From within the bioluminescent den of a Haranir, this spiced white wine captures the warm, fragrant flavours of a woodland feast.
This post was created in paid partnership with Blizzard to celebrate World of Warcraft: Midnight.
the Bioluminescent Den of a Haranir
As we journey through Azeroth, we are welcomed into the bioluminescent den of a Haranir where a warm drink is prepared beneath the softly glowing light. A golden-hued spiced white wine is steeped over a gentle flame with aromatic botanicals, herbs, and spices gathered from the forest. The bright acidity and light body of the white wine is tempered with a splash of white port adding a greater depth of flavour. Honey adds a touch of sweetness to round out this warm and fragrant mulled spiced wine.
Ingredients
White wine: While red wine might be a favourite when making mulled wine, the light body and bright acidity of white wine creates a distinctly milder and fresher tasting mulled wine. I recommend choosing a wine such as a Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, or Riesling. A white Bordeaux blend would also work well. Avoid overly floral wines such as a Gewurztraminer or Muscat which might clash with the spices or a heavy oaked Chardonnay which could overpower the herbal flavours.
White port: Port is a fortified wine which is made by adding a grape spirit to wine part way through the fermentation period. It has a higher alcohol content and is sweeter than regular wine. While port is often made with red wine, some producers do make a version using white wine. A sweet sherry would make a suitable substitute.
Aromatics: This mulled wine uses a blend of citrus, fresh herbs and whole spices. The delicate herbal notes from the herbs really shine through with the white wine base while the spices add complexity and bite to this warm beverage. You can easily customize this recipe by adjusting which herbs and spices you use.
Honey: Honey is used to sweeten this mulled wine. While you could certainly use white sugar, the delicate flavour of honey pairs beautifully with the white port and aromatics.
How to Make Mulled Spiced White Wine
In a saucepan, combine the white wine, white port, orange slices, fresh rosemary sprigs, bay leaves, star anise, allspice berries, cloves, pink peppercorns and cardamom pods. Place over medium heat and allow the wine to warm up. Turn the heat down to low as it begins to simmer. Cover and allow to steep on low for 20 to 30 minutes. Do not allow the wine to boil which would evaporate the alcohol.
After steeping, add the honey and stir to dissolve. Remove the orange slices and herbs from the mulled wine. Carefully strain the warm wine into a pitcher or teapot to serve. Garnish each glass with a sprig of rosemary and a few whole spices. Enjoy!
