Bar Humbug

Rachel Rose Reid has kindly shared this recipe - a delicious alternative to mulled wine. My mouth is watering just thinking about it.

Smoking Bishop

“A Merry Christmas, Bob!” said Scrooge. "I’ll raise your salary, and endeavor to assist your struggling family, and we will discuss your affairs this very afternoon over a bowl of Smoking Bishop"
A Christmas Carol, Charles Dickens

In the Victorian era there were a series of drinks named after clerical levels. Popes were made from Burgundy, Cardinals from Champagne or rye, Archbishops from Claret and Bishops from Port.

The recipe involves a resting period of 12-24 hours, so bear that in mind when preparing it. Feel free to use the cheapest wine and port to hand, as once steamed with the other ingredients its quality will not matter too much!

Ingredients
1 white grapefruit
5 oranges
150 grams sugar
2 bottles red wine
1 bottle Port
approx. 30 cloves

Method
1. Bake grapefruit and oranges in an oven until golden brown
2. Remove from oven and stick several cloves in each one
3. Place fruit in glass / earthenware bowl along with sugar and red wine.
4. Cover and leave in a warm place for 12-24 hour
5. Remove fruit, cut open and squeeze all the juice into the bowl
6. Place a pan on a low heat and sieve mixture in, to remove any pips, pith and cloves.
7. Add the bottle of port. DO NOT BOIL!
8. Serve in warmed punch glasses if you have them and sup with delight

Cheers!