Festive Mulled Wine Elixir
Warm up your winter gatherings with this festive mulled wine elixir, bursting with aromatic spices and a touch of citrus. Infused with the rich flavors of red wine, smooth rum or brandy, and a delightful mix of spices, this beverage creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for holiday celebrations. This concoction is suitable for cozy evenings and special occasions, serving as a comforting hug in a glass. Hibiscus flowers add an exotic twist, but feel free to use a hibiscus tea bag for convenience. Serve it straight from the crock pot to keep the warmth alive, and mix in warmed water or cranberry juice if you prefer a lighter taste. Garnish with fresh cranberries for an extra festive touch, making this drink as beautiful as it is delicious!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
15
Ingredients
Ingredients
red wine
1 quart (N/A)
rum or brandy
1 cup (N/A)
water
2 cups (N/A)
vanilla bean
1 (cut lengthwise in half)
cardamom pods
10 (N/A)
cloves
5 (N/A)
cinnamon stick
1 (N/A)
whole allspice
2 teaspoons (N/A)
orange zest
2 teaspoons (Or use a whole orange cut in half)
lemon zest
1 teaspoon (grated, or use a whole lemon cut in half)
dried hibiscus flowers
3 (optional)
sugar
to taste (N/A)
blanched almonds
N/A (for garnish)
raisins
N/A (for garnish)
fresh cranberries
N/A (for garnish)
Instructions
1
In a non-reactive saucepan, combine the red wine, rum or brandy, water, vanilla bean, cardamom pods, cloves, cinnamon stick, allspice, orange zest, lemon zest, and dried hibiscus flowers (if using).
2
Heat the mixture over medium heat until it just begins to simmer, then lower the heat and allow it to gently simmer for 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
3
If preferred, you can alternatively place all the ingredients in a slow cooker and set it on low for 1 to 2 hours.
4
After simmering, strain the mixture to remove the spices and solids. Transfer the warm liquid to a heat-resistant punch bowl or keep it in the crock pot on low to maintain warmth.
5
To serve, place a blanched almond and a handful of raisins or fresh cranberries in the bottom of each glass or mug.
6
Carefully pour the warm spiced wine mixture over the almonds and raisins, allowing them to infuse the drink with added flavor.
7
Garnish with a few extra fresh cranberries on top and enjoy the holiday cheer!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Festive Mulled Wine Elixir?
It is a warm, aromatic winter beverage made with red wine, spirits like rum or brandy, and a blend of festive spices and citrus.
How long does it take to simmer on the stove?
The mixture should be gently simmered for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can place all ingredients in a slow cooker and set it on low for 1 to 2 hours.
What type of wine is best for this recipe?
A rich, full-bodied red wine works best to stand up to the strong spices and spirits.
Should I use rum or brandy?
You can use either a smooth rum or brandy depending on your personal flavor preference.
What can I use if I don't have dried hibiscus flowers?
You can use a hibiscus tea bag for convenience or omit them, though they add a lovely exotic twist.
How do I prepare the vanilla bean?
The vanilla bean should be cut lengthwise in half to release the seeds and maximize flavor infusion.
How many cardamom pods are needed?
The recipe calls for 10 cardamom pods to provide a warm, herbal spice note.
Can I use ground spices instead of whole spices?
Whole spices are preferred for a clearer liquid and easier straining, but ground spices can be used in smaller quantities if necessary.
What is the purpose of adding water?
Water is used to balance the intensity of the wine and spirits; you can also substitute it with cranberry juice for a fruitier taste.
How much orange zest is required?
You will need 2 teaspoons of orange zest, or you can simply use a whole orange cut in half.
How much lemon zest should I add?
Use 1 teaspoon of grated lemon zest, or use a whole lemon cut in half.
Is sugar necessary in this recipe?
Sugar is added to taste to balance the acidity of the wine and citrus; the amount depends on your preference.
What should I use for garnishing the drink?
The recipe recommends garnishing with fresh cranberries, blanched almonds, and raisins.
Why are almonds and raisins placed in the bottom of the glass?
They infuse the drink with extra flavor and provide a traditional, edible treat at the bottom of the mug.
How do I prevent the alcohol from evaporating?
Ensure the mixture only reaches a gentle simmer and avoid boiling it vigorously.
What does 'non-reactive' saucepan mean?
A non-reactive saucepan, like stainless steel or enamel, prevents the acidic wine from picking up a metallic taste.
Should I strain the wine before serving?
Yes, after simmering, strain the mixture to remove the spices, hibiscus flowers, and citrus solids.
How can I keep the wine warm during a party?
You can keep it in a crock pot on the low setting or serve it from a heat-resistant punch bowl.
Can I make an alcohol-free version?
Yes, you can substitute the wine and spirits with grape juice or a blend of cranberry and apple juices.
What kind of raisins should I use?
Standard dark raisins or golden raisins both work well as a festive garnish.
Is it okay to use frozen cranberries?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used for garnish if fresh ones are not available.
Can I store leftovers?
Leftover mulled wine can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; strain it before storing.
How do I reheat the mulled wine?
Reheat it gently on the stove over low heat until warm, making sure not to bring it to a boil.
Does the hibiscus change the color of the drink?
Yes, the hibiscus flowers add a deep, vibrant ruby hue to the elixir.
How many whole cloves are used?
The recipe uses 5 whole cloves for a subtle, spicy warmth.
Can I use honey instead of sugar?
Yes, honey or maple syrup can be used as a natural sweetener instead of sugar.
What size cinnamon stick is needed?
One standard cinnamon stick is sufficient to flavor the entire batch.
How many servings does this recipe make?
The recipe yields about 1.5 to 2 quarts of liquid, typically serving 6 to 8 people depending on mug size.
Is this drink served hot or cold?
This Festive Mulled Wine Elixir is best served hot to fully enjoy its aromatic spices.