Ingredients:

  • 4 cups Cranberry Juice (100% pure, unsweetened)
  • 2 cups Water
  • 1 1/2 cups Granulated Sugar
  • 2 inches Fresh Ginger (peeled and roughly sliced)
  • 4 large Cinnamon Sticks
  • 1 tablespoon Whole Cloves
  • 4 pods Star Anise
  • Zest of 1 large Orange (removed in large strips)
  • 2 Bay Leaves (Optional)
  • 1 cup Freshly squeezed Clementine Juice
  • 1 1/2 cups Dark Aged Rum OR Brandy (Optional)
  • 6 cups Sparkling Ginger Ale (Chilled)
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Cranberries (for garnish)
  • 2 Clementine Slices (for garnish)
  • 6-8 small Rosemary Sprigs (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Combine the cranberry juice, water, granulated sugar, ginger, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, orange zest, and bay leaves in the large saucepan.
  2. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved.
  3. Reduce the heat immediately to the lowest setting and let the mixture gently simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat, cover it, and allow the cordial to steep and cool slightly for 30 minutes. This allows the spices to properly infuse.
  5. Pour the cordial through a fine-mesh sieve (or a sieve lined with muslin) into a clean, airtight container, ensuring all solids are removed. Discard the spices and zest.
  6. Cover the strained cordial and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until thoroughly chilled.
  7. Prepare Ice Ring: Fill the ring mould or bundt tin 3/4 full with water. Arrange fresh cranberries, clementine slices, and rosemary sprigs in the mould for decoration. Freeze until solid (at least 4 hours).
  8. Combine Juices: Pour the chilled spiced cordial and the fresh clementine juice into the punch bowl. Stir well to combine.
  9. Add Spirit (Optional): If using alcohol, pour in the rum or brandy now and stir gently.
  10. Add Ice: Carefully place the decorative ice ring into the centre of the punch bowl.
  11. Top with Fizz: Just before serving, slowly pour the chilled sparkling ginger ale over the mixture. Do not stir vigorously.
  12. Final Garnish: Float remaining clementine slices and fresh cranberries in the bowl for presentation. Serve immediately with a ladle.