Tuesday, June 5, 2012

It’s raining: Bring on the summery cocktails and spiked sorbet


“It’s raining, it’s pouring, the old man is snoring…” I’ve had that damn song stuck in my head ALL DAY LONG and the only song I can think of to replace it with is It’s a Small World. Say it with me: UGH.

The reason for the song is that it actually is raining here in sunny California. And what do I have for you today? Summer cocktails and boozy sorbet! Rain, schmain.


As I’m sure you know by now, it’s always cocktail time in my book, but this cocktail came about because I hate to pour wine out, even if it’s not a 90-plus point award winner. And after our at-home wine tasting this weekend, we had several bottles of various cabs open that didn’t quite bowl us over. Nothing a little repurposing couldn’t help…

This sangria is easy to sip and makes a perfect afternoon refresher. And it’s a great way to use up any red wine that isn’t quite up to snuff.


Strawberry-Watermelon Red Wine Sangria

Serves 6

1 1/2 cups cabernet sauvignon (I used one on the sweeter side)
2 cups strawberry-watermelon sparkling water
1/4 cup strawberry vodka
1 tablespoon lemon juice
chopped strawberries and watermelon (optional)

Stir all ingredients together lightly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Serve over ice, with chopped fruit, if desired.


Have enough of these and you won’t care what song you’re singing on repeat, even if it is It’s a Small World. (And I apologize for putting that awful song in your head...)

Now, onto the frozen cocktails!


Turning fresh fruit sorbet into your favorite happy hour drink is a snap. Of course, these don’t pack quite the punch of a real cocktail, but the essence is there. For a refreshing summery dessert, try Watermelon Margarita Sorbet, Mango Mojito Sorbet or Kiwi Colada Sorbet.  Check out my recipes here.

13 comments:

  1. While I welcome the relief from the pollen, I am ready for some sunshine!

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  2. Mmmm, I love me some Sangria, but I certainly never had it with watermelon. What a delicious idea!
    (And sorry for the long absence, I was traveling/graduating)

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  3. bring in the summery cocktails oh yeah...i would like to have a glass of sangria right now. the sweetness of watermelon will definitely give this sangria a "summery" touch! cheers!
    malou

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  4. Oh my gosh! I want a big ole glug of this!

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  5. Wow this is perfect for summer! I love any type of sangria. Def have to try this.

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  6. It's crazy hot here too, I need a glass and bowl of these! Looks so good.

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  7. You make the best cocktails, girl. I wish you lived around the corner!

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  8. Everything looks so delicious, beautiful and refreshing!

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  9. BEAUTIFUL PHOTO STYLINGS!!! And love the idea of spiked sorbet.

    But I have that song with the "It Never Rains in Southern California" lyrics in my head

    Dave
    Thanks for sharing

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  10. I love the way you've presented these delicious cocktails! So pretty and so refreshing! :)

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  11. Thank you for sharing your delicious sangria on RecipeNewZ! It has been very popular with our visitors, so we featured it on our Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/RecipeNewZ. Congratulations and have a wonderful weekend! Cheers :-)

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  12. I never thought of having watermelon in sangria before! This idea is perfect!

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  13. Karen, I have what may seem a strange question, but here goes! I've been trying to find glasses like the ones you are using in these photos for ages. When my husband and I were married, he already had them but doesn't remember a brand or where they were purchased. If you remember where you got the glasses or the brand name, I'd really appreciate it if you'd let me know. Thanks in advance! My email is: cjvierow at msn dot com

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