You scurry through the shops, trying to beat the Christmas rush.  The wind is refreshing but has that wintry bite to it, and all you can think about is slipping into a steaming bathtub at the end of your hectic day.

Start with a warm and perfectly spiced drink that soothes to your toes.  We love Old World-style mulled wine!


Add all ingredients to your pot and allow to steep at low heat for at least 20 minutes. 

Take care to not allow your wine to boil - the alcohol will evaporate.

Sieve out the seasonings and serve in heat-tolerant mugs, paired with a handful of sugar-roasted nuts or your favourite seasonal snack! 



The sweet spicy scent will fill your home with a welcoming aroma.

Tips:

* Use a sieve to remove the spices and fruit, then refrigerate leftover wine to reheat later. 

* Feel free to reach for the cheaper wines with this recipe.  It should not be a vintage you dislike - it won't taste any better when warmed - but this is an opportunity to try a bottle off the bottom shelves at your wine store.

* Experiment with the spices according to your taste.  Be careful with the citrus fruits, as extended steeping will lend a sourness to the wine.

* These spices are also useful for delicious hot apple and hot pear ciders.  You can find many variations of these recipes online or in many holiday cookbooks.

* Use only stainless steel or nonstick-finish pots during preparation.  Aluminum cookware will lend a metallic taste to your recipe.


by Claire Rahn