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 With winter weather coming and the holidays just around the corner, nothing could be cozier than a toasty mug of mulled wine. Mulled wine, the vine's version of a classic hot toddy, is a traditional holiday treat in many Old World countries. Mulled wines have been warming people for centuries. They are a wines that have been sweetened, spiced and slightly heated - offering a delightful alternative to traditional coffees, ciders and toddy's at holiday gatherings or just a cold winter's night. There are many variations of mulled wines, including some made with white wine or spiced drinks diluted with tea or juice, which end up tasting more like punch. To make a classic mulled wine, you should start with a rich and rustic red wine. You do not want to waste an expensive wine, since the flavor will change substantially. But be aware that a very cheap wine can sometimes express strange flavors when they are mulled. It is best to stick with a solid, mid-range wine from Italy or Spain. Mulled wine is an interesting and unique addition to your holiday table and is easy to make.
You can buy the spices already mixed and bagged at wineries or other food or kitchen stores, but here is an easy recipe that you can prepare with your own ingredients.
Ingredients:
• One bottle (750 mL) of red wine (suggestions: Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Merlot)
• One peeled and sliced orange (keep peel to add zest to taste into cooking pot)
• 1/4 cup of brandy
• 8-10 cloves
• 2/3 cup honey or sugar
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tsp fresh or 2 tsp ground ginger (allspice can be substituted)
Preparation:
Combine all ingredients in either a large pot or a slow cooker. Gently warm the ingredients on low to medium heat (avoid boiling), for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure that the honey or sugar has completely dissolved.
When the wine is steaming and the ingredients have been well blended it is ready to serve. Use a strainer to remove the seasonings and ladle into mugs. |
