During the past couple of weeks, signs advertising vin chaud have been popping up all over France. In the local cafés, vin chaud is written in chalk on the “specials” board, and the vendors at the many celebrated Christmas Markets are prepared to warm up the crowds with their versions of vin chaud. While many countries have their form of mulled wine, in France it’s vin chaud, which literally means “hot wine.” Drinking a glass of vin chaud is sure to warm you up on the coldest of days, but it is also extremely easy to make yourself.
People began making vin chaud as a way of saving wine that had gone bad. By adding sugar and spices, the wine was again drinkable. This doesn’t mean, however, that you should reach for the half bottle of red wine that’s been sitting out for a few weeks. You can make vin chaud from almost any type of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Beaujolais Nouveau). Be careful not to boil the wine, and be sure to serve with a slice of orange. Vin chaud is also a great accompaniment for pain d’épices, a French spice cake that is similar to gingerbread.
Vin Chaud
1 bottle of red wine 2 tablespoons unrefined cane sugar (cassonade) 1 cinnamon stick4 whole cloves zest of 1 orange zest of 1 lemon .
Combine the above ingredients in a large pot and slowly bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat and let simmer for 20 minutes. Remove from heat, cover, and let steep for another 10 minutes.
Pass the mulled wine through a sieve, and serve with a slice of orange.
