In Spain this traditional wine punch is served in the hot summers as a refreshing chilled beverage. It can be served in a punch bowl for festive occasions or simply in a large pitcher that can be pulled out of the refrigerator at your whim.

• Combine the red wine, brandy, lemon juice, orange juice, and sugar in a pitcher. Stir well and add sufficient ice to chill the mixture without all melting.

• Slice the lemon and orange into ¼-inch-thick slices and add them to the pitcher.

• Cut the apple in quarters, remove the core, and cut each quarter into slices and add them to the pitcher.

• Add the raspberries to the pitcher.

• Pour a glass for each person and be sure to include a piece of each fruit in each serving.

Shades of Sherry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Fino, Manzanilla, amontillado, oloroso, cream — these are all different types of the Spanish fortified wine known as sherry. Varying in color, depth of flavor, and degree of dryness or sweetness, the different types of sherries provide a versatile drink that can be served as both an aperitif before a meal or as a dessert wine. Dry sherries are usually served chilled, while the sweeter ones are served at cellar temperature. Finos are dry and light; Manzanillas are dry, delicate, and slightly salty; amontillados are nutty, slightly sweet, and darker than finos; and olorosos are sweet and darker still. Cream sherry is another name for the sweet oloroso type.