Mulled Wine

Recipe submitted by guest, Catherine Montest

Ingredients:

2 bottles Dry Red Wine, such as an inexpensive Pinot Noir

1/2 cup Cognac or Brandy

1 tablespoon Honey or Agave syrup, plus more to adjust sweetness

4 to 6 Cinnamon sticks

4 to 6 whole Star Anise

4 to 6 whole Cloves

Slices of dried orange, or 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest

Slices of dried lemon or 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon zest

Method:

In a large Dutch oven placed over medium heat, add the wine, cognac, and sweetener then mix to combine. Continue by adding the whole spices and dried fruit slices or zest. Heat mixture until wisps of steam appear on the surface of the mulled wine. Do not simmer or boil, and reduce heat to keep warm. Taste and adjust for sweetness. Serve in mugs with additional cinnamon sticks and/or sliced citrus. Enjoy!