Steps

1. Cut the orange, lemon, and lime into thin slices and discard the ends. Place the citrus slices, spices, sugar, and optional brandy in the bottom of a sturdy 1 1/2-quart pitcher. Use a wooden spoon to muddle, or crush, these ingredients together.
2. Pour in the wine and stir to mix well. Make sure that the sugar is completely dissolved. Cover the pitcher with plastic wrap and chill for 45 minutes.
3. Stir in the soda or seltzer, adjust sugar to taste and fill the pitcher with ice cubes. Serve immediately.

Notes

Sangría is a refreshing aperitif, or before-dinner drink, that is equally good for parties or for simple sipping. The name comes from the Spanish word sangre, or "blood," and refers to the beverage’s deep red color. Sangría was originally created by Spanish peasants as a way to sweeten and flavor their sometimes weak and sour local wine. Today you will find frosty pitchers of sangría in Spanish homes, restaurants and tapas bars.

Make a delicious summer sangría by replacing the citrus fruits with diced fresh peaches and strawberries and using white wine instead of red. Omit the spices and brandy, and add a sprig of fresh mint.