Crafting a batch of homemade vin chaud is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket, as the aroma of spices and citrus fills the air and soothes your senses. The fusion of deep red wine with warming spices and a hint of Grand Marnier creates a medley of flavors that feels like a hug in a mug, perfect for those chilly evenings by the fireside.

Jump to Recipe

A photo of Vin Chaud Au Grand Marnier Recipe

I enjoy creating soothing winter drinks, and my all-time favorite is Vin Chaud au Grand Marnier. This restorative potion combines the rich warmth of red wine with the intoxicating flavors of cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, and somehow makes even the coldest December night feel as cozy as a sun-drenched hammock.

Slices of orange and lemon lend the drink its bright and sassy personality, while a splash of Grand Marnier guarantees that you won’t be going back out into the cold any time soon.

Vin Chaud Au Grand Marnier Recipe Ingredients

Ingredients photo for Vin Chaud Au Grand Marnier Recipe

Print Recipe (No Advertisments)

–

  • Red Wine: Rich in antioxidants, provides heart health benefits.

    • –

  • Grand Marnier: Adds citrusy, sweet orange flavor, enhances aroma.

    • –

  • Honey: Natural sweetener, offers a touch of floral richness.

    • –

  • Orange: Supplies vitamin C, lends a zesty citrus twist.

    • –

  • Lemon: Adds tanginess, balances sweetness with a hint of sour.

    • –

  • Cinnamon Sticks: Aromatic spice, adds warmth and mild sweetness.

    • –

  • Cloves: Provides a warm, sweet-spicy flavor, enhances depth.

    • –

  • Star Anise: Infuses licorice-like aroma, offers a unique spice note.

    • Vin Chaud Au Grand Marnier Recipe Ingredient Quantities

    “`html

    • 1 bottle (750ml) of red wine (e.g., Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)

    • 1/4 cup Grand Marnier

    • 1/4 cup honey or sugar

    • 1 orange, sliced

    • 1 lemon, sliced

    • 2 cinnamon sticks

    • 4 cloves

    • 1 star anise

    • Optional: a few slices of fresh ginger

    “`

    How to Make this Vin Chaud Au Grand Marnier Recipe

    Print Recipe (No Advertisments)

    1. Empty the bottle of red wine into a large saucepan or pot. Set the pan over medium heat.

    2. Add to the saucepan the Grand Marnier, and stir gently to combine with the wine.

    3. Adjust the sweetness to your preference by stirring in honey or sugar.

    4. Put the pot into which the sliced orange and lemon have been added.

    5. Add the cinnamon sticks, the cloves, and the star anise.

    6. If desired, add a few slices of fresh ginger for extra warmth and flavor.

    7. Warm the mixture slowly, taking care that it does not boil. Target a temperature slightly under boiling.

    8. Let the mixture simmer for around 20–25 minutes, and allow the flavors to mix and mingle.

    9. The mixture should be carefully strained to remove the fruit slices and spices.

    10. Present the vin chaud in glasses or mugs that can withstand the heat, and slice an orange to use as a garnish with optional cinnamon sticks. The warmth you feel will not be just from holding the mug.

    Vin Chaud Au Grand Marnier Recipe Equipment Needed

    1. Large saucepan or pot
    2. Stirring spoon
    3. Knife for slicing fruits
    4. Cutting board
    5. Strainer
    6. Glasses or mugs (heatproof)
    7. Ladle (optional) for serving

    FAQ

    • What type of red wine should I use for Vin Chaud?A medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon is best for a balanced and flavorful profile.

    • Can I substitute the honey with another sweetener?Certainly! Feel free to use sugar or any other sweetener of choice, such as maple syrup or agave nectar.

    • How should I heat the Vin Chaud?Warm the blend over low heat and take care not to let it bubble. You want to keep the wine’s subtle flavors intact, as well as its alcohol.

    • Is it necessary to use Grand Marnier?A delightful orange liqueur note comes from the Grand Marnier, but you can substitute another orange-flavored liqueur or leave it out if you’d like.

    • What can I use as a substitute for star anise?A pinch of anise seeds may be used, or they may be left out altogether, for a flavor that is less like licorice.

    • How long should I let the spices infuse?Allow the spices to steep on low heat for a minimum of 20 minutes. If you prefer a stronger flavor, steep them for a longer time.

    • Can I prepare Vin Chaud in advance?You can prepare it beforehand and simply warm it up before serving, but don’t let it boil.

    Vin Chaud Au Grand Marnier Recipe Substitutions and Variations

    Red wine: Substitute with a bottle of white wine or a nonalcoholic red wine for a different angle.
    Cointreau, Triple Sec, or a splash of orange juice can be used in place of Grand Marnier.
    Substitutes for honey or sugar: Use agave syrup, maple syrup, or brown sugar. They have a ricer flavor, which is nice in baked goods.
    Blood oranges or mandarins give a different twist to the citrus note in these dishes.
    Lemon: Substitute lime instead for a flavor that is more tangy.

    Pro Tips

    1. Choice of Wine: Opt for a dry red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. These wines have rich flavors that pair well with the added spices and citrus.

    2. Experiment with Sweeteners: If you find honey or sugar too sweet, consider using maple syrup or agave nectar for a different flavor profile.

    3. Enhance with Aromatics: Adding a few extra spices, like a pinch of nutmeg or a cracked cardamom pod, can deepen the flavor complexity of the drink.

    4. Controlled Warming: Keep a thermometer handy to ensure the mixture doesn’t exceed 170°F (77°C). This helps prevent the alcohol from evaporating and maintains the balance of flavors.

    5. Alcohol Variations: If you’d like a stronger alcoholic kick, include a splash of brandy or kirsch instead of, or in addition to, the Grand Marnier for a distinct twist.

    Photo of Vin Chaud Au Grand Marnier Recipe

    Please enter your email to print the recipe:

    Vin Chaud Au Grand Marnier Recipe

    My favorite Vin Chaud Au Grand Marnier Recipe

    Print Recipe

    Equipment Needed:

    1. Large saucepan or pot
    2. Stirring spoon
    3. Knife for slicing fruits
    4. Cutting board
    5. Strainer
    6. Glasses or mugs (heatproof)
    7. Ladle (optional) for serving

    Ingredients:

    “`html

    • 1 bottle (750ml) of red wine (e.g., Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)

    • 1/4 cup Grand Marnier

    • 1/4 cup honey or sugar

    • 1 orange, sliced

    • 1 lemon, sliced

    • 2 cinnamon sticks

    • 4 cloves

    • 1 star anise

    • Optional: a few slices of fresh ginger

    “`

    Instructions:

    1. Empty the bottle of red wine into a large saucepan or pot. Set the pan over medium heat.

    2. Add to the saucepan the Grand Marnier, and stir gently to combine with the wine.

    3. Adjust the sweetness to your preference by stirring in honey or sugar.

    4. Put the pot into which the sliced orange and lemon have been added.

    5. Add the cinnamon sticks, the cloves, and the star anise.

    6. If desired, add a few slices of fresh ginger for extra warmth and flavor.

    7. Warm the mixture slowly, taking care that it does not boil. Target a temperature slightly under boiling.

    8. Let the mixture simmer for around 20–25 minutes, and allow the flavors to mix and mingle.

    9. The mixture should be carefully strained to remove the fruit slices and spices.

    10. Present the vin chaud in glasses or mugs that can withstand the heat, and slice an orange to use as a garnish with optional cinnamon sticks. The warmth you feel will not be just from holding the mug.