Brrrr…it’s the perfect time to warm up with some HOT drinks. Spiced cider, Irish coffee, spiked cocoa – yes please!
But here’s a new one for you – Winter Spiced White Wine. This steamy white wine infusion is flavored with pears, apples, oranges, cloves, allspice, and cinnamon. For an extra kick, add some Grand Marnier or your favorite fruit liquor. It’s sure to be a hit!
For fun entertaining, I like to do a Hot Buttered “DIY Drink Station”. Set out some of hot buttered mix, a kettle of water, a selection of rums, whisky and brandies. Stack up some mugs and have some fresh nutmeg on hand for grating over the top. The interactive experience is so much fun for guests- and d’lish!
So now that I’ve given you a few ideas, go enjoy the chilly weather with your favorite winter warmer.
-Kathy
Warm Spiced White Wine
For large parties, this recipe can easily be increased, made in advance, and then gently reheated before serving. Keep it warm in a slow-cooker on low heat or in a deep, pretty chaffing dish. If you are a die-hard fan of spiced red wine, you can substitute it here.
Makes 7 cups, or enough for about 8 servings
12 whole cloves
1 small red apple, such as Pink Lady or Fuji
1 small ripe pear
5 allspice berries
1 cinnamon stick, broken in half
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
2 (750 ml) bottles light, dry white wine, such as chenin blanc
1/2 cup Grand Marnier or Cointreau
For garnishing: Orange-zest twists
Poke the cloves into the apple and cut it into 5 slices. Cut the pear into 6 slices. Combine the fruit and remaining ingredients in a stainless steel or heat-proof glass pan and stir well to incorporate the brown sugar. Warm the mixture over low heat. Do not let it boil! Let the flavors steep for at least 30 minutes before serving. Serve warm in mugs, glass coffee cups, or tempered glasses. Garnish each serving with an orange twist.
Recipe from Kathy Casey Sips & Apps, Chronicle Books
