Modern Conditum Paradoxum

Modern Conditum Paradoxum

A contemporary take on the ancient Roman spiced wine, conditum paradoxum, featuring traditional flavors with modern mixology techniques.

Ingredients:

  • 1 bottle (750ml) of red wine (preferably a full-bodied variety like Cabernet Sauvignon)
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1/2 cup pitted dates
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Instructions:

  1. In a large saucepan, combine the red wine, honey, peppercorns, bay leaves, dates, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
  2. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the honey is fully dissolved and the spices have infused the wine, about 30 minutes. Do not let the mixture boil.
  3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
  4. Strain the wine through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bottle or pitcher, discarding the solids.
  5. Chill the conditum paradoxum in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
  6. Serve the spiced wine chilled, garnished with a slice of orange or a cinnamon stick, if desired.