FIFA World Cup Cocktails: Italy

Even sports fanatics have to admit that one of the best parts of a large-scale sporting event is the fact that it offers a perfect opportunity for celebration. The 2010 FIFA World Cup is no exception -- even if you're not an avid soccer fan, we highly suggest you pick a team and cheer them on, from start to finish.

If you don't feel any loyalty to a particular team, why not root for Italy if for no other reason than the fact that some of these guys have fabulous hair? Their first match is against Paraguay on June 14. Whip up a batch of the Tuscan Sangria, described below, and show some team spirit!

Tuscan Sangria
One 750-milliliter bottle Tuscan red wine
24 oz fresh orange juice
6 oz Tuaca (a vanilla- and citrus-flavored liqueur)
3 oz Punt e Mes (a bittersweet Italian vermouth)
4 oz fresh lime juice
4 oz limoncello
1/4 cup sugar
Ice
Orange slices and cinnamon sticks, for garnish

In a pitcher, combine the red wine, orange juice, Tuaca, Punt e Mes, lime juice, limoncello and sugar. Stir well to dissolve the sugar. To serve, fill wine glasses halfway with ice. Add the sangria and garnish each glass with an orange slice and a cinnamon stick.

Holidash will have more nationally-themed drink recipes for you as the World Cup approaches. Find them all here!