Festive Mulled Merlot
Warm up your holiday gatherings with this exquisite Festive Mulled Merlot. Infused with aromatic spices and vibrant flavors, this delightful beverage will please even those who typically shy away from wine. Made with full-bodied merlot, tart cranberries, zesty orange juice, and a blend of mulling spices, it creates a comforting drink perfect for chilly winter nights. Served steaming hot in an elegant silver and glass coffee carafe, this mulled wine makes for a truly inviting holiday centerpiece that will have your friends asking for seconds!
24
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
dried cranberries
1/4 cup (none)
rosehip tea (hibiscus)
1 cup (brewed)
orange juice
1 cup (freshly squeezed)
merlot
3 liters (2 bottles) (none)
sugar
3/4 cup (none)
mulling spices
3 ounces (bag)
orange
1 (sliced into 1/4 inch rounds)
cinnamon stick
1 (for garnish)
Instructions
1
In a large non-aluminum pot, combine the dried cranberries, brewed hibiscus tea, freshly squeezed orange juice, merlot, sugar, mulling spices, and sliced orange.
2
Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it begins to simmer.
3
Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to warm gently for approximately 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the sugar fully dissolves and the flavors meld.
4
After the warming period, taste and adjust sweetness if desired by adding more sugar, then remove from heat.
5
Carefully pour the mulled wine into a silver and glass coffee carafe to keep it warm. Serve in heat-resistant punch cups, garnished with a cinnamon stick for added aroma and flavor.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Festive Mulled Merlot?
Festive Mulled Merlot is a warm, aromatic holiday beverage made with full-bodied red wine, spices, and citrus.
What type of wine is best for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for a full-bodied Merlot wine.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 24 servings, making it ideal for parties.
How much wine do I need to buy?
You will need 3 liters of Merlot, which is typically two large bottles.
What kind of tea is used in this mulled wine?
The recipe uses one cup of brewed rosehip or hibiscus tea for added depth of flavor.
What type of pot should I use for heating?
It is recommended to use a large non-aluminum pot to prevent any metallic taste from reacting with the wine.
How long does the mulled wine need to cook?
After reaching a simmer, it should be warmed gently on low heat for about 30 minutes.
Should the mixture be boiled?
No, you should only bring it to a simmer and then reduce the heat to keep it warm.
How much sugar is required?
The recipe calls for 3/4 cup of sugar, though you can adjust this to taste.
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes, you should taste the mixture after warming and add more sugar if desired before serving.
What fruit is included in the mixture?
The recipe includes dried cranberries and a sliced orange.
How should the orange be prepared?
The orange should be sliced into 1/4 inch rounds before being added to the pot.
What kind of orange juice is best?
Freshly squeezed orange juice is recommended for the best flavor.
What are the primary spices used?
The recipe uses 3 ounces of mulling spices and a cinnamon stick for garnish.
How should Festive Mulled Merlot be served?
Serve it steaming hot in heat-resistant punch cups.
What is the best way to keep the wine warm during a party?
Pouring the finished wine into a silver and glass coffee carafe helps maintain its temperature.
Is this recipe difficult to make?
No, it is classified as an easy recipe that mostly involves simmering ingredients together.
What garnish is recommended for the cups?
Each serving can be garnished with a cinnamon stick for added aroma.
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of dried?
The recipe specifically calls for dried cranberries, which provide a different texture and sweetness level.
Does the recipe contain any sodium or cholesterol?
Based on the provided data, the sodium and cholesterol levels are not specified.
Is this drink served hot or cold?
This is a warm beverage designed for chilly winter nights and holiday gatherings.
What is the purpose of the hibiscus tea?
Hibiscus tea adds a tart, floral note and a vibrant color to the mulled wine.
How often should I stir the mixture?
Stir occasionally while simmering to help the sugar dissolve and the flavors meld.
Can I use bottled orange juice?
While fresh is preferred, bottled orange juice can be used as a convenient substitute.
What type of cups should I use?
You should use heat-resistant punch cups to safely handle the hot liquid.
Is this a good recipe for a large crowd?
Yes, with 24 servings, it is specifically designed for holiday celebrations and large groups.
Can I add more spices?
The recipe uses 3 ounces of mulling spices, but you can always adjust spice levels to your preference.
When should I remove the pot from the heat?
Remove it from the heat after the 30-minute warming period and after you have adjusted the sweetness.
What makes the recipe 'festive'?
The combination of Merlot, cinnamon, mulling spices, and citrus creates a traditional holiday flavor profile.
Can I prepare this in a slow cooker?
While the instructions specify a pot on the stove, the same ingredients can easily be adapted for a slow cooker on a low setting.