Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (200 grams) Granulated Sugar
  • 1 cup (240 ml) Water
  • 4 large Cinnamon Sticks
  • 1 teaspoon Whole Cloves
  • 3 pieces Star Anise
  • 4 cups (960 ml) Cranberry Juice Cocktail, chilled
  • 4 cups (960 ml) High-Quality Apple Cider, chilled
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 4 cups (960 ml) Ginger Ale (or Club Soda), well chilled
  • 1/2 cup (80 grams) Fresh Cranberries
  • 1 medium Gala or Honeycrisp Apple, thinly sliced
  • 6-8 small Fresh Rosemary Sprigs (Optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Spiced Simple Syrup: In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, 1 cup of water, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and star anise.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved (approx. 2-3 minutes).
  3. Simmer and Steep: Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow the spices to steep in the hot syrup for 20-30 minutes, or until the syrup is room temperature.
  4. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean jar or bowl, discarding the spices. Ensure the syrup is thoroughly chilled.
  5. Combine the Punch Base: In the large punch bowl, pour in the chilled cranberry juice, apple cider, fresh lemon juice, and the cooled Spiced Simple Syrup. Taste and adjust tartness if necessary.
  6. Assemble and Garnish: Fill the punch bowl halfway with high-quality ice (or an ice ring). Just before serving, slowly pour in the chilled Ginger Ale (or sparkling wine). Do not stir vigorously.
  7. Scatter the fresh cranberries, thin apple slices, and rosemary sprigs into the liquid or artfully around the rim.
  8. Serve immediately with a ladle and small punch glasses, topping up fizz and ice as required.