Mulled Wine to keep you warm and cozy this winter season!

Recipe:

Toast the spices: Add the allspice, cloves, star anise and cinnamon to the bottom of a pot. Toast over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant.

• 2 Cinnamon Sticks
• 3 Star Anise
• 4 Whole Cloves
• 4 All Spice Berries

Turn the heat to low. Pour in the wine and brandy and bring to below a simmer, just barely bubbling (don't boil or the alcohol will evaporate). Warm for 1 hour on low heat (don’t let it simmer). 

• 1 Bottle of Wine: Merlot or Zinfandel (a fruity or full bodied white or red wine)
• ¼ cup of Brandy (or an orange liqueur or tawny port)

Add the maple syrup or honey. The amount will depend on your sweetness level. Add 1 tablespoon at a time and tasted before adding more.

• 1 to 2 tablespoons of Maple Syrup or Honey

Garnish with orange slices and cranberries, then serve.

• 2 small Fresh Oranges
• 1 to 2 handfuls of Cranberries

For a non-alcoholic version of this cozy recipe to share with the whole family, young and old, try substituting apple cider for the wine and brandy.