Mulled Wine

 Homemade mulled wine is easy to make on the stovetop (or simmer in the slow cooker), it's easy to customize with your favorite spices and add-ins, and it so cozy and delicious.  Perfect for winter and holiday entertaining!

Mulled Wine

Ingredients:

• 1 (750 ml) bottle dry red wine
• 1 orange, sliced into rounds (also peeled, if you would like a less-bitter drink)
• 8 whole cloves
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 star anise
• 2-4 T. white or brown sugar, honey or maple syrup to taste
• 1/4 cup brandy (optional)

Directions:

1. Combine wine, orange slices, cloves, cinnamon, star anise, sweetener and brandy in a large saucepan.  Stir to combine.
2. Cook the mulled wine on medium-high heat until it just barely reaches a simmer. (Avoid letting it bubble - you don't want to boil off the alcohol.) 
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the wine simmer for at least 15 minutes or up to 3 hours.
4. Using a fine mesh strainer, remove and discard the orange slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks and star anise.
5. Give the mulled wine a taste, and stir in extra sweetener if needed.
6. Can keep warm in a slow cooker.