This popular drink made from the potent Mexican liquor Tequila is served in chilled, salt rimmed stemmed glasses. When strawberry or kiwi are not in season use readymade strawberry or kiwi crush…… and remember to reduce the sugar proportionately. You can also make them with lemons or pineapples. Some people like salt around the rim of the glass; some don't. I do. A hint of salt on the tongue contrasts with the sweetness of the fruit and sets off the tequila's unique flavor. This drink is equally delicious without the tequila too.

Sangria comes from the Spanish word sangre, meaning blood from the colour. In Spain and the surrounding area, it is drunk at many festivals with great theatrical drama - poured directly into the mouth from a long spouted jug! The art lies in being able to drink the Sangria from varying heights without spilling any! It has now become a very well known drink, cool and packed with fruit. Ideally, Sangria needs to sit for a full day before it is served, to ensure a smooth and mellow taste. If a day is not possible, give it an absolute minimum of two hours to sit. Doubling or tripling the recipe is fine, but you'll have to switch to a large punch bowl in place of the pitcher.