Mixed berries mulled wine

A mouth-watering alternative to traditional mulled wine. Enjoy this warming night-cap round a roaring fire with friends.

Serves 8-10

1 large orange

125g / 4 ½ oz caster sugar

6 cloves

2 cinnamon sticks

¼ tsp freshly grated nutmeg

1 vanilla pod, halved lengthways

2 bottles red wine

50ml / 2floz brandy

200g / 7oz mixed berries

 

1)      Pare the zest off the orange in thin strips and squeeze the juice. Place the orange zest and juice in a large saucepan with the sugar, spices and vanilla pod. Add just enough red wine to cover the ingredients. Heat gently, stirring, until the sugar has dissolved. Bring to the boil and boil rapidly until the wine has reduced and become syrupy.

Add the rest of the wine, brandy and the mixed berries. Gently simmer for two minutes, do not boil. Serve in heatproof glasses.