Active Time

　　5 minutes

　　Total Time

　　25 minutes

　　This pared-down mulled wine recipe is great for impromptu entertaining as the weather gets cooler.

　　

Ingredients

Makes 6 drinks

　　1 (750 ml) bottle juicy light red wine, such as Beaujolais

　　4 ounces brandy

　　2 cups fresh apple cider

　　2 star anise pods

　　6 whole cloves

　　2 cinnamon sticks; plus 6 more for serving (optional)

　　

Step 1

Bring wine, brandy, apple cider, star anise, cloves, and 2 cinnamon sticks to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat to low and simmer until flavors are infused, about 15 minutes.

　　

Step 2

Divide among mugs, garnish with 6 cinnamon sticks, if using, and serve.

　　

Do Ahead

Step 3

Mulled wine can be made 2 hours ahead; cover and store at room temperature, or chill up to 3 days. Rewarm over medium-low heat before serving.