Cocktails for a Crowd
Strawberry Vodka Lemonade
Yields 6–8 servings
1 pound strawberries, tops removed and hulled
¾ cup lemon juice
⅔ cup sugar
1 cup vodka
3 cups water
Run the strawberries through a juicer and pour the fresh strawberry juice into a large pitcher filled halfway with ice. If you don't have a juicer, puree strawberries in a blender or food processor. Add lemon juice, sugar, vodka and water to the pitcher with strawberry juice. Stir to combine until the sugar has dissolved. Serve cold.
Large-Batch Negronis
Yields 8–10 servings
In a large punch bowl filled with ice, pour the Campari, vermouth and prosecco. Stir, then garnish with strips of orange rind. Ladle into punch cups to serve.
Peach-Plum Sangria
Yields 4–6 servings
In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water, and heat just until the sugar is dissolved to make a simple syrup. Place the peaches, plums and cherries in a large pitcher, and pour the simple syrup over them. Add the peach brandy and stir. Add the Riesling and chill until ready to serve, ideally overnight. When ready to serve, fill the rest of the pitcher with ice. Add some of the fruit to each glass.