Back in the day when Min and her pal Philip Bernard attended Virginia Tech football pregame tailgate parties with fervent religiosity, a touch of special cider was often the incentive for warming up some team spirit. In truth, there is absolutely nothing Hokie about this fine cider punch, what with the assistance of the special team’s Tennessee whiskey and all.

　　

Ingredients

makes 16 servings

　　2 quarts apple cider

　　1 cup fresh orange juice

　　4 cinnamon sticks

　　8 whole cloves

　　8 whole allspice

　　One 750-ml bottle Tennessee whiskey

　　1 cup triple sec

　　

Step 1

POUR the apple cider and orange juice into a large slow cooker (at least 5 quarts).

　　

Step 2

TIE the cinnamon, cloves, and allspice in a piece of cheesecloth and drop the bundle in the slow cooker. Cover and heat on low until warm.

　　

Step 3

Just before serving, Add the whiskey and the triple sec. Keep the slow cooker on the warm or low setting during the party. Serve in mugs.

　　Cheater BBQ