Holiday Cocktails: Citrus Mulled Wine Recipe

Celebrating with holiday cocktails is always a great way to bring in holiday cheer. Do you get the feeling that this winter is going to be especially long and cold? Us too. While we love all things related to the holiday season, freezing temperatures are a different issue entirely and we’re constantly looking for ways to bring the warmth back into our toes. If we do say so ourselves, this citrus mulled wine recipe definitely exceeds expectations. With a mix of red wine, aromatic spices, and bright citrus notes, this winter cocktail is a flavor-packed way to help you thaw out.

Holiday Cocktails: Citrus Mulled Wine

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 20-25 minute

Serves: 8 -12

Holiday Cocktails Ingredients:

2 bottles of red wine

½ cup brandy

½ cup honey

4 cinnamon sticks. The link is for a good-sized bag but I’ve found Frontier spices to be among the best for deep flavor in any recipe.

2 vanilla pods, halved

6 whole cloves

3 star anise

2 bay leaves

1 orange, zested and juiced

1 lemon, zested and juiced

Holiday Cocktails Directions:

1. Tie the spices and citrus together in a cheesecloth.
2. Heat a big saucepan over low heat and add the wine, brandy, honey, and citrus juices.
3. Drop the cheesecloth into the wine and stir everything to combine.
4. Let the mixture simmer for 20-25 minutes until heated through and fragrant. Remove the cheesecloth when finished.
5. Serve warm, with extra cinnamon sticks for garnish.

The only this better than a warm winter cocktail is a recipe that you can whip up in big batches. We recommend making this one in bulk. Since the spices’ flavors deepen over time, it’s well worth the investment of time to leave a huge pot simmering on the stove for a while. Then, when you’re done, you can store the leftovers in the fridge – in an airtight container of course – for up to two weeks. Those in the market for an easy holiday gift should save this recipe. After all, who wouldn’t want to receive a big bottle of this?

Do you have a favorite cold weather cocktail? Is there a winter recipe you’re dying to share?

For more holiday recipes take a look at these yummy brownies!