Mulled Wine — A Warm Winter Classic

🍊 Ingredients

• 1 bottle (750 ml) Red Wine (Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Shiraz)

• ¼ cup (60 ml) Brandy (optional, for extra warmth)

• ¼ cup (50 g) Sugar or Honey

• 1 Orange (sliced)

• 6 Whole Cloves

• 2 Cinnamon Sticks

• 2 Star Anise

• ¼ tsp Ground Nutmeg

• Optional Garnish: Orange slices or cinnamon sticks

🔧 Tools You’ll Need

1. Medium saucepan or pot

2. String Spoon

3. Mug with handle

🍇 Instructions

Step 1 (2 min): Slice the orange into rounds and stud each slice with a few cloves.

Step 2 (5 min): In a saucepan, combine the red wine, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, star anise, nutmeg, and sugar. Heat over medium-low.

Step 3 (15–20 min): Warm gently — do not boil — until the flavors blend and the wine becomes fragrant. Stir occasionally.

Step 4 (1 min): Remove from heat, add brandy if desired, and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 5 (1 min): Ladle into mugs or heatproof glasses, garnish with an orange slice or cinnamon stick, and enjoy warm.

⚠️ Tips & Notes

• Avoid boiling — boiling evaporates the alcohol and can make the wine taste harsh.

• Adjust sweetness by tasting midway; some wines are naturally sweeter.

• Add apple slices or cranberries for a fruity twist.

• Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated the next day.