Mystic Mulled Wine

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle (750ml) of red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
• 8 whole cloves
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• Peel of 1 orange (avoiding the white pith)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 orange, thinly sliced (for garnish)
• Additional orange slices, for serving (optional)
• Star anise (optional, for garnish)
• Whole cranberries (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Pour the red wine into a large saucepan or pot and place it over low to medium heat. Be careful not to let it boil, as this can affect the flavor.

2. Add the cloves, cinnamon sticks, and orange peel to the wine. Stir gently to combine.

3. Allow the wine to simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to infuse the flavors.

4. After the wine has simmered and the flavors have melded together, remove the pot from the heat.

5. Stir in the honey until it is fully dissolved, adjusting the sweetness to your taste.

6. Carefully strain the mulled wine to remove the cloves, cinnamon sticks, and orange peel. You can use a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth for this step.

7. Place a few slices of orange into each serving mug or glass.

8. Pour the strained mulled wine into the mugs or glasses over the orange slices.

9. Garnish each glass with an additional orange slice, a star anise, and a few whole cranberries, if desired, for a festive touch.

10. Serve the Mystic Mulled Wine warm and enjoy the cozy, aromatic flavors of this enchanting drink!

This Mystic Mulled Wine recipe with orange slices inside adds an extra burst of citrus flavor and visual appeal to the classic warm and spiced beverage, perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings.