Glühwein is the German version of Mulled Wine. My memories of Gluhwein transport me back to sipping and clutching a glass to keep warm while wandering around their many and magnificent Weihnachtsmarkt / Christmas markets.

• Glühwein
•  
• 1 bottle of red wine, I used an Australian Shiraz
• ½ cup of white sugar, or to taste
• ½ cup of freshly squeezed orange juice
• Sliced peels of 1 orange
• whole cloves
• 2 cinnamon sticks or pieces
• a few black peppercorns
• Cognac or Grand Marnier, to taste, optional

1. In a large saucepan gently warm the red wine and add sugar to taste.
2. Add the orange juice, sliced orange peel studded with cloves, cinnamon sticks and peppercorns.
3. Continue to gently heat for 30 minutes but never let it boil.
4. Add a drop or two of Cognac and taste adding more sugar if necessary.
5. Strain if desired to remove the orange pieces and spices and serve hot.