I'm not a great ale fan but obviously many are, and as craft breweries are producing some amazing ales a punch made with ale seemed to fit the bill.

This recipe produces a smooth drink with a hint of apple and spice from the Makers & Merchants Mulled Cider Syrup which works perfectly with the ale. A real party pleaser on a cold winters night served with a bowl of spiced cashew nuts.

Makes about 2 litres / 8 - 12 servings

Ingredients

125g light muscovado sugar

600ml water

1.25 litres of ale

300ml cider brandy

Makers & Merchants Mulled Cider Syrup

Juice of one lemon

2 whole cloves

Method

Put the sugar into a pan with the water and heat gently until dissolved. Bring to the boil and cook for 2 minutes.

Reduce the heat and add the Makers & Merchants Mulled Cider Syrup, ale, brandy, cloves and lemon juice. Heat gently for 10 minutes to combine the flavours. Do not boil. Serve in heatproof glasses - Our Surface Red Wine Glass or Fish&Fish glasses are perfect.