Mulled Wine

SERVES: 5

INGREDIENTS

• 2 oranges
• 1 bottle of medium-bodied red wine
• ¼ cup brandy
• 1 to 2 tbsp maple syrup, to taste
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 3 star anise
• 4 cloves
• optional garnishes: fresh whole cranberries, additional orange half moons 
  
  

METHOD

1. Slice one orange into rounds and place it into a medium ­sized heavy-bottomed pot. Cut the second orange in half and squeeze its juice into the pot. 

2. Pour the red wine and brandy into the pot. Add 1 tbsp of maple syrup, the cinnamon sticks, star anise and cloves. Stir. 

3. Warm the mixture over medium heat until it begins to steam (about 5 minutes) and continue to watch it. When you begin to see the smallest of bubbles at the surface, reduce the heat to low.

4. Taste, then add another tbsp of maple syrup if needed. Continue cooking over very low heat for 5-10 more minutes if you would like to increase the intensity of the spice flavours. 

5. Serve in Christmas-themed mugs with your desired garnishes. You can add the cranberries to the pot for an extra festive presentation.