Ingredients

  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 whole cloves
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 2 star anise
  • 1 vanilla pod, split
  • 3 thin slices fresh ginger
  • 1 (750 ml) bottle Rioja or dry Spanish red wine
  • 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1/8 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1 orange, cut into quarter-wheels
  • 1 lemon, cut into wheels
  • 1 cup seeded and cubed honeydew melon
  • 1 cup red grapes, halved

Method

  • In a heavy medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the water, sugar, cloves, cinnamon, star anise, vanilla pod, and ginger.
  • Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook for 10 minutes.
  • Turn off the heat and let sit for 30 minutes to infuse.
  • Strain into a large bowl.
  • Add the wine, juices, and fruits and stir well.
  • Refrigerate overnight.
  • Serve from pitchers over lots of ice.