Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240ml) Water
  • 1 cup (200g) Granulated Sugar
  • 2 Cinnamon Sticks
  • 3 Whole Cloves
  • 2 Star Anise
  • 1/2 teaspoon Whole Allspice berries
  • 1 (750ml) bottle of dry red wine (e.g., Rioja, Merlot, or Cabernet Sauvignon)
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) Brandy
  • 1 cup (240ml) Spiced Apple Cider (or regular apple cider with a pinch of cinnamon)
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) Cranberry Juice
  • 2 Medium Apples (e.g., Honeycrisp, Gala), cored and chopped
  • 1 cup (100g) Fresh Cranberries
  • 1 Orange, sliced
  • Optional: Sparkling water or ginger ale, for topping

Instructions:

  1. (Optional) Prepare the Spiced Simple Syrup: Combine water, sugar, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise and allspice in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely. Strain to remove solids.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a large pitcher or punch bowl, combine the red wine, brandy, spiced apple cider (or regular cider), and cranberry juice.
  3. Add Fruit: Add the chopped apples, cranberries, and orange slices to the pitcher.
  4. Stir Gently: Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
  5. Chill: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably 4-6 hours, to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. Serve: Just before serving, add a splash of sparkling water or ginger ale (if desired) for a bit of fizz. Pour over ice.