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Festive Mulled Wine

Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 180

Ingredients

  • 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine (Merlot, Zinfandel, or Cabernet Sauvignon)
  • 1 orange, thinly sliced
  • 8 whole cloves
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 2-3 star anise
  • 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar adjust to taste
  • 1/4 cup brandy or rum optional

Instructions

  • Pour the red wine into a large saucepan or pot over low heat. Do not let it boil.
  • Add the sliced orange, cloves, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and honey or sugar.
  • Stir gently and let it warm on low heat for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
  • If using, add the brandy or rum just before serving.
  • Taste and adjust the sweetness or spice as needed.
  • Strain for a smoother drink, or leave the spices in for stronger flavor. Serve warm.

Notes

Keep the heat low — if it starts bubbling, it's too hot and the alcohol cooks off and the flavor flattens. Go easy on the cloves, as they can overpower quickly. Use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper flavor, add apple cider for a sweeter version, or make it non-alcoholic with grape juice and apple cider.