MULLED WINE

Watch the How-To Video on Instagram

You'll need:

2 large oranges

1 bottle of affordable Merlot, Zinfandel or Garnacha (also called Grenache)

1/2 cup brandy

1-2 tablespoons maply syrup or honey, to taste

2 whole cinnamon sticks

3 star anise pods

4 whole cloves

1/4 cup cranberries

How to:

1. Squeeze juice from one of the oranges. Slice the other orange into rounds.
2. Add orange juice and rounds into a small Dutch oven or similarly heavy-bottomed pot.
3. Pour in the wine, then the brandy. Add 1 tablespoon of sweetener, then the cinnamon sticks, star anise and cloves.
4. Warm over medium heat until steaming. Reduce heat to low at first sign of bubbles.
5. Time to taste-test. If you want it sweeter, add another tablespoon of sweetener. If you want it spicier, keep cooking for 5-10 more minutes.
6. Serve in mugs garnished with cranberries and extra spices for a holiday-appropriate look.