With Festival Epicure absolutely jumpin’ and the crowds flocking to the Mastronardi Estate Winery booth to have a taste of their famous Sangria (which they gave WindsorEats the exclusive rights to publish back in June 2007), we have received many requests to post the recipe once again. So, in response to the popular demand, here is the recipe.

Just a heads up; the secret really is the Mastronardi Zweigelt/Baco . A substitute changes everything.

Mastronardi Estate Winery’s Secret Sangria Recipe

* 1 Bottle of Mastronardi’s Zweigelt/Baco 2003
* 1 Orange cut into wedges
* 1 Lime cut into wedges
* 1 Lemon cut into wedges
* 1 cup of Rasberries (fresh or frozen)
* 1 cup of Strawberries (fresh or frozen)
* 1 small can of diced pineapples + juice
* 2 Tbsp of sugar
* 2 shots of brandy or gin or vodka
* 4 cups of ginger ale or any carbonated drink like 7-Up etc

Pour wine into a large glass pitcher. Add the berries, pineapple, brandy, sugar, squeeze the citrus juice into the wine and also toss the wedges in. Stir well and chill for at least 24-48 hours! This allows the the flavours to meld. If you have the time, allow the the mixture to sit 4-5 days.

Serving: Strain the fruit from the mixture and transfer to a new glass pitcher. Add the ginger ale and stir well. Pour over ice. Garnish each glass with either a slice of orange, lemon, or lime. You can also toss a few whole berries in as well.