Make-Ahead Chilled Mulled Wine Punch

While the holiday season is all about tinsel, joy, and childlike wonder, let’s be honest for a second and admit that it can also be a time of complicated family dynamics, anxiety-inducing party planning, and somehow creating a feast (or several) that will satisfy every picky palate. So as I think of you all stirring and stewing, baking and decorating, shopping and cleaning, I wanted to create a celebratory large-format punch that had “holiday cheer” written all over it but that can be made in a few simple steps—where the first step is simply pouring a bottle of red wine into a bowl. And what says “holiday cheer” more than mulled wine?

I can picture us all multitasking, roasting something delicious, puréeing the obligatory mash, and conceiving of the ideal seating chart, so there’s no need to add a big pot of simmering red wine to the mix. This simple red wine punch offers all the flavors of classic mulled wine, with an added splash of freshness and very little work. (Plus, it can be made in advance and won’t hog your stovetop.) The key: Tart, bright cold-brewed hibiscus tea keeps this punch light and upbeat. Grand Marnier adds notes of caramelized orange peel, while the easy spiced maple syrup will conjure up memories of holiday market strolls. It all comes together with slices of seasonal citrus, generously added to the crimson-hued bowl. Pair with a deep breath—or hold it in hand while you dance the night away.

The spiced maple syrup recipe makes just a bit more than you’ll need for a batch of punch—use any extra for cozy-fying your standard old-fashioned or daiquiri or bringing your morning pancakes into a whole new dimension.