Winter is the season of warmth and comfort. It’s the time of year when all we want to do is wrap ourselves in a cozy blanket, sit by the fire, and enjoy a hot drink. While hot chocolate and coffee are popular choices, there’s another delightful option that embodies the essence of winter: Spiced Mulled Wine. This traditional drink, enjoyed for centuries during the colder months, is a perfect blend of warm spices and wine, guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out. Preparing Spiced Mulled Wine is easy, fun, and will surely become a winter favorite. Here’s a simple guide to making this heartwarming beverage.
Ingredients
To prepare Spiced Mulled Wine, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 bottle (750ml) of red wine: Choose a wine that you enjoy drinking. A fruity, dry red wine like Merlot or Zinfandel works well.
- 1 orange: You’ll use this for zest and slices.
- 1/4 cup of brandy (optional): This adds an extra kick to your mulled wine.
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup of sugar (to taste): This will depend on how sweet you like your mulled wine.
- 8 whole cloves
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2-star anise
- Additional orange slices and cinnamon sticks for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Orange
Start by washing the orange thoroughly. Then use a vegetable peeler or a small knife to peel off some of the orange’s skin to make zest strips. Make sure not to get too much of the white pith as it can be bitter. After zesting, slice the orange.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large saucepan, combine the orange zest, orange slices, whole cloves, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and the sugar. Pour in just enough wine to cover the sugar and spices. This helps to infuse the flavors better.
Step 3: Simmer
Turn the heat on to medium-low and let the mixture heat until it’s hot but not boiling, about 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid boiling as it can cause the alcohol to evaporate too quickly and can also make the wine taste bitter.
Step 4: Add the Rest of the Wine and Brandy
After the spices, orange, and wine have warmed up and the sugar has dissolved, add the rest of the wine and the brandy, if using. Heat the mixture until it’s hot but, again, not boiling. This should take another 5 minutes. Taste the mulled wine and add more sugar if needed, depending on your preference.
Step 5: Strain and Serve
Once your Spiced Mulled Wine is hot and has a harmonious blend of flavors, strain it to remove the orange slices, spices, and zest. Pour the mulled wine into mugs or heat-resistant glasses. Garnish each serving with a fresh orange slice and a cinnamon stick.
Tips for the Perfect Spiced Mulled Wine
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Low and Slow: Always remember, mulled wine should be warmed over low heat and never boiled. Boiling can reduce the alcohol content and alter the flavors.
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Experiment with Spices: While cloves, cinnamon, and star anise are traditional, feel free to experiment. Cardamom pods, nutmeg, or a bay leaf can add interesting flavors.
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Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness according to your taste. You can start with less sugar and add more as needed.
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Serving: Always serve Spiced Mulled Wine warm. If you’re serving it at a party, you can keep it warm on the stove on the lowest heat or in a slow cooker set to a low heat.
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Alcohol-Free Version: For a non-alcoholic version, replace the wine with grape juice or cranberry juice and skip the brandy. This way, everyone can enjoy a warm, spiced drink.
Preparing Spiced Mulled Wine is a delightful winter activity that fills your home with a fragrant, inviting aroma. It’s a wonderful drink to enjoy while relaxing at home or to serve at winter gatherings. The warmth of the spices, combined with the rich flavor of the wine, creates a comforting beverage that embodies the spirit of the season. Follow this simple guide and experiment with the ingredients to find your perfect blend. Cheers to a warm and cozy winter!