As we reach the grand finale of your 24-day journey through the Red Wine Advent Calendar, it’s time to indulge in a rich, festive, and delightfully unexpected treat that will cap off the season in style. This Spicy Chocolate Red Wine combines the warmth and boldness of a deep red wine with the indulgence of chocolate and a subtle, spicy kick. Perfect for cozy nights by the fire or as a celebratory sip on Christmas Eve, this cocktail blends the velvety smoothness of Cocoa Cayenne Cabernet with the sweet richness of chocolate liqueur and a dash of chili powder, creating a drink that’s both decadent and exciting.
Let's raise a glass to the end of a memorable Advent journey and savor the complex, festive flavors that capture the essence of the holiday spirit!
Ingredients:
- 3 ounces Cocoa Cayenne Cabernet
- 1 ounce chocolate liqueur (like Godiva or crème de cacao)
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste for spice level)
- 1-2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup (optional, to taste)
- A pinch of cinnamon (optional for extra warmth)
- Whipped cream (for garnish)
- Dark chocolate shavings or cocoa powder (for garnish)
- A dash of chili flakes (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Heat the Wine: In a small saucepan over low heat, gently warm the Cocoa Cayenne Cabernet until it’s hot but not boiling—about 3-5 minutes. You want to bring the wine to a comfortable sipping temperature (around 160°F/70°C) without letting it lose its depth of flavor by overheating.
- Mix the Ingredients: Once the wine is warm, pour it into a heatproof mug or festive glass. Add the chocolate liqueur and stir gently to combine. The liqueur will add a velvety sweetness that perfectly complements the deep, rich red wine.
- Spice it Up: Add the chili powder to the mixture, starting with just a dash and adjusting to your preferred spice level. Stir well to ensure the chili powder fully dissolves into the drink, giving it that signature warm heat. If you like a little extra warmth, add a pinch of cinnamon to the mix—this will enhance the holiday vibes of your drink.
- Sweeten (Optional): For those who enjoy a slightly sweeter drink, drizzle in honey or maple syrup to taste. Stir until fully dissolved. The sweetness will balance out the spice and create a smooth, round flavor profile that’s comforting and festive.
- Garnish and Serve: Pour the spicy chocolate red wine into a mug or glass and top with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a truly festive touch, sprinkle dark chocolate shavings or a light dusting of cocoa powder on top. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle a pinch of chili flakes for an extra burst of heat and visual appeal.
- Sip and Enjoy: Take your first sip and let the complex flavors unfold—rich, smooth chocolate, bold red wine, and the tantalizing warmth of chili spice. The whipped cream adds a creamy texture that melts into the drink, and the chocolate garnish enhances the overall indulgent experience.
Tips:
- Adjust Spice Levels:If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of chili powder and chili flakes. You can also use a milder chili powder (like ancho chili powder) for a more subdued spice.
- Try Different Chocolate Liqueurs: For a variation on the drink, experiment with different types of chocolate liqueurs, such as white chocolate liqueur or dark chocolate liqueur, depending on the flavor profile you prefer.
- Non-Alcoholic Version:For a non-alcoholic version, replace the wine with a rich, spiced grape juice or a strong brewed black tea. Add the chocolate liqueur and spices as directed, and top with whipped cream for a cozy, warming treat.