We spend the time before Christmas rushing, looking for things, cleaning and cooking. Sometimes, even though we really don't want it to be, it can be irritating and unpleasant. But when the emotions subside, we just need to relax, rest and drink in the Christmas atmosphere. We like then to light up the fireplace and some candles and drink spicy mulled wine. It is so nice to sit back in an armchair and warm our hands with a warm, aromatic cup of wine. Mulled wine is an obligatory element of our Christmas menu. Sometimes we prepare it also when the autumn-winter weather takes its toll.

Ingredients
750l of dry red wine
a piece of cinnamon
a couple of cardamoms
a couple of cloves
2 star anises
50ml of ginger syrup
50ml or raspberry syrup
a couple of orange slices
2-3 tablespoons of maple syrup (optional)

Put the all ingredients (except for the maple syrup) into a saucepan with a thick bottom. Heat it on a low heat for a few minutes until the wine is hot and spicy. Don't let it boil. Try it and if necessary add a bit of the maple syrup. Pour the mulled wine into some cups and enjoy the excellent spicy flavour and taste.

Enjoy your drink!

Try also
My Irish coffee
Aperol Spritz – Italian holiday memories
Preparation for winter – my fiery teas