Whether you are hosting a holiday dinner or spending a quiet night in, try making your own mulled wine at home this winter season. Warm your soul and taste buds with the perfect blend of spices, citrus, and rich red wine. Let the aromas of cinnamon and orange peel fill your home, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Sip on this delightful beverage and embrace the holiday spirit with every sip. Cheers to the most wonderful time of the year!

Ingredients

• 4-8 cloves 
• 2-3 star anise 
• 1 large orange 
• 1/4 cup brandy 
• 2 cinnamon sticks 
• 1 bottle of dry red wine (Merlot or Zinfandel are best) 
• 2-4 tablespoons of honey, maple syrup, or sugar 
• Extra garnishes: cranberries, star anise, cinnamon sticks, orange or citrus slices (optional)

Instructions

• Cut the orange in half and then cut one half into slices and place them into the saucepan. Squeeze the juice of other half into the saucepan. 
• Pour the bottle of wine and brandy into the saucepan. Add in your sweetener of choice, the cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cloves. 
• Start heating up the wine on a medium-high heat just before it starts to simmer (if it boils, the alcohol will cook out).
• After it begins to simmer, turn down the heat and keep it on low for at least 10 minutes or up to 3 hours (the longer you cook it, the stronger the flavor and spice). 
• Once you’ve removed the saucepan from the heat, taste the wine and add extra sweetener or spices if desired. 
• Straining is up to you. Keeping the spices and fruits in your mugs will further enhance and spice the wine. If you strain the mulled wine, use a fine mesh strainer to remove the orange slices and spices. 
• Once the wine has reached your desired flavor, serve it in your favorite mugs and top it with extra garnishes if you wish. Enjoy! 

Special Notes

• Instead of the spices, you can use a chai bag to simmer in the pan for a similar or added flavor. Or try adding extra spices such as ginger, nutmeg, or cardamom.