Coco Loco Sangria

I made a new concoction for Alive After Five the other day and I called it Coco Loco Sangria. It was sangria with a definite coconut twist to it, but still plenty of fruit flavor as well. Here's how I did it:

First off, make it the night before so it has a chance to set and the flavors have a chance to meld, Put all of this in a very large container, or split into smaller containers if need be:

• 4 bottles cheap white wine. I used Turning Leaf (?) from Wal-Mart, Pinot Grigio
• 3 cups cranberry juice
• 1 can Coconut Creme (often found in the hispanic section)
• 2 cups apple juice
• 6-10 sticks of cinnamon
• 2 Apples sliced
• 3 oranges sliced
• 2 limes sliced
• 1 bottle coconut extract (I used McCormick, from the spice section)

Let all of this sit overnight for the flavors to meld. When ready to serve, but in a large container and add

• 2 2-liter bottles lemon-lime soda (I used diet!).

Pour into glasses garnished with a piece of fresh pineapple and a blueberry or two.

You will need to stir occasionally--the coconut creme contains fat and it tends to separate and also create a bit of a froth, but it also give the sangria a nice richness and velvety smoothness.

Enjoy!