Ultimate mulled wine

The divine frangrance of mulled wine is surely one of the most comforting pleasures around Christmas. One glass, two, three and before you know it you’re a little deliciously tipsy.

You can buy pre-made spice bags for mulled wine from places such as Fortnum & Mason but if you enjoy cooking, or if you enjoyed our divine rum punch recipe from earlier this month you might have everything you need.

Ingredients

Red wine: you don’t need to buy posh stuff for mulled wine since it will be jazzed up with other ingredients. Dry is best.

Fresh oranges: some to slice into the wine and some for garnish if you’re feeling flamboyant

Cinnamon

Mulling spices: cardamom pods, whole cloves and star anise (so pretty!)

Something sweet: I use brown sugar but honey also works well

Extra liqueur: this is optional, however, a splash of brandy or cognac adds a little something more

Heat resitant glasses or cups

Beautiful, tasty star anise and cinnamon

Method

Combine all the ingredients in saucepan and give a brief stir. I don’t have a recommended level of spices and sugar as this really is to your personal taste.

Heat until the liquid barely reaches a simmer over a medium-high heat level. if you allow it to bubble the alcohol will bil off. Once the simmer point is reached, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucpan with a lid allowing it to simmer in this way for at least 15 minutes or more. Check if you need more sugar.

Serve: two options here. If you prefer a smooth wine without bits, strain and serve with a little orange. If you like to see the pretty spices floating around keep them and add a little orange garnish.

Enjoy!