Whether you know it fondly as Glühwein, Wassail, Spiced Wine, or Glögg, nothing quite evokes the spirit of the holidays like a steaming mug of mulled wine. A welcome sign of winter hospitality throughout Europe since the middle ages, mulled wine is still enjoyed at German Christkindl Markets and holiday parties today. It’s less commonly served after the festivities are over, but why limit the merriment when winter is so long?  There’s no need to go caroling door to door when it’s this easy to make in your own kitchen, and as a bonus, your entire house is guaranteed to smell incredible.

Mulled Wine
Serves 8-10

Ingredients

• 1 750mL bottle of dry red wine (we like Coppola Wineries’ Director Cabernet Sauvignon)
• 32 oz of apple cider
• 2 oz brandy (optional)
• 2 oz honey or sugar
• 1 orange, juiced
• 5 cloves
• 3 star anise
• 2 cinnamon sticks

Directions

Combine all ingredients in a large non-aluminum saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Lastly, ladle into mugs and serve hot!

Note: For a non-alcoholic version, substitute cranberry or Concord grape juice for the wine.