Spiced Mulled Wine

Name: Spiced Mulled Wine
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6 servings.
Ingredients: 1 bottle (750 ml) ruby port; 1 bottle (750 ml) merlot; 1/2 cup sugar; 4 orange peel strips (1 to 3 inches); 2 cinnamon sticks (3 inches); 8 whole allspice; 6 whole cloves

You'll want to heat this traditional beverage before company arrives. Your home will have the scent of Christmas! —Lana Gryga, Glen Flora, Wisconsin

Ingredients

1 bottle (750 ml) ruby port
1 bottle (750 ml) merlot
1/2 cup sugar
4 orange peel strips (1 to 3 inches)
2 cinnamon sticks (3 inches)
8 whole allspice
6 whole cloves

Directions

In a large saucepan, combine all ingredients; bring just to a simmer (do not boil). Reduce heat; simmer gently, uncovered, 30 minutes or until flavors are blended, stirring to dissolve sugar. Strain. Serve warm.

Originally published as Mulled Wine in Country Woman Christmas 2012