With the official arrival of winter, chocolate and red wine have become people's common preferences, which help break the dullness of winter. As the ultimate drink against the cold, this red wine hot chocolate is rich and decadent. Most foodies and wine connoisseurs will agree that chocolate and wine are natural companions. Both are very complex and full-bodied, some have a sweet taste, and some have a bitter taste. The general rule of matching is that the sweetness or richness of wine should be balanced with the sweetness or richness of chocolate.  

The recipe starts with three simple ingredients: milk, wine and chocolate. Red wine hot chocolate is very inclusive and can be adjusted according to personal preferences. For something sweeter, you can use fruity wines such as Pinot Noir or Grenache instead of dry red wines. Stirring a cup of this intoxicating hot chocolate is very simple. First heat the milk in a pan, add the chocolate and slowly melt, then gradually add the red wine and stir until hot. In this way, a silky, decadent, velvety gorgeous and delicious drink was made.

Required raw materials

• ½ cup dark chocolate chunks

• 1 cup of milk

• ½ glass of red wine (Pinot Noir, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, etc., choose your favorite)

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

• Marshmallow

• Cocoa powder 

Optional ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of sugar

• a pinch of salt

• Foaming cream 

Recipe steps

• Add the chocolate chunks, red wine, milk, and sugar (if using) to a small saucepan over medium-low heat.

• Stir constantly and heat until the chocolate chunks are completely melted and well mixed.

• Remove from heat, add vanilla and salt (if using), stir to combine.

• Pour into your favorite cup, add marshmallows and sprinkle with cocoa powder as needed, or squeeze in foaming cream for decoration.

Hint

If you use sugar, add it with chocolate, milk, and wine. If you are not sure whether to add sugar or not, I suggest you taste it first, and then add it if you want the drink to be sweeter.

 Lydia Zhao POINT PLUME