Mulled Wine

Mulled Wine is a traditional European winter drink that has many variations but the core of wine, spices and some fruits is similar. I really enjoyed this drink last year in France, as most of you know there were quite a lot of rainy days and it was nice to stop in a cafe and enjoy one of these to get my blood back to a normal temperature and continue on my way. This recipe is just a variation of what I had on hand, feel free to add star anise, actual cinnamon sticks, and whatever pleases you (some add brandy or other spirits to the drink). I am actually really happy with how it turned out and it has been a nice treat on the weekend during these late fall cold days. I don’t enjoy too sweet of things, so please taste before the simmer time is over and adjust as preferred. Bonne santé!

Ingredients

2 cups of red wine (I used Pinot Noir)

4 slices of oranges

2 tbsp of sugar

1/4 tsp of cinnamon

pinch of cloves

pinch of nutmeg

leftover vanilla bean pods (about 1)

In a heavy bottomed saucepan over medium/low heat put all spices including vanilla, sugar and just a a splash of water. When sugar is dissolved (about 3-5 minutes), add in red wine and oranges, let simmer for 20-30 minutes depending on how hot your burner is.

Serve warm and garnish with cinnamon stick.