Gluehwein

Gluehwein, also spelled Glühwein, is a hot spiced "glow wine" that's found in many winter markets in Germany and Austria. Many tourists know it as an after-ski drink. After you come in from being out in the cold and snow, this warm, spicy mulled drink is supposed to make you "glow" with warmth again. Watch out — the alcohol in this warm beverage can quickly go to your head, so you might want to plan on staying in afterwards! This is the recipe my father would make for New Year's Eve.

• Preparation Time: 5 mins
• Cooking Time: 35 mins
• Total Time: 40 mins
• Calories: 231 Calories

Ingredients

• ¾ cup white sugar
• ¾ cup water
• 10 whole cloves
• 1 (750 milliliter) bottle red wine
• 1 (3 inch) cinnamon stick
• 2 medium oranges, divided

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Combine water, sugar, and cinnamon stick in a saucepan; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low.

Step 2

Cut one orange in half; squeeze orange halves over the sugar mixture to release their juice. Push 5 cloves into the outside of each orange peel; place peels into the simmering mixture. Continue to simmer over the lowest heat until thick and syrupy, 20 to 30 minutes.

Step 3

While the mixture is simmering, slice remaining orange and set aside for serving.

Step 4

When the mixture is finished simmering, stir in wine and heat until steaming but not simmering, 3 to 5 minutes. Discard orange peels and cinnamon stick.

Step 5

Ladle into stoneware mugs and garnish with orange slices.