We drink Izvar [iz’var] – known as mulled wine – during cold season, to warm up or treat colds. The best-mulled wine is made of homemade wine. You bring the wine to the boil then remove it from heat; in this way, the alcohol will not evaporate and the flavors from the spices will be retained. A good, not too sweet
(I use honey instead of sugar), flavorful izvar is the best remedy for a cold winter night.
Pour the wine into a medium saucepan. Add cinnamon, black peppercorns and cloves. You can also add bay leaves, or orange zest.
When the wine starts to simmer, and the spices release beautiful flavors, add some sugar or honey and remove from heat.
It’s better not to let the wine to boil, otherwise all the alcohol will evaporate and
it will not have it’s effect. Ideally, the mulled wine is served in clay cups, because
they retain the heat better.
Ingredients
Directions
Pour the wine into a medium saucepan. Add cinnamon, black peppercorns and cloves. You can also add bay leaves, or orange zest.
When the wine starts to simmer, and the spices release beautiful flavors, add some sugar or honey and remove from heat.
It’s better not to let the wine to boil, otherwise all the alcohol will evaporate and
it will not have it’s effect. Ideally, the mulled wine is served in clay cups, because
they retain the heat better.
Notes

Crafting Izvar is a tradition that brings together the best of Moldovan hospitality and winter warmth. So, gather your ingredients, brew a pot of this delightful concoction, and savor the moments of tranquility it brings. Cheers to winter nights filled with the comforting aroma and taste of homemade Izvar!