This mulled wine is soothing and satisfying with a delightful blend of spices warmed to perfection. Refrigerating the wine mixture overnight allows the flavors to blend, so don’t omit this essential step.
—TASTE OF HOME TEST KITCHEN
PREP: 15 MIN. • COOK: 30 MIN. + CHILLING • MAKES: 5 SERVINGS
1 bottle (750 milliliters) fruity red wine
1 cup brandy
1 medium orange, sliced
1 medium lemon, sliced
1 cup sugar
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 cinnamon sticks (3 inches)
1/2 teaspoon whole allspice
1/2 teaspoon aniseed
1/2 teaspoon whole peppercorns
3 whole cloves
GARNISH
Cinnamon stick, star anise and orange twist
1. In a large saucepan, combine the wine, brandy, orange, lemon, sugar and nutmeg. Place remaining spices on a double thickness of cheesecloth; bring up corners of cloth and tie with string to form a bag. Add spice bag to wine mixture.
2. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat; cover and simmer gently for 20 minutes. Cool; cover and refrigerate overnight.
3. Strain; discard fruit and spice bag. Reheat wine; serve warm in mugs. Garnish as desired.
NOTE This recipe was tested with Rioja wine. Merlot would also work well.