Spiced Port & Brandy Punch

When it comes to celebrating bonfire night, few things are as inviting as a warm, spiced drink that can be shared around a roaring fire. Spiced Port and Brandy Punch is the perfect choice for such an occasion, offering rich, comforting flavours that are sure to please a crowd.

This punch combines the deep, fruity notes of ruby port with the warmth of brandy and a medley of seasonal spices, making it an ideal drink for chilly autumn evenings.

Ingredients:

• 750ml Bottle of ruby port
• 180ml Brandy
• 500ml Apple cider
• 250ml Cranberry juice
• 100ml Fresh orange juice
• 2 Tablespoons honey or brown sugar (to taste)
• 2 Cinnamon sticks
• 4-5 Whole cloves
• 1 Star anise
• 1 Orange, sliced into rounds
• 1 Lemon, sliced into rounds
• Fresh cranberries and cinnamon sticks (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Combine the ingredients: In a large pot or slow cooker, combine the ruby port, brandy, apple cider, cranberry juice, and fresh orange juice. Stir in the honey or brown sugar, adjusting to taste depending on your desired sweetness
2. Add the spices: Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and the slices of orange and lemon to the pot. These spices and citrus slices will infuse the punch with warm, fragrant flavours
3. Heat gently: Warm the mixture over low heat, allowing it to gently simmer. Be careful not to let it boil, as this could evaporate the alcohol. Let the punch simmer for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure all the flavours meld together
4. Serve: Once the punch is heated through and the spices have infused the liquid, remove it from the heat. Ladle the punch into mugs or heatproof glasses, making sure each serving includes a slice of citrus and a couple of cranberries. Garnish with an extra cinnamon stick for added flair
5. Enjoy: Serve the spiced port and brandy punch warm, and enjoy the way it fills the air with the aromas of fruit and spice. This punch is perfect for sipping slowly while enjoying the warmth of a bonfire or cosying up indoors

Spiced port and brandy punch pairs wonderfully with a variety of bonfire night treats.

• Toasted marshmallows: The sweetness of the marshmallows complements the rich, fruity flavours of the punch
• Baked apples: The warm spices in the punch mirror the flavours in a simple dessert of baked apples stuffed with cinnamon and brown sugar
• Cheese and charcuterie: A platter of sharp cheeses, cured meats, and spiced nuts provides a savoury balance to the sweetness of the punch