Spiced Wine Recipe

What special drinks do you enjoy this time of year? This spiced wine recipe is my family’s favorite drink at all our winter season celebrations.

What Is the Best Wine for Spiced Wine?

This spiced wine recipe calls for red wine, and you can choose whether you prefer a dry or semidry red wine, or something sweeter like a port wine. You do not need to use an expensive wine since it will be mixed with spices. A medium- or full-bodied red can stand up to the spices better than a very light or subtle wine.

Red wine contains antioxidants and can be considered heart healthy when consumed in moderation. Studies have shown that resveratrol, a naturally occurring polyphenol in red wine, may help reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, prevent damage to blood vessels and prevent blood clots.

If you or your family don’t drink alcohol, you can use non-alcoholic wine or substitute a combination of red grape juice and pomegranate juice in the recipe.

You can also find more yummy, festive and healthy recipes (with and without alcohol) in my Herbal Holiday Drinks ebook. Click here to get your FREE Herbal Holiday Drinks 

What Spices to Add to Wine?

People have been simmering wine with spices for a very long time — at least as far back as Rome in the 2nd century! There have been many different spiced wine recipes and traditions around the world. Besides offering delicious flavors and aromas, the spices can also provide health benefits. The ingredients in my spiced wine recipe help to support winter wellness and digestion, which is especially beneficial when eating heavy winter meals. 

Juniper Berry

Juniper berries (Juniperus communis) are an anti-inflammatory and circulatory stimulant. All purple and blue foods contain flavonoids that are most commonly known for stimulating antioxidant activity in the body. Juniper berries contain a treasure trove of flavonoids that strengthen connective tissues in arteries and veins. They protect against allergens, carcinogens, and inflammation. Just a few berries go a long way.

Fennel Seed

Fennel seed (Foeniculum vulgare) is one of the best herbs for settling a nervous, upset stomach. It is a reliable antispasmodic and one of the best remedies for abdominal cramping associated with poor digestion. The aromatic, carminative properties of fennel help with nausea, belching, and bloating caused by indigestion. Fennel has a delicious flavor and aroma that most people enjoy. Drinking or chewing on fennel seed in the winter can help digest heavy meals.

Ginger

The warmth of ginger root (Zingiber officinale) fills our tea, honey, and cordials all winter long. Ginger root is truly the universal medicine. It helps with colds and flu, increases circulation, gets rid of mucus congestion, settles an upset stomach, relieves aches and pains, and stimulates digestion. Fresh ginger contains a proteolytic enzyme that reduces inflammation. With so many healing benefits, experiment with how you like to use ginger in your kitchen!

Clove

Clove (Eugenia caryophyllata) is the dried flower bud of a tropical plant. One of my top healing holiday spices, clove gives foods and drinks a pleasantly rich, warm aroma. Clove opens the sinuses, encourage mental clarity, and resolve phlegm. This aromatic spice is also antibacterial. You can suck on clove when you have a toothache, cook it into sweet and savory dishes, and sprinkle it in your coffee.

I would love to hear from you! What are your favorite drinks for winter celebrations? Do you plan to make this spiced wine recipe? Please share in the comments below.

Print Recipe

Spiced Wine

Author: Kami McBride

Ingredients

• 1 bottle red wine
• 1 tsp juniper berries
• 1 tsp whole fennel seeds
• 1/4 tsp minced fresh ginger
• 1 whole clove
• Optional garnishes: orange slice, cinnamon stick, etc.

Instructions

• In a large pot over low heat, combine all the ingredients.
• Bring to a simmer, turn the heat to the lowest setting, and serve warm.
• Garnish, if desired.