Try this homemade Dr. Johnson's Second Choice recipe the whole family will love. Made with red wine, sugar, cloves and boiling water. Easy step-by-step …
This Dr. Johnson's Second Choice relies on simple, everyday ingredients such as pint dry red wine (700ml), sugar cubes, whole cloves and pint boiling water (600 ml). It comes together quickly and makes 4 servings, at about 1382 kcal each. The step-by-step instructions below are written to be easy to follow, even on a busy day.
It's versatile enough for an easy weeknight dinner yet satisfying enough for guests at the weekend. Serve it with your favorite sides, and keep any leftovers for a quick meal the next day.
Updated Jun 30, 2026