Christmas drinks #01: mulled wine

Photo by Gareth Lewis-Jones

In the UK, hot winter drinks like mulled wine have a long and venerable history.  So, we find it difficult to understand how pre-made mulled wine bought in supermarkets is what people seem to drink at Christmas.  If they drink it at all.

Let's put that right.

This recipe is really easy to make but has all the depth and warming spice that you want from traditional seasonal food and drink.

Ingredients

75 cl bottle medium to full-bodied red wine (a cheaper Cabernet Sauvignon is ideal)

75 cl water

1 orange pierced with cloves

1 orange, sliced

1 lemon, sliced

3 level tablespoons granulated sugar or honey

1 inch (2.5 cm) piece cinnamon stick

1 tablespoon Grand Marnier (optional)

Method

Put all the ingredients in a saucepan then heat to simmering point, stirring until all the sugar has dissolved.

Keep it barely at simmering point for at least 20 minutes – but do not boil or all the alcohol will evaporate. This can be made in advance, then re-heated just before a party.  Serve it warm in half-pint mugs.  This recipe should make 6 servings.