A Taste of Winter Wonderland – Mulled Wine with Cranberry-Cinnamon Syrup

Allergens

Contains sulfites.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle (750ml) of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 star anise
• 6 cloves
• 2 strips of orange zest (about 1 inch wide)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh cranberries and orange slices for garnish

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, combine sugar, water, cranberries, cinnamon stick, star anise, cloves, and orange zest. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
2. Once the sugar has dissolved, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, or until the cranberries have softened and burst. Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve into a measuring cup, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
3. In a large saucepan or pot, pour in the red wine. Add the prepared cranberry cinnamon syrup and lemon juice. Stir gently to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a low simmer over medium heat. Once it reaches a simmer, remove the pan from the heat and allow the flavors to meld for 5 minutes.
5. Serve the mulled wine hot in glasses or mugs, garnished with fresh cranberries and orange slices. Enjoy!

Chef’s Insight

The key to creating the perfect mulled wine is to find a balance between the warmth of the spices and the richness of the red wine. Be sure not to overheat the mixture, as this can cause the alcohol to evaporate, leaving behind a bitter taste.

Notes

Pair this festive Mulled Wine with Cranberry-Cinnamon Syrup with a rich chocolate dessert for a truly unforgettable holiday experience.