You’ve all heard me complain endlessly about the heat, so I’ve decided to suck it up and start consuming massive amounts of cool products. This will be a series of “Beat the Heat” recipes and stories, as well as tips on how to stay cool.

First up, I’m happy to introduce you to John Clift, Wine Director and Sommelier of Atria Restaurant and wine buyer for Great Harbor Gourmet & Spirits on Martha’s Vineyard, MA. Atria is probably my favorite restaurant on island; its great food, combined with excellent ambiance, makes it amazing. I remember last summer on my days off and wanting to get away from everyone, I’d walk to Atria and sit in their front terrace: comfy Adirondack chairs and perfect summer drinks, all while nibbling on a delicious appetizer created by Chef Christian Thornton. Atria also has a downstairs bar; a small pool table, huge crystal jars that held swimming fruit in vodka; dimly lit, it was the perfect spot to soothe your sunburns and have a great burger!

atria%2Bswing
Now, let’s Beat the Heat! Remember the last time you drank Sangria? Was it sticky sweet, with chunks of over-ripe fruit and even an umbrella? Take all of those horrible past experiences about the lovely Sangria and give her a second chance, I promise she won’t let you down if you make this recipe. John has an amazing passion for wine and this summer he shares with us Atria’s delicious Sangria recipe with some unique ingredients, such as ginger liquor! There are as many recipes for Sangria as there are wines, so make sure to play around with different ones.
Atria’s Summer Sangria
Ingredients
Makes 1 liter
1 bottle of Lini Lambrusco (or any Sparkling Red Italian Wine)
3 oz Canton
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 large, ripe orange
Method
1. Slice orange into wedges and muddle with sugar.
2. Add all liquors and let steep overnight to get best flavors.
3. Pour into a liter container and half cup of ice. Pour chilled Lini Lambrusco and enjoy!
Visit Atria Restaurant on the web:  http://atriamv.com/
Follow Atria on Twitter: @AtriaMV  

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19 Comments

  1. Hi Marnely! Really looking forward to the interview and more of the summer series. I love Sangria and have made it a couple of times. I have heard of Atria as well. Looking forward to learning more about them!

  2. Hey girlie, I am not big on alcohol. Really get sucha quick buzz and the giggles but one that I love is sangria!! So refreshing! Love this post and the swing pic too!

  3. Anonymous says:

    That sounds very cool and refreshing! Wish I had one right now!!!! (I’m burning up). Just might have to experiment this weekend =) btw, WHY did I not know you had a new post up????!!
    @alanecooke

  4. I agree the first shot is stunning!! Sangria would be perfect drink for summer, loads of flavor! thank you for sharing!!

    sweetlife

  5. I haven’t had a Sangria in a while! I am thinking that it’s time to change that. I’ve never used Canton or St. Germain in mine…Love that!

    P.S. I want to be where that photo was taken! 🙂

  6. oh my!!! first of all, BEAUTIFUL PHOTO!!! WOWOW!! and i love angria. i was just thinking about it this morning! 🙂

  7. Oh yes! I think everyone loves Sangria and you have provided us with an awesome recipe! Have a wonderful weekend!

  8. YUM! I love homemade Sangria! I always ordered it when I lived in Tucson. The authentic Mexican restaurants had some delicious Sangria:-) Looking forward to your “Beat the Heat” series:-)
    Hugs, Terra

  9. Now I’m wishing it was hot so I could whip up some sangria! Sounds wonderful and refreshing!

  10. First of all, I LOVE Sangria. I was able to obtain a recipe from a local restaurant that is known for it’s Sangria.
    Secondly, Atria is also my favorite restaurant on Martha’s Vineyard… well, I should specify by saying “evening restaurant”.
    Finally, I will most definitely try this recipe in August when we host a birthday bash for the Mr.

    Thank you 🙂
    And that’s a really lovely photo!