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Cozy Mulled Wine with Orange and Cinnamon: Easy Holiday Mulled Wine

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A simple, comforting holiday drink made by gently warming dry red wine with fresh oranges, cinnamon, and spices. This recipe avoids boiling to preserve the wine’s flavor and alcohol content, resulting in a smooth, aromatic beverage perfect for winter evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bottle (750ml) dry red wine (Cabernet, Merlot, or Pinot Noir)
  • 2 large oranges (1 sliced into rounds, 1 zested and juiced)
  • 3–4 cinnamon sticks
  • 4–6 whole cloves
  • 2 star anise pods
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (or honey)
  • 1/4 cup brandy or bourbon (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Wash oranges thoroughly. Slice one orange into thin rounds. Zest the second orange, avoiding the bitter white pith, and juice it.
  2. In a large bowl, combine orange slices, orange zest, orange juice, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and brown sugar to help dissolve the sugar and release oils.
  3. Pour the red wine into a large heavy-bottomed pot. Add the fruit and spice mixture. Stir gently. Add brandy or bourbon if using.
  4. Place the pot on the stove over medium-low heat. Bring to a gentle simmer (do not boil). Simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spices infuse.
  5. Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and let cool for 5 minutes.
  6. Place a fine-mesh strainer over a pitcher or serving jug. Pour the mulled wine through the strainer to remove fruit and spices.
  7. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Do not boil the wine, as it evaporates the alcohol and makes the drink bitter. The ideal temperature is around 160°F (70°C). Taste as you go to adjust sweetness based on the wine’s dryness. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute wine with a 50/50 mix of grape juice and apple cider.

Nutrition

Keywords: mulled wine, holiday drink, winter recipe, red wine, cinnamon, orange, cozy, easy cocktail, non-alcoholic option

Find it online: https://islatable.com/cozy-mulled-wine-with-orange-and-cinnamon-easy-holiday-mulled-wine/