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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.

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 Cheers to all, and to all a good night!