Sangria

1/2 lime, thinly sliced
1/2 lemon, thinly sliced
1/2 orange, thinly sliced
6 – 8 large ripe strawberries, hulled
1/4 cup (60 ml) sugar, or to taste
1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine, preferably Spanish rioja
1/4 cup (60 ml) Cognac or other good quality brandy
Club soda, chilled
Ice (optional)

Combine the lime, lemon, and orange slices, strawberries, and sugar in a large
pitcher.
Mash with a wooden spoon to release the juices. Add the wine and brandy and stir
to
dissolve the sugar. Taste and add more sugar if necessary. Refrigerate for at
least 1
hour, or until well chilled. Just before serving add chilled club soda to taste.
Serve in
wine glasses, with or without ice. Serves 4 to 6.