Glogg - a neighbor whose family roots are in Denmark gave my family this terrific, potent winter beverage recipe.  Some refer to it as "mulled" wine.  If Glogg doesn't warm you up, I don't know what will.  For best results, use a stainless steel or ceramic pot; don't use aluminum or copper or you'll end up with a metallic tasting drink. 

2 - 750 ml bottles burgundy (decent quality, doesn't need to be the most expensive)
1 - 750 ml bottle brandy
2 - 750 ml bottles Port wine
good sized handful of slivered almonds
6 cardamom seeds
2 cinnamon sticks (or 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon)
4 whole cloves (or 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves)
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup prunes
1/2 cup dried apricots
3 or 4 1" slices of orange zest
2 cups granulated sugar (sugar in the raw tastes best)

In a large Dutch oven bring to a boil: burgundy wine, almonds, prunes, raisins, apricots, zest, cinnamon, cloves & cardamom.  Let simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

Strain out the fruit & save.  Add the sugar & brandy.  Bring the whole mixture to a rolling boil for about 10 minutes.

CAREFULLY flambé the entire mixture.  Let it flame for about 2 minutes to burn off the excess alcohol.

Stir in the final bottles of Port wine.  Add back the almonds & fruit.  Serve immediately.

Hint: DO NOT stand over the Glogg as it cooks, the aroma will get you drunk!

Be responsible, Don't Drink & Drive

Cold Christmas Punch - light, refreshing, goes with great with whatever you're serving.  The kids will love it too!

2 - bottles Sparkling Apple Cider, chilled
2 - bottles Sparkling Pear Cider, chilled
1 - can pineapple chunks
1/2 cup lemon OR orange juice
3 - cinnamon sticks
4 - whole cloves
Maraschino cherries for garnish

Combine pineapple, juice, cinnamon & cloves.  Allow to chill overnight in refrigerator.

Remove cloves & cinnamon sticks.  Add Sparkling Ciders.  Garnish with Maraschino cherries.

Warm Christmas Punch - warm, soothing & refreshing. Perfect on a cold winter's night.  The kids will love it too!