The perfect mulled wine recipe to welcome Christmas

Winter and Christmas provide the perfect season, and reason, to spend cozy evenings with loved ones. As with every festive season, this too comes with its share of delectable food and drinks. One of them being mulled wine.
A warm concoction of spices and wine, mulled wine is the ideal companion - whether you plan to tuck in and watch a Christmas film, or are hosting friends for a house party.

Amit Bhatia, Director of Food & Beverage, JW Marriott Jaipur Resort & Spa shares his secret recipe for mulled wine.

Give it go, trust us, you won't be disappointed.

Ingredients
Wine: A bottle of dry red or white wine
Fresh orange (peeled): 1
Cinnamon
Whole cloves
Star anise
Cardamom pods
Sweetener (Sugar, Maple syrup or honey): A few tablespoons
Extra liqueur (optional): Brandy, bourbon or cognac

Method
- Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and give them a quick stir
- Keep on medium flame and let it simmer. Avoid letting it bubble — you do not want to boil off the alcohol
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the wine simmer (from 15 minutes upto 3 hours)
- Use a fine mesh strainer to remove orange slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, star anise and ginger from wine
- Stir in your extra sweetener if needed
- Serve warm in heatproof mugs, topped with your favorite garnishes