Nitty Gritty Walnut Wine
Inspired by vin de noix (French) and nocino (Italian), this heady and rich walnut wine is spicy and soul warming. This recipe indicates proportions as prepared in a half gallon jar. Feel free to use your imagination
- English or Black Walnuts (or a combination of both) halved or quartered
- 1 bottle dry white whine inexpensive chardonnay is excellent here
- Brandy or vodka
- 6 cinnamon sticks
- 2 Tablespoons whole cloves
- 2 star anise pods
- 1 zest of an orange
- Honey
In a sterile half gallon jar, place halved and quartered walnuts, spices, zest and wine. Add brandy or vodka to fill the remaining space in the jar. Wine and liquor proportion should be approximately 2/3 wine to 1/3 liquor.
Allow to steep for 2-8 months, depending on your preference, until the wine is a deep dark brown and aromatic.
Strain through muslin. Sweeten with honey to taste.
Bottle and allow to rest for a few weeks, giving time for the flavors to meld.
Serve in small wine or cordial glasses.