How to make hot cinnamon wine

When the weather gets colder, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, spiced drink. Hot wine is a delicious, aromatic beverage that is perfect for cozy evenings by the fireplace or holiday gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can create this flavorful drink that will warm you up from the inside out.

To make hot cinnamon wine, you will need the following ingredients:

– 1 bottle of red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup of water
– 1 cup of sugar
– 2 cinnamon
– 4 whole cloves
– 1 orange, juiced and zested
– Optional garnish: orange slices and cinnamon sticks

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making hot cinnamon wine:

1. In a large pot, combine water, sugar, cinnamon sticks, cloves, orange juice, and orange zest. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved.

2. Once the sugar has dissolved, add the bottle of red wine to the pot. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Be careful not to let it boil as it will cause the alcohol to evaporate.

3. After simmering, remove the pot from the heat and strain the wine mixture to remove the cinnamon sticks and cloves. This will leave you with a smooth, spiced wine base.

4. Return the strained mixture to the stovetop and heat it gently until steaming, but not boiling. It’s important to keep the wine warm without letting it boil to preserve the alcohol content.

5. Once the wine is heated, it’s time to serve! Ladle the hot cinnamon wine into heat-resistant glasses or mugs. If desired, garnish each glass with an orange slice and a cinnamon stick for an added touch of elegance and aroma.

Hot cinnamon wine can be enjoyed on its own, or alongside some cozy winter treats like gingerbread cookies or baked apples. The warmth of the wine combined with the comforting spices will create a delightful sensory experience.

If you’re hosting a holiday gathering or a winter party, you can easily scale up this recipe to make larger quantities. Simply adjust the ingredients accordingly and consider using a slow cooker to keep the wine warm for an extended period.

Remember to enjoy hot cinnamon wine responsibly, as the warming effect of the alcohol may make it easier to underestimate its potency. It’s best to savor this drink in moderation and be mindful of your alcohol intake.

In conclusion, making hot cinnamon wine is a simple and rewarding process that brings warmth and joy during the colder months. With just a few ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a spiced beverage that will delight your taste buds and create a cozy ambiance. So gather your friends or loved ones, and enjoy a cup of hot cinnamon wine that will warm both your body and soul.