My cousin Katy was in town this weekend visiting from Portland, so I wanted to make some special treats for her visit. I made my favorite cheesy chorizo breakfast hash for brunch and some yummy chicken and dumplings for dinner. But why stop at food – tis the season for some holiday drinks!

After being inspired from recently visiting the Christkindlmarket in Chicago, which is full of German holiday cheer and lots o’ mulled wine, I thought I’d give glogg (spiced wine) a try at home!

I adapted my recipe below from this likely way more official recipe for Glogg. Mine is quick and easy to make and will certainly warm you up this winter.

Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6 glasses

Ingredients
2 bottles of red wine (merlot or pinot noir)
3/4 cup brandy
20 oz cinnamon sticks
20 whole cardamom seeds
25 cloves
4 tbs dried orange zest
1/2 cup granulated sugar

Place the cinnamon sticks, cardamom seeds, cloves and orange zest onto a cheesecloth and tie it into a pouch with cooking twine. Pour the wine and brandy into a large pot over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. Add the spice bundle to the pot and boil for 15 minutes on medium heat, stirring several times.

I wish this video had smell o’ vision because whoa baby.

In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add 1/4 cup of sugar and stir. Taste to see if you need to add the additional 1/4 cup, if so, toss it in!

Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes, then serve while still warm. YUM.

I’ll have to end this post with a photo of my and my lovely cuz before all the wines! 😀 Happy Holidays y’all!