Cucumber Pimm's Sparkling Sangria

I recently threw a bridal shower for my fantastic friend, Sam.  Since she's from England, I did a "Wonderland"-themed tea party.  For the libation-of-choice, I made this Pimm's Cup-type Sangria.  I adore Sangrias. They are simple and give a fun "pizazz" to daytime events.

Pimm's No. 1 is an herbal gin-based liquer.  Combined with English hothouse cucumbers (great choice for lack of seeds), lemon, Valencia orange,  and sparkling wine, Pimm's makes for a light and refreshing drink.

Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups sliced English Cucumbers
1/2 lemon, sliced
1 orange, sliced
4 ounces Pimm's No. 1
2 ounces fresh orange juice
1 tablspoon sugar
750ml bottle sparkling wine, chilled
About 3 cups ice cubes (optional)

In a large (at least 2 quart) glass pitcher, combine the cucumber, lemon, and orange slices.  Pimm's orange juice, and sugar, and sir until the sugar has dissolved.  Refrigerate for about 2 hours.

When ready to serve, slowly add the sparkling wine, stirring gently with a long handled wooden spoon.  Fill highballs, wineglasses, or other decorative glasses with ice cubes, if using, and slowly pour the sangria over the ice, allowing the cucumber and citrus slices to fall into the glasses.

Serves 4