Robert Mondavi Pinot Noir

Tonight I tried the Robert Mondavi Private Selection Pinot Noir 2009

I was a little worried about trying a 2009 so soon, but this is pretty good.  I had seen it as a highly rated one, so I figured it was worth a shot.  It is very good, but not worth the extra cost over some cheaper options.  However, very drinkable.

Sangria Wine

Sangria Wine is a fruity punch made with wine.  It is primarily Spanish, with the word itself meaning bloodletting in Spanish.  There are a myriad of sangria recipes, but the base ingredients are:

  • A (usually cheap) fruity red wine.  Spanish versions would include Rioja, Tempranillo or Grenache.  However, any fruity red will do.
  • Slices or chunks of fresh fruit.  Oranges, apples, peaches, strawberries, pineapple, mango and lemon are the usual suspects.  However, pretty much any fruit can be used.
  • Some sort of sweetener.  Sugar, honey or any fake sweetener will work.
  • Generally another small amount of liquor is added.  Rum, brandy or flavored liqueurs are the most common.
  • Optional additions are usually ice and soda pop such as 7-up or Sprite.
  • Another variation is using white wine.  This results in the sangria being called sangria blanca.

Sangria wine is a favorite served throughout Spain and Portugal during the summer months as well as other parts of both countries all year. It is a popular drink among both locals and tourists at bars, taverns and restaurants.  There it is often provided in pitchers or other large containers that can hold enough for a bottle of wine in addition to the other ingredients. Many times it will come with a lid or other strainer to help stop the chunks of fruit and ice from falling into the glass.

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