Mulled Wine and Hot Toddy Recipes for Cold Winter Nights

A wonderful way to enjoy your outdoor patio on a cold winter evening is with a steaming adult beverage to warm your hands. While coffee, tea, and hot cocoa would work, why not try a nice glass of mulled wine or a hot toddy?

There are many recipes for mulled wine, but I prefer a simple combination of brown sugar and spices. Start with an inexpensive bottle of red wine (I usually use a Cabernet Sauvignon). Pour the wine into a non-aluminum pot and add a thinly sliced orange. In a square of cheesecloth, place 1/4 cup brown sugar, 8-10 whole cloves, 3 cinnamon sticks, and 2 tsp allspice. Tie the cheesecloth closed and add to the wine. Simmer for 30 minutes, but do not bring to a full boil. Remove the cheesecloth and serve in mugs with an orange slice for a garnish. You can also place the ingredients in a slow cooker for a holiday get together.

A hot toddy is traditionally made with brandy, rum, or whiskey. For a whiskey hot toddy, place 1 1/2 ounces of whiskey in a mug or glass. Add 2 ounces boiling water, 1 teaspoon honey, 3 whole cloves, 1 cinnamon stick, and a pinch of nutmeg. Pour into a mug and garnish with a lemon slice. A nice brandy toddy starts with a cup of hot tea. Add 1 ounce of brandy, 1/4 of a lemon, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Serve in a mug and enjoy with a loved one.