Tailgate Recipes: Spiced Wine

Now that the weather has turned chilly, warm drinks are a welcome friend at the tailgate and during gameday. This is my favorite recipe for spiced wine or mulled wine. It's a very popular holiday drink too. It will make your whole house smell really good.

• 2 cups apple cider
• 1 (750-ml) bottle red wine, such as Merlot
• 1 cup of orange juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 (3 inch) piece of fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 4 oranges, peeled, for garnish
• Optional -  add a splash of Brandy or Grand Marnier

Combine the cider, wine, OJ, honey, cinnamon sticks, ginger, and nutmeg. In a large saucepan, bring to a boil and simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes. (You can also prepare in a slow cooker). Serve with a garnish of orange peel. Cheers!