My dear wife made up a pitcher of this wine-based punch last weekend. It’s an excellent, refreshing drink for summer parties.

2 (750 milliliters) bottles red wine (grenache or beaujolais work well)
1 cup brandy
1/2 cup orange-flavored liqueur (like Patron Citronge or Triple Sec)
3 cups orange juice (fresh-squeezed is best if you have the time and muscles)
1/3 cup sugar
1 orange, cut into wedges
1 lemon, cut into wedges
1 lime, cut into wedges
1 apple, cut into wedges
1 inch of fresh ginger root, peeled and sliced into coins (give them a squeeze in your juicer for extra flavor)
Sparkling water
Additional fresh fruit for garnish

Combine the wine, brandy, orange-flavored liqueur, orange juice and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Add the fruit and ginger. Cover and stick in the fridge for 6 to 12 hours to let all the flavors develop and get to know each other.

Before serving, strain into a pitcher and add a couple of splashes of sparkling water. Serve over ice with a little fresh fruit. We especially liked bing cherries!