Ingredients:

  • 1 large apple, such as Honeycrisp or Gala, cored and sliced (about 200g / 7 oz)
  • 1 orange, sliced (about 150g / 5 oz)
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries (100g / 3.5 oz)
  • 3 cinnamon sticks
  • 6 whole cloves
  • 2 star anise (optional)
  • 1 (750ml) bottle dry red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon
  • 1 cup apple cider (240ml / 8 fl oz)
  • 1/2 cup brandy (120ml / 4 fl oz)
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup, or to taste (60ml / 2 fl oz)
  • 1 liter chilled sparkling water or ginger ale
  • Apple slices, orange wedges, and cranberries for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Slice the apple and orange.
  2. In a large pitcher, combine the sliced apple, orange, cranberries, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise (if using).
  3. Pour in the red wine, apple cider, and brandy.
  4. Stir in the maple syrup, adjusting to your desired sweetness.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. Just before serving, top with chilled sparkling water or ginger ale.
  7. Garnish with additional apple slices, orange wedges, and cranberries, if desired.