'Tis the season for holiday parties! I'm bringing the food and beverages to a cookie exchange this week, and I've decided to make some mulled wine for the occasion. Wine people tell you when you're cooking with wine or using it as a base for other drinks, you still want something drinkable, and I absolutely agree with that. But I wouldn't waste a $20 bottle in a heated, spiked drink or on a big crowd of party-goers. Instead, I turn to box wine as the ideal party wine. Why?- Box wine is inexpensive (around $20 for the equivalent of four bottles), and the quality has gotten much, much better over the years.
- Boxes are lightweight, easier to transport, and greener than glass bottles, so when you're serving in quantity, those numbers add up.
- Box wines stay fresh for a month after opening because of the vacuum seal, unlike bottles, which should be refrigerated and drunk within 3 days if possible.
Here are a few decent box wines to try:
Bota Box Pinot Grigio or Shiraz ($16)
Black Box Merlot or Shiraz ($22)
Banrock Station Chardonnay or Shiraz ($19)
My mulled wine recipe is after the jump.
Mulled Wine for a Crowd (serves 24)
1 3-liter box of fruity red wine (such as Shiraz or Merlot)
2 cups brandy
1 1/2 to 2 cups sugar (to taste)
1 lemon, sliced
1 orange, sliced
6 cinnamon sticks
1 teaspoon whole cloves
1 tablespoon whole allspice
Combine all in a large saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes. Strain fruit slices and spices and serve warm.
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