I will be drinking to ring in 2013.  I love Sangria and have experimented with all sorts of Sangria this past summer and fall. So to put a twist on something that I already love, I will be doing a Champagne Sangria this New Year's Eve. It's a very simple recipe with lots of flavor.  Below is everything you will need and makes about 2 liters...

2-3 apples, depending on size (your choice, I use Granny Smith because I love the flavor)
2-3 peaches, depending on size (the riper the better)
1 bottle of Martinelli's Sparkling Apple Cider
1 bottle of Almond Champagne (I will be using Almond Creek which can be found at Trader Joe's)
1/2 cup of Peach Schnapps or Peach Flavored Vodka (optional - but I guarantee it will get the party going a bit faster)
Dash of cinnamon (optional)

Slice up the fruit, add to the booze and let sit for 24 hours. If you are adding cinnamon, sprinkle it into the fruit infused alcohol and let it marinate. So that the champagne doesn't go too flat over night, you should let it soak with the fruit in a sealed jar or pitcher (don't worry if it does go a bit flat, you will be adding the sparkling cider immediately before serving anyway). Last, add the Martinelli's right before serving, stir and enjoy chilled!!


Happy 2013!!

Bubbly on a Budget
http://shine.yahoo.com/at-home/years-budget-10-bottles-bubbly-under-20-185000391.html