Winter is coming...

 Just like the television show Game of Thrones said in almost every episode…. Winter is coming. Lol, but seriously, the temps are starting to drop here in the foothills, on their way to downright chilly! So, envision this cozy scene - you’re relaxing by the fire, wrapped a blanket, binge-watching your favorite Netflix show, and you want something to warm you up. A glass of wine would be great, but Mulled Wine would be even better! Mulled Wine is essentially warmed, spiced wine, often revved up with some type of spirits, brandy or rum. Our Old Vine Zinfandel with its dark fruit mixed with the mulling spices is the perfect cure!

Some history for you, where did Mulled Wine begin and why? Mulled Wine originated in the 2nd century and was created by the Romans who would heat wine to defend their bodies against the cold winter. It is known by many different names; in Norway and Sweden it is called glögg and in Germany and Belgium it is called glühwein. Perhaps you have even seen it at Ikea?? Towards to the end of the 1800’s, it became popular all over Europe as a holiday beverage to enjoy with family and friends.

Enter modern day, having a holiday party? Break out your Crock Pot, Instant Pot, or boiling pot on the stove and load them up with the necessary spices and wine. See our recipe, below, or on our recipe page, for ingredients and amounts. It can be ready in as little at 15 minutes but is better if left to barely simmer for more time. The longer it does, the better the integration of the spices into the wine. Plus, it will fill your home with a festive aroma that will welcome your guests as soon as they walk in the door. Maybe if the people of Winterfell, (another Game of Thrones reference for all you fans out there) had some mulled wine, they would’ve been happier. 😊

MULLED WINE RECIPE

Ingredients

One bottle Zinfandel

One orange, sliced in rounds

8 whole cloves

2 cinnamon sticks

2 star anise pods

2 whole cardamom pods

2-4 tablespoons honey (start with 2tbsp first. If a sweeter wine is desired, add 1 tbsp at a time)

¼ cup brandy (optional)

Dehydrated orange slices

Preparation

Combine all ingredients in a small pot, Crock Pot, or Instant Pot.
Heat to just below a simmer for at least 15 minutes and up to 3 hours, to develop flavors.
Strain mulled wine, reserving orange slices for garnish if desired. Ladle into cups, and garnish with dehydrated orange slices.

Serves five people.