Mulled Red Wine

This recipe comes from the new Gourmet Today book, edited by Ruth Reichl. This mulled red wine has a fruity kick from kirsch and strips of lemon and orange zest. Perfect for a holiday party.

• Ready In: 20 mins
• Serves: 8-10

Ingredients

• 8  whole cloves
• 4  black peppercorns
• 4  slices lemon zest
• 4  slices orange zest
• 32  ounces dry red wine
• 4  ounces kirsch
• 1 1⁄2 cups water
• 3⁄4 cup sugar
• 1 (3 inch)  cinnamon sticks
• 1  vanilla bean, halved lengthwise

Directions

1. Place cloves, peppercorns, and zest in center of cheesecloth and tie to form a bag. Combine cheesecloth bag and remaining ingredients in 4 quart saucepan, bring to a simmer and simmer, stirring occasionally for 10 minutes.
2. Ladle wine into heatproof small glasses or cups and garnish with cinnamon sticks.