Spiced Mulled Wine
The most companionable of cold-weather rituals — red wine warmed with citrus, spice and a little honey.
The most companionable of cold-weather rituals — a pot of red wine warmed with citrus, spice and a little honey, perfuming the whole house. It is less a recipe than a tradition, and worth making your own.
Keep it gently warm, never let it boil, and serve in warmed mugs. A splash of brandy at the end is not required but is very much in the spirit.
Ingredients
- 750ml dry red wine (a fruity unoaked one — Côtes du Rhône or similar)
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3 whole cloves
- 2 star anise
- 2 tbsp honey, or to taste
- A small splash of brandy (optional)
Method
- 1
Pour the wine into a heavy-based pan. Add the orange slices, cinnamon, cloves and star anise.
- 2
Warm gently over low heat for 20–25 minutes — do not let it boil, or the alcohol will harshen. Stir in the honey to taste.
- 3
Strain into warmed mugs. Finish each with a splash of brandy if you like, and a fresh slice of orange on the rim.
Mulling improves lesser bottles and humbles expensive ones — a medium-priced fruity red is exactly right. Save the good wine for the table.
Drinks
The Negroni, for a Quiet Evening
Equal parts gin, vermouth and Campari — the most civilised way to end a day, served over a single large ice cube.
Bourbon Apple Cider Smash
Fresh apple cider, bourbon, lemon and bruised thyme — brisk, warming and gone too quickly.
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