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Spiced Mulled Wine with Orange Zest and Bourbon

This mulled wine recipe involves gently simmering red wine with aromatic spices, orange zest, and a splash of bourbon, resulting in a warm, fragrant beverage. The final product is a cozy, slightly viscous drink with visible citrus slices and a rich, spiced aroma that fills the room.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Holiday
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 750 ml red wine good quality, dry
  • 2 pieces orange slices preferably peeled thin
  • 3 teaspoons cinnamon sticks whole
  • 4 cloves whole cloves
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup adjust to taste
  • 1 shot bourbon optional

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Pour the red wine into a saucepan and add the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and cloves. Turn the heat to low and let the mixture warm gently—avoid boiling to preserve the wine's subtle flavors.
  2. Allow the wine to simmer softly for about 15-20 minutes, gently bubbling around the edges and releasing a warm, inviting aroma of citrus and spices.
  3. Stir in the honey or maple syrup to balance the spices and sweetness, and taste the mixture to adjust the sweetness if desired.
  4. Once the wine is infused with flavor and piping hot, remove the saucepan from heat. Pour in the bourbon and stir gently to combine.
  5. Strain out the citrus slices and whole spices into a serving pitcher or mugs, leaving behind the whole spices if desired.
  6. Pour the hot mulled wine into mugs, allowing the fragrant steam to waft upward, and serve immediately for a cozy, aromatic experience.

Notes

Ensure the wine never comes to a full boil to retain its delicate flavors. Adjust sweetness based on your preference, and feel free to add extra spices or citrus as desired for variation.