It’s more than just alliteration; it’s a statement, a proclamation that Thursdays are when the weekend should really start. Kicking it off right is the key, and what better way than with a cocktail that not only takes the edge off, but tastes good too. A hard thing to disagree with, we know. Drink up, get down and go to sleep happy.

Let me introduce you to a cocktail so stunning and delicious, it should probably be nominated as the official boozy beverage of summer. If you love sangria (and who doesn’t love sangria?), then you’ll find this amped-up, two-toned Tequila Sangria truly refreshing. This pioneering cocktail has all the flavors that make up red wine sangria, but it gets an extra oomph from tequila and sweet elderflower liqueur.

Let’s think about what that means for a moment: pineapple juice, tequila and elderflower liqueur (alternatively, you could try this with ginger or peach liqueur) make up the tasty base of this summery sipper. Then add a hodgepodge of tropical fruits and seasonal berries and top with bold Rioja. The deep purple of the Rioja against the backdrop of bright yellow pineapple juice will give you a dramatic-looking cocktail that subtly changes with each sip.

• 2 to 3 pineapple slices
• 2 to 3 orange slices
• 2 to 3 blackberries
• 2 to 3 lime wedges
• 2 ounce or 1/4 cup tequila
• 1 ounce or 2 tablespoons elderflower-flavored liqueur*
• 1 ounce or 2 tablespoons simple syrup*
• 2 ounces or 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• Splash orange juice
• Ice, as needed
• Red wine, as needed (recommended: rioja)
• *Cook's Note: peach-, pear- or ginger-flavored liqueur can be substituted.
• *Cook's Note: Simple syrup is equal parts sugar and water cooked until the sugar dissolves and then cooled completely.

In desired drinking glass, add the pineapples, oranges, blackberries, and lime wedges. Cook's Note: If you dont like the fruits suggested here feel free to use whichever fruits you desire. 

Next add the tequila, elderflower-flavored liqueur, simple syrup, pineapple juice, and orange juice. Add ice to glass and stir to mix ingredients. Top glass with red wine and enjoy.

Still thirsty? Check out more summery cocktails on Cooking Channel.