Recipe: Outdoors with Mulled Wine

THE JOY OF WINTER OUTDOOR LIVING

There's something magical about bundling up in warm layers, stepping outside, and feeling the cool breeze on your face. The Australian winter is mild enough to enjoy outdoor activities without the extreme cold, making it ideal for enjoying your garden or patio.

Imagine this: a starry night, a cozy fire pit, and the comforting aroma of mulled wine filling the air. It’s a simple yet profound way to reconnect with nature, family, and friends. Winter outdoor living encourages a slower pace, allowing you to savour life's simple pleasures. Whether it’s reading a book, hosting a small gathering, or just enjoying the serenity of a quiet evening, The Porch’s Poly Classic Adirondack chairs will provide the perfect setting.

MULLED WINE RECIPE FOR A COZY OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE

To elevate your winter outdoor experience, we’re sharing a delightful mulled wine recipe. It’s the perfect beverage to warm your hands and your heart during those chilly evenings.

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle of red wine (a fruity variety works best)

• 1 orange, sliced

• 2 tablespoons of sugar or honey

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 4 cloves

• 2 star anise

• A splash of brandy (optional)

• Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish

Instructions:

1. Combine Ingredients: Pour the red wine into a large pot or slow cooker. Add the orange slices, sugar (or honey), cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise.

2. Heat Gently: Warm the mixture over low heat, allowing it to simmer gently. Avoid boiling to prevent burning off the alcohol and losing the wine’s delicate flavours.

3. Infuse Flavours: Let the wine simmer for at least 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavours will meld together.

4. Add Brandy: If using, add a splash of brandy for an extra kick.

5. Serve: Ladle the mulled wine into mugs, garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs, and serve hot.

Embrace the beauty of winter and make the most of your outdoor space with The Porch furniture. With the right setup and a warm mug of mulled wine in hand, you’ll discover a new appreciation for the season. Cheers to outdoor winter living!

Feel free to share your favourite winter outdoor moments and The Porch furniture setups in the comments below. We love hearing how our furniture helps create beautiful memories!

Embrace Outdoor Living This Winter: Tips for a Cozy and Stylish Space

Winter might be the season when many retreat indoors, but with the right setup, your outdoor space can become a cozy haven that you can enjoy all year round. At The Porch, we specialise in Hamptons style outdoor furniture, and we believe that with a few adjustments, your garden, patio, or balcony can be as inviting in winter as it is in summer. Here are our top tips for outdoor living during the colder months.

1. Create Warmth with Outdoor Heaters and Fire Pits

The key to enjoying your outdoor space in winter is staying warm. Invest in an outdoor heater or a fire pit to provide a focal point of warmth. There’s something magical about gathering around a crackling fire, wrapped in blankets, sipping hot chocolate. Fire pits also add a beautiful ambiance and can be a stylish centerpiece for your outdoor setting.

2. Use Cozy Textiles

Transform your outdoor furniture into a cozy retreat with the use of textiles. Layer your Hamptons style Adirondack chairs, benches, and sofas with warm throws, fluffy blankets, and a variety of cushions. Opt for weather-resistant fabrics that can withstand the elements while still offering comfort and warmth. Don’t shy away from rich, deep colors and textures to add a sense of coziness.

3. Light Up the Night

Winter days are shorter, so good lighting is essential. String lights, lanterns, and outdoor lamps can create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Solar-powered lights are an eco-friendly option and can be easily moved around your space. Focus on soft, warm lighting rather than harsh, bright lights to create a relaxing ambiance.

4. Incorporate Windbreaks

Protect your outdoor space from chilly winds by using windbreaks. These can be in the form of screens, trellises with climbing plants, or even strategically placed furniture. Not only do windbreaks make your space more comfortable, but they also add an element of privacy and can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your garden.

5. Arrange for Easy Access to Warm Drinks

A well-placed outdoor bar cart or a small table for a hot drink station can add to the winter outdoor living experience. Keep a thermos of hot chocolate, tea, or mulled wine handy, along with a set of mugs. This not only keeps you warm but also adds a charming and functional touch to your outdoor setup.

6. Add Greenery

Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean your garden has to be bare. Use planter boxes and obelisks to incorporate evergreen plants, winter flowers, and hardy shrubs that can withstand the cold. The greenery will add life to your outdoor space and can make it feel more inviting.

7. Create a Shelter

A simple pergola, gazebo, or a large umbrella can provide shelter from the rain and wind, making your outdoor space usable even in winter weather. You can decorate these structures with fairy lights and hang blankets over the sides to create a tent-like cozy feel.

8. Focus on Maintenance

Winter can be tough on outdoor furniture, so regular maintenance is key. Ensure your timber Adirondack chairs, benches, and planter boxes are properly sealed and protected from the elements. Cover your furniture when not in use, and clean and dry cushions and blankets regularly to prevent mold and mildew.

9. Design for Comfort

Arrange your furniture to maximize comfort and warmth. Create intimate seating areas that encourage conversation and relaxation. Use rugs to define spaces and provide an extra layer of insulation against the cold ground.

10. Enjoy the Little Things

Finally, embrace the unique beauty of winter. Enjoy the crisp air, the peacefulness, and the chance to slow down and appreciate the season. With the right setup, your outdoor space can be a perfect retreat for relaxation and enjoyment, even in the colder months.

At The Porch, we offer a range of Hamptons style outdoor furniture that is perfect for creating a cozy and stylish winter outdoor living space. From our elegant timber Adirondack chairs to our sturdy planter boxes and garden benches, we have everything you need to transform your garden into a winter wonderland. Browse our collection and start planning your perfect outdoor retreat today.

We hope these tips inspire you to make the most of your outdoor space this winter. With a bit of creativity and the right furniture, your garden can be a warm and inviting haven all year round. Happy winter outdoor living!