Avio Hot Mulled Wine Recipe

6 whole allspice berries

1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns

2 whole star anise

3 cinnamon sticks

1 (1-inch) piece fresh ginger, sliced

3 large strips orange zest

3 large strips lemon zest

6-inch sprig of Lavender

2 (750-ml) bottles any Avio red wine (we like Sangiovese)

3/4 cup honey

In the basket of a commercial coffee percolator place the allspice berries, peppercorns, star anise, cinnamon sticks, ginger and citrus zest. Pour the wine and honey into the percolator. Attach basket, cover and let percolate for 1 to 2 hours. Serve hot. This ia a little spicy so less pepper corns to taste, or add honey to taste.

If you don't have a percolator, use a large saucepan or dutch oven. Wrap the first 8 ingredients in cheescloth and drop into the wine and honey mixture. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cook for 2 hours. You could even try this in a slow cooker!

Wine and Community - Part 1

In these very challenging economic times, many in our community are wondering how they can make Christmas special for their children.  I believe that we have a responsibility to share our good fortune with those who need a hand.  Personally and professionally I have made a point of reaching out to The Amador Interfaith Food Bank to share some of what I have with others.  Our customers have joined us in this endeavor by participating in a food drive at the winery.  

With Christmas fast approaching, the news outlets are reminding us daily that we need to think beyond our front doors.  There are countless agencies in every community who are falling far short of their goals, this year.  I’d like to encourage our Wine Community to rise to this challenge.  Whether it’s a toy donation to Toys for Tots, a food or monetary donation to your local food bank, a warm coat you’re no longer using, or a day of service at a shelter in your community; someone will have a merrier Christmas if you reach out.  There are so many organizations out there doing good works; something is bound to resonate with you.  Please join me in sharing the joy the Wine Community can bring to others.  When you’ve done so, please share your experience by making a comment on this Blog.  Let’s show the world that we can make a difference!