Franzia, Andre and you...perfect together

So my partner-in-crime Bernie has brought you a couple fancy-shmancy cocktail suggestions this summer like tea-flavored vodka and canned pale ale. Now I’ve had the vodka and it’s tasty and all, but lets face it – my journalism degree doesn’t exactly haul in the dough. To make my dollars take my liver to its limit, I try to start the evening with some economically-minded beverages. They say necessity is the mother of invention and, let me tell you, that is absolutely true. This is how my brainchild, Frandre Spritzers, came about.

Start with Fruity Red Sangria Franzia (I swear that’s its real name). At Spirtis Unlimited in Ortley Beach, a box of this delight will set you back $13.99; it’s the most expensive flavor or Franzia, but I think it’s worth it. You, of course, can choose whatever you want. Each box contains 5 liters and will last for-e-v-e-r. Seriously, I’ve had mine since Memorial Day. Don’t get grossed out – it’s probably pumped full of preservatives and has a shelf-life longer than I’ve been alive.

Next, you need Andre, one of the greatest liquids known to man. Extra dry, brut – it doesn’t matter. They’re all delicious. Spirits charges $5.59 per bottle. Frankly, this is more than I’d prefer to pay, but you know how it goes on the Barrier Island between Memorial Day and Labor Day. One of the best things about Andre is that there’s no cork but it still makes a delightful popping sound. This way, you still feel like you’re celebrating something exciting and don’t run the risk of putting someone’s eye out. Everyone wins. And, hey, you can even be friends on MySpace.

Fill a cup (preferably a solo one) with ice. Pour about an inch worth of Andre . Then fill it with the Franzia up to the last ridge on the cup and top the rest off with more Andre. If you’re  motivated, you can slice up some fruit and toss it in to impress your guests. If you’re lazy and looking to get the bubbles to your head as fast as possible, throw in a straw and you’re good to go.

As wonderful as Andre is, he (yes, I’ve personified him) doesn’t keep well so you’ll need to polish off the bottle before you go out. Grab 2 or 3 friends and this won’t be hard.