Monday, June 30, 2014

Wine Review: Spice Up Your Summer Party with Lolailo Sangria



Lolailo Sangria isn’t your typical red wine as it is more akin to red fruity spiked punch. With distinct strawberry and raspberry flavors and almost no aftertaste this sangria is soft and light. It contains half the alcohol content of other wines and has a higher sugar content that adds to its sweetness. Imported from Spain the wine is for sipping, light drinking, or for mixing with cocktails. You can also consider blending with a smoothie.

Sangria has been around for centuries. As far back as ancient times such wines mixed with mint, ginger or other spices (1). The Spanish and Portuguese drink these wines mixed with cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, merlot, brandy and a variety of fruit. It became more popular in the U.S. with rising interest in citrus drinks and wine varieties.  

Most people can conjure Sangria in their home kitchen. It is simple to make by mixing red wine, brandy, club soda, fruit and sugar. Popular red wine bases include Rioja, Beaujolais, Pinot Noir, and Sangiovese (2). You will only need a container big enough to handle the mixture and a few simple tips to enhance flavor. 

As a light wine it is often associated with summer, sand, and waterfront parties. Light wine is for hot months while heavier wines are for winter. Lolailo’s Sangria conjures up that image in their label trying to align their brand image to the wine’s core drinkers. The incorporation of spicy red colors, fruit, and the tango dancer all add to the image. 

Sangria mixes well with hot and spicy foods (3). Pairing with chips & salsa, Thai, kabobs, burritos, chili and anything else made with heavy spices. If you are hosting an event in the summer you can make a whole Spanish theme out of it by brewing your own pitchers and providing Mexican foods. Don’t forget the Tango Music!
Sangria Recipe
Source: Wine Enthusiast Magazine

No comments:

Post a Comment