Krassomelo: Traditional Greek Warm Spiced Wine with Honey

• Cinnamon stick1
• Honey60ml (4 tablespoons)
• Orange peelpeel from half an orange
• Cloves4-5
• Water120ml
• Red wine750ml

How to Make It

• 1

  Gather your ingredients: one 750ml bottle of dry red wine, 60ml (4 tablespoons) of Greek honey, one cinnamon stick, 4-5 whole cloves, the peel from half an orange, and 120ml of water. Ensure your orange peel is free of white pith for a less bitter taste.

• 2

  In a medium saucepan, combine the water, honey, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the honey is fully dissolved and the spices release their aroma, about 2-3 minutes.

• 3

  Carefully add the red wine to the saucepan, along with the orange peel. Reduce the heat to low. This is a crucial step to avoid boiling the wine and losing its delicate alcohol and flavors.

• 4

  Allow the krassomelo to gently heat through for about 5-7 minutes. You want it warm enough to be comforting, but not simmering or boiling. You'll notice steam rising and the aromas intensifying.

• 5

  Once warmed, remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully strain the krassomelo through a fine-mesh sieve into a heatproof pitcher or directly into individual heatproof mugs to remove the spices and orange peel.

• 6

  Serve your krassomelo immediately in heatproof glasses or mugs, perhaps garnished with a fresh cinnamon stick or a thin orange slice for an extra touch of warmth and presentation. Enjoy this comforting Greek winter drink!