Mulled Champagne / Sparkling Wine Cocktail

Mulled wine and Champagne might sound bizarre… but it can actually work!

To make the mulled Bellini, you will need a mulled wine syrup (either bought or made) combined with any type of bubbly – Champagne, Prosecco, Cava etc. – which will create a fizzy and spicy Christmas drink.

If you want to make the mulled wine reduction  yourself, you’ll need…

• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 2 2/3 handfuls of cloves
• 15 black peppercorns
• 20 star anise
• 1 pinch of mace
• nutmeg
• 2l red wine

Combine these ingredients in a saucepan. Bring to the boil then simmer.

Stir in 500g caster sugar to the mixture and continue to simmer until it has reduced by half. Allow to cool. Strain the mixture.

Cocktail

Add 25ml of your mulled wine reduction to the glass, add a dash of lemon juice then top up with sparkling wine. Add cranberries for garnish.

Pair with a couple mince pies or a slice of Christmas pudding and enjoy!

Recipe from the Great British Chefs