Mulling it Over

Recipe for Christmas mulled wine

Mulled wine, Glühwein or Glögg whatever you call it, this smouldering drink of heavy red wine, a splash of brandy and warming spices promises to raise the temperature on a cold, crisp winter’s day.

Traditionally served in a glass mug the flavour combinations of orange, cinnamon and mulling spices (star anise, cloves) makes the perfect drink for a festive occasion. Mulled wine is very easy to make, and the scent fills your home with Christmassy fragrance. For a non-alcoholic alternative, remove the brandy and swap the red wine for apple juice then sit back, enjoy and get into the Christmas spirit.

Ingredients

• 1 (750ml) bottle red wine (fruity and full bodied)

• 60ml brandy 

• 1 orange, pared peel 

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 8 whole cloves

• 2 star anise

• 2 – 4tbsp sugar, honey (or your chosen sweetener)

• Optional garnishes – citrus peel, cinnamon sticks and or star anise 

Method

1 Put the red wine, brandy, orange peel, cinnamon, cloves, star anise, and sugar (or honey) in a large pan cook on a low heat for 10 minutes.

2 Remove from the heat and cool, leaving to infuse for about 30 minutes.

3 To serve, gently reheat (without boiling) pour into mugs or heatproof glasses, add garnishes of your choice.

Tips

• If left on the heat the spices will become stronger.

• Leftovers can be kept refrigerated for a day, but it is advisable to remove the fruit.

• Any good quality red wine can be used but a Merlot, Zinfandel or Tempranillo work well.