Watermelon Sangria

For a deliciously refreshing twist on a classic, try this make-ahead batch cocktail. The beauty is its versatility. Pick your favorite white wine. It can be dry or sweet, sparkling or still. If you want to make sure the sangria is a nice bright red color, stir in the grenadine, or you can skip it, if you prefer. 

Ingredients:

• 1  (10 lbs) seedless watermelon, peeled and cubed
• 1 (2-liter) bottle lemon-lime soda, chilled
• 1 (750-mL) bottle white wine
• 1 cup vodka
• 1/2 cup grenadine (optional)
• 1 whole lemon, thinly sliced into rounds
• 1/2 English cucumber, sliced into rounds

Method:

1. Working in batches, place the watermelon chunks in a blender; puree until smooth, straining juice through a fine-mesh sieve. Discard solids. Place strained watermelon juice in a large serving pitcher or punch bowl; stir in next three ingredients and grenadine, if using. Refrigerate until thoroughly chilled. Stir in lemon, lime and cucumber just before serving.