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Easy Red Wine Jelly

Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Condiment
Cuisine: French
Keyword: Jam
Author: Shelly

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Ladle
  • jars with lids
  • jar lifter (for Method 2)

Ingredients

  • 750 ml 1 bottle red wine
  • 1 sprig rosemary - optional
  • 10 chili flakes
  • ½ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1.75 ounces 50g powdered pectin
  • 4½ cups granulated sugar

Instructions

Choose Your Method: This recipe offers two options: refrigerator/freezer storage (simpler, shorter shelf life) or water bath canning (longer shelf life, pantry-stable).

  • METHOD 1: Refrigerator/Freezer Storage (No Water Bath)
  • Prepare jars: Wash jars and lids in hot, soapy water or run through the dishwasher. Set aside.
  • Cook the jelly: In a large pot, combine wine, chili flakes and rosemary. Put over high heat and bring into a boil. Add lemon juice and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add the pectin, stirring frequently.
  • Gradually add sugar: Stir until completely dissolved. Remove the rosemary sprig.
  • Boil: Bring to a full rolling boil (one that cannot be stirred down). Boil for exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  • Jar: Remove from heat. Ladle into clean jars, leaving 1-inch headspace.
  • Cool and store: Tighten lids and let sit at room temperature until completely cooled and set (several hours or overnight). Refrigerate for up to 3 weeks or freeze for up to 1 year.

METHOD 2: Water Bath Canning (Pantry-Stable)

  • Sterilize jars: Submerge jars and 2-piece lids in boiling water for 10 minutes. Keep hot until ready to use.
  • Cook the jelly: Follow steps 2-4 from Method 1.
  • Jar and process: Ladle hot jelly into hot sterilized jars, leaving ½-inch headspace. Wipe rims, apply lids, and tighten bands fingertip-tight.
  • Water bath: Process in a boiling water bath for 5 minutes (start timing when water returns to a boil).
  • Cool and store: Remove jars and let cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours. Check seals. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.

Notes

IMPORTANT: 
  • Headspace matters: The ½-inch space allows for expansion and proper sealing
  • Wine choice: Merlot works beautifully, but try Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Noir for variation
  • Serving suggestions: Spread on toast, pair with cheese, or glaze over roasted meats