The 4th of July, our Independence Day is a time to celebrate our freedom and independence as a Nation and is also synonymous with back yard BBQ's and time spent with friends and family. The smells and sounds of summer- a burger grilling, kids laughing and lighting sparklers, the adults chatting and sipping on something cool and refreshing, and the all-American tradition of smores at the end of the day while the fireworks light up the night sky.
All this celebrating should be stress and worry free, but like so many things, we want our friends and family to enjoy every aspect of the day. With temperatures soaring in July all across the nation, serving something refreshing and light that is approachable and won’t break the bank will keep everyone hydrated and feeling relaxed. Whether you’re the host or hostess or bringing something along to a friends gathering, here are a few of our suggestions to help you in planning libations for your festivities.
Sparkling Sangria
Sangria has the right amount of sweetness, a little fruitiness, can be served with ice, and is always a crowd pleaser. Most importantly, it’s easy to make, can be made ahead of time, and can be made in large quantities. Here is a patriotic and easy to make Sangria that will be sure to be a hit!
What You’ll Need:
- 1 bottle sauvignon blanc
- 1 bottle prosecco
- 1 cup apple juice
- 3 cups fresh blueberries
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Combine wine, apple juice, and berries in a pitcher, cover, and refrigerate for 2-4 hours. Before serving slowly stir in bottle of prosecco and ice. Pour and enjoy!
Wine Spritzer
A wine spritzer is always a good idea. It’s cold and effervescent and your wine goes further! Also, like sangria, it can be made in large batches and while you don’t have to do much ahead of time, it’s not something you need to fuss with once the festivities have begun! Such a simple drink to make, yet is sure to impress your friends if you take the few steps and serve them a beautiful and refined ice cold spritzer.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 bottle sauvignon blanc
- Club Soda
- 1 lemon
The colder the better! So, it’s best to put the club soda and white wine in the freezer for about 20 minutes before you are ready to mix and serve. Mix 3 parts wine to 1 part club soda. So, for a 1 cup serving, it’s 3/4 cups white wine and 1/4 cup club soda, then finish each one off with a lemon rind for a hint of flavor and a beautiful garnish. Sip Sip Hooray! 🎉
Rosé
Rosé has really hit the scene in a big way in the last few years here in the states, and while cliches aren’t always a good thing, we happen to agree with the sentiment, rosé all day. The right rosé hits all the right notes for a hot day- it’s dry, a little fruity, light on the palate, and can be served very cold. We prefer French rosé from Provence to all others, but since they can get a little pricey- we found a few that will keep you sipping without worrying too much about the cost but still in love with that crisp and refreshing taste. They are: Cote Des Roses, Brin de Rosé, and Domaine De Bendel.
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is a crowd pleaser. It has hints of citrus, apple, and pear and is good for sipping and won’t overpower food. While there are many regions that make Sauvignon Blanc, we suggest finding something from New Zealand because you can find some great quality and palate pleasing notes while still remaining cost conscious. A few good labels that are consistent sippers are: Kim Crawford, Nobilo, and Oyster Bay.
If you’re 4th plans involve heading off to the lake or an outdoor concert and you want to bring one of these refreshing libations along, remember that you can bring two bottles (1.5 liters) with you while showing off your patriotic spirit with our USA Canvas Purse! Your beverage will also stay cool in the insulated pouch and no need to worry about glass containers!
We hope your 4th of July is safe, stress free and memorable! Here are three cheers for the Red, White, and Blue!
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