As the cold months roll in, there's nothing quite like a cozy mug of Spiced Citrus Mulled Wine to warm you up from the inside out. This recipe combines the rich, robust flavors of red wine with fragrant spices and a hint of citrus, creating the perfect comforting drink for chilly evenings or festive gatherings.
Red wine forms the base of this mulled wine, providing depth and richness. Choose a medium-bodied wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. Brandy adds warmth and a touch of sweetness. The orange and lemon slices introduce a fresh citrus note, while honey gives a natural sweetness. Cloves, cinnamon sticks, and star anise bring the classic mulling spices, each contributing their unique aroma and flavor. A hint of nutmeg adds an earthy undertone. Brown sugar enhances the sweetness and adds a caramel-like depth. Cranberries give a festive, tart twist, and a splash of vanilla extract rounds out the flavors with a delicate hint of warmth.
Spiced Citrus Mulled Wine is perfect for serving at holiday parties or cozy evenings. Pair it with a charcuterie board featuring cheeses, nuts, and dried fruits. It also complements spiced cookies or gingerbread wonderfully.
Start by grabbing a large pot, and pour in a bottle of red wine along with 1/2 cup of brandy. Place the pot over medium-low heat. Be careful not to let it boil, as we want to preserve the alcohol content while warming the flavors.
Next, add your sliced orange and lemon to the pot. These will infuse the wine with citrusy brightness. Stir in 1/4 cup of honey, 4 whole cloves, 3 cinnamon sticks, 2 star anise, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/4 cup of brown sugar. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything.
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 30 minutes. This allows the spices to meld with the wine, creating a rich, aromatic blend. After 30 minutes, add 1/2 cup of cranberries and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
Once done, remove the pot from the heat. Strain the mixture to remove all the solids. This step ensures a smooth drink without any bits of spices or fruit. Pour your mulled wine into mugs, and if you like, garnish with a slice of orange or a cinnamon stick for that extra festive touch.
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