Imagine a cake that captures the cozy warmth and festive spirit of mulled wine – that's what we're creating here.  This cake is a symphony of rich flavors and textures, perfect for a winter celebration or a cozy evening treat.
The Mulled Wine Spice Sponge:
The sponge itself is a dark, fragrant marvel.  It's not your typical light and airy cake; instead, it's dense and moist, packed with the aromas of the season.  The almond flour provides a subtle nutty base and contributes to the moist texture, while the cocoa adds a deep richness.  The real magic, though, comes from the spice blend: cardamom, ginger, and a hint of orange zest create a warm, aromatic profile reminiscent of mulled wine.  A touch of honey sweetens the sponge and adds a subtle floral note that complements the other flavors.  The orange flavor isn't just in the zest; a bit of orange juice is incorporated into the batter for a more pronounced citrus presence.
The Citrus-Infused Custard:
Nestled between the layers of sponge is a creamy, smooth custard.  Instead of dairy milk, we use plant-based milk (oat or almond).  The custard is infused with orange, echoing the flavor of the sponge and adding a bright, zesty counterpoint to the richer spices.
The Fruity Mulled Wine Layer:
This is where the mulled wine inspiration truly comes to life.  A layer of reduced grape juice, thickened slightly to a jam-like consistency, is spread between the sponge and the custard.  This concentrated grape flavor is the heart of the mulled wine experience.  Studded within this layer are plump, juicy cherries and perhaps some chopped grapes, adding bursts of fruity sweetness and a delightful textural contrast.  Thin strips of orange peel, candied or simply dried, are also incorporated, intensifying the citrus notes and adding a touch of bitterness that balances the sweetness.
The Overall Experience:
Each slice of this cake is a journey of flavors and textures.  The moist, spiced sponge melts in your mouth, releasing the warm aromas of cardamom, ginger, and orange.  The fruity mulled wine layer provides a burst of juicy sweetness and a hint of tartness, while the creamy orange custard adds a smooth, refreshing counterpoint.  The combination is both comforting and sophisticated, a true celebration of the flavors of mulled wine in cake form.