Hot Mulled Wine

Ingredients

• 750 ml bottle of dry red wine
• 1/2 cup freshly-squeezed orange juice
• 1/4 cup freshly-squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup brandy
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 cloves
• 1 apple, peeled and sliced
• Orange slices for garnish

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, combine the wine, orange juice, lemon juice, honey, brandy, cinnamon sticks and cloves.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add the apple slices and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Strain the mulled wine through a fine-mesh sieve and pour into mugs or glasses.
6. Garnish with orange slices and serve warm.

Interesting Facts

• Mulled wine is a traditional European winter drink.
• It is believed to have originated in Ancient Rome.
• The word "mulled" comes from the Old English word "melian" which means to heat with spices.
• Mulled wine is sometimes served at holiday parties and gatherings.