Mulled Wine for a Crowd

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Cozy up with this easy big batch mulled wine recipe for holiday parties. It's a warm, spiced, and perfectly festive hot drink.

Total Time20

Yield:

Calories: 175kcal

1 bottle red wine — a fruity, medium-bodied one works best (Merlot or Zinfandel) 750 ml red wine — a fruity, medium-bodied one works best (Merlot or Zinfandel)
Juice from 1 large orange
¼ cup fresh cranberries for color and a touch of tartness - optional
2 tablespoons brown sugar adjust to taste
10 whole cloves
2 cinnamon sticks
4 orange slices
4 oz brandy or orange liqueur like Cointreau or Grand Marnier
2 teaspoons honey optional, for extra sweetness

In a medium saucepan or small pot, combine everything except the brandy/orange liqueur and honey.?(That’s the wine, orange juice, cranberries, brown sugar, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and orange slices.)
Warm gently over low heat until steaming — don’t let it boil — about 160–170°F (70–75°C).
Let it simmer gently for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally to help the flavors meld.
Remove from heat. Stir in the brandy (or orange liqueur) and honey if desired.
Taste and adjust sweetness or spice to your liking.
Strain out the spices and fruit, then ladle into mugs or heatproof glasses. Garnish with an orange slice, cinnamon stick, or a few floating cranberries.

Tips:
For a softer spice flavor, you can place the cloves in a small piece of cheesecloth or a tea infuser for easy removal.

To keep it warm for a party, use a slow cooker on the “warm” setting (not hot).

For a festive touch, rim mugs with a bit of sugar and orange zest before serving.

Plan To Make This?Please share if you do. Mention @LivingLocurto or tag #LivingLocurto on Instagram. We'd love to see!

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: American

Keyword: alchohol, big batch drink, bucket drinks, christmas, christmas party drink, cocktail, mulled wine, red wine, wine