Mulled Wine
User Reviews
5
Mulled Wine
Description
This Mulled Wine recipe uses a bottle of dry red wine combined with apple cider and the juice and zest of half an orange to build a layered base. Whole spices including cloves, star anise, and cinnamon sticks are simmered with the liquids to slowly release their fragrant, warming notes over about 20 to 30 minutes. Careful attention prevents boiling, preserving the wine’s character.
Ginger juice can be added to taste for extra warmth and subtle spice complexity. The final mixture is strained to remove solids, then served warm in mugs or a pitcher with reserved orange rounds and a cinnamon stick for garnish. Rosemary sprigs and cranberries can add a fresh, seasonal presentation.
This mulled wine is suited for cold evenings or festive gatherings where a spiced, gently sweetened warm drink helps create a cozy atmosphere. Adjusting sweetness or spice intensity by adding more apple cider or spices allows customization for taste preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 orange medium
- 1 (750-ml) bottle dry red wine such as merlot
- 2 cups apple cider plus more as desired
- 10 clove whole
- 8 star anise whole
- 6 cinnamon plus more for serving, whole sticks
- 2 to 4 tablespoons ginger juice to taste (optional)
- rosemary for garnish, sprigs
- cranberries for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Use a vegetable peeler to peel 3 to 4 strips of zest off half of the orange. Slice the remaining half into thin rounds and set aside for garnish.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the red wine, apple cider, and the juice from the zested ½ orange. Add the orange zest, cloves, star anise, and cinnamon sticks. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and simmer on low for 20 to 30 minutes. Be careful not to let it come to a boil.
- Stir in the ginger juice, if using. Taste, and if you like your mulled wine sweeter, add more apple cider. If you like it more spiced, add more whole spices and simmer for 15 more minutes.
- Remove from the heat, strain, and pour into a pitcher or mugs. Serve with the reserved orange rounds and cinnamon sticks. Garnish with rosemary sprigs and cranberries, if desired.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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