Classic Sangria

3-4 tablespoons sugar
1/4 cup aged rum or brandy
1/4 cup Cointreau or Triple Sec
1 navel orange, sliced
1 lemon, sliced
2 cinnamon sticks
1 bottle Spanish Rioja wine
Sliced strawberries or peaches (optional)
Soda water (optional)

1.Combine the sugar, rum/brandy, orange liqueur, fruits and cinnamon sticks in a large pitcher. Stir and allow the sugar to dissolve for about 20 to 30 minutes.

2.Add the bottle of wine and stir. Chill for 2 to 8 hours. Stir again before serving in ice-filled wine glasses.

3.Top with strawberries, peaches and soda water, if desired.