Ingredients:

  • 2 large Honeycrisp apples, sliced into thin wedges
  • 1 large Granny Smith apple, cubed
  • 1 large orange, sliced into half-moons
  • 0.5 cup fresh cranberries
  • 1.5 liters dry red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec)
  • 3 cups unfiltered apple cider
  • 0.5 cup brandy or apple jack
  • 0.25 cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 2 star anise pods
  • 2 cups sparkling apple cider

Instructions:

  1. Prep the apples. Slice the Honeycrisp into thin wedges and cube the Granny Smith. Note: Keeping the skins on adds beautiful color to the pitcher.
  2. Slice the orange. Cut into half moons, removing any seeds you see.
  3. Layer the fruit. Place apples, oranges, and cranberries into the bottom of your large pitcher.
  4. Add the aromatics. Drop in your 2 cinnamon sticks and 2 star anise pods.
  5. Pour the spirits. Add the brandy and the maple syrup directly over the fruit.
  6. Incorporate the cider. Pour in the 3 cups of unfiltered apple cider.
  7. Add the wine. Pour in both bottles of red wine. Stir gently 10 times to ensure the syrup is incorporated.
  8. Chill and macerate. Cover and place in the fridge for 4 hours. Wait until the liquid looks deep and dark.
  9. The final touch. Just before serving, pour in the sparkling cider. Watch for the fizz and bubbles to rise.
  10. Serve. Pour into glasses, making sure each guest gets a few pieces of fruit.