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We know Memorial Day started as a day to commemorate our lost and fallen soldiers — and we still think it should be — but we also can call a spade a spade: it really has become national barbecue day.
Rather than throw back the same old beers and wines that you do at every other outdoor party, why not switch it up this time?
How about some pitcher cocktails?
We scoured the interwebs (i.e. Pinterest) to find alcoholic recipes to quench your thirst and help with the party.
See Also: Memorial Day Coming Next Week: Try These Lamb Recipes on the Grill
Sangria, Posted by Andrea Meyers
One orange, cut into 1/8-inch slices
One lemon, cut into 1/8-inch slices
One cup granulated sugar
One (750 ml) bottle dry white wine (chardonnay)
One (750 ml) bottle dry red wine (cabernet sauvignon)
Sliced peaches, grapes, strawberries, or other seasonal fruit
Gin, Grand Marnier, or brandy to taste (I did 4 shots of Grand Marnier.)
Step One: Combine the orange, lemon, sugar and wines in a large glass bowl or pitcher and stir for several minutes until the sugar is dissolved. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 to 6 hours, or overnight.
Step Two: Just before serving, add the optional fruits and spirits. Serve over ice or, just before serving, place some ice cubes in a punch bowl.
Bellini Moonshiners, Pinned by Cynthia Roney
32 basil, leaves
Two limes (about 1/4 cup), Juice of
Two peaches, ripe pitted, and quartered
One liter Sparkling water
One bottle Sparkling wine
One and half cup Moonshine
Step One: In a large pitcher, muddle peaches, basil, and sugar using a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon. Add four cups ice.
Step Two: Add the lime juice and moonshine. Stir.
Step Three: When serving, divide the mixture evenly among eight highball glasses (or Solo cups) and top off with sparkling water and sparkling wine.
Step Four: Garnish each glass with a basil leaf.
Red, White, and Blue Sangria, Posted by Punchbowl
Strawberries, sliced
Blueberries
Pineapple, cut into star shapes
Two Bottles dry white wine
One cup Triple Sec
Half cup berry-flavored vodka
Half cup fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup simple syrup
Step One: Combine the ingredients in a large pitcher and stir.
Step Two: Chill in the refrigerator for four hours or more. (
Follow Sara Ventiera on Twitter, @saraventiera.
