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Hot Cider Mulled Wine Recipe – Cozy Winter Cocktail Idea

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A warm and aromatic winter cocktail combining spiced wine, apple cider, citrus, and cinnamon—perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 750 ml (about 3 cups) dry red wine (Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Pinot Noir)
  • 2 cups fresh, unfiltered apple cider
  • 1 orange, sliced into rounds
  • 3 cinnamon sticks
  • 6 whole cloves
  • 2 star anise
  • 34 tablespoons maple syrup or brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup brandy (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large saucepan, pour 750 ml (about 3 cups) of red wine and 2 cups of apple cider.
  2. Add 3 cinnamon sticks, 6 whole cloves, and 2 star anise.
  3. Slice 1 orange into rounds and add it to the mixture, saving a few slices for garnish if desired.
  4. Stir in 3-4 tablespoons of maple syrup or brown sugar, adjusting sweetness to taste.
  5. Set the saucepan over medium heat and warm the mixture until hot but not boiling (about 10-15 minutes).
  6. Lower the heat and let it simmer for another 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
  7. Use a fine mesh strainer to remove the spices and orange slices.
  8. If using brandy, stir in 1/4 cup now.
  9. Pour the mulled wine into mugs or heatproof glasses and garnish with a cinnamon stick and an orange slice if desired.

Notes

[‘Avoid boiling the wine to preserve the alcohol and flavor.’, ‘Use whole spices for the best flavor and avoid cloudiness.’, ‘Taste and adjust sweetness and spice levels before serving.’, ‘Prepare ahead and keep warm in a slow cooker for easy serving.’, ‘Experiment with white wine or sparkling wine for variations.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: Hot cider mulled wine, winter cocktail, spiced wine, holiday drink, cozy beverage