Picture this…. a cold evening, a cosy fireplace, some delicious snacks and a glass of your own freshly made mulled wine. Sound good? We think so too!

Did you know making mulled wine is far easier than you might think and there’s no need to run all over town with everything available right here at Southpoint!

Our friends at Vulture and Grey have provided some great wine suggestions and visit Wooloworths Metro or Sunlit Asian Supermarket for your fruit and spices.

Firstly, picking the right wine is crucial. A Shiraz, Merlot or Grenache is ideal.

These wines are all dark, fruity and full bodied enough to support the spices and other flavours that will be added.

Vulture and Grey’s picks: 

Angove – Long Row Merlot 2018 $11.99*

Dutschke – St Jakobi Vineyard Merlot 2016 $22.99*

Wallace – Shiraz Grenache 2018 – $19.99*

How to:

• Slice one orange into rounds and the other in half. Place the rounds into a medium heavy-bottomed pot.  Squeeze the juice from the remaining orange into the pot.
• Pour wine into the pot, followed by the brandy. Add 1 tablespoon of the maple syrup. Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves and star anise.
• Warm the mixture over medium heat until steaming. When tiny bubbles appear on the surface, reduce the heat to the low. Be careful not to boil.
• Taste, and add another tablespoon of maple syrup if you feel it’s needed. Continue cooking over very low heat for 5 to 10 more minutes.
• Serve in mugs with a garnish of orange slices or cinnamon sticks. Store leftovers in the fridge, covered and use within a few days.

*Prices accurate at time of publication.