Picture the scene….. The crackling of chestnuts being roasted on an open fire, the twinkle of the fairy lights on the Christmas tree, a faint glance out of the window tells you its thick with snow but your tucked up nice and cosy in your house with no need to leave for the next few days. What a perfect situation to curl up with a hot mug of mulled wine!…… It’s that time of year again and although this scene rarely happens to anyone it’s a good excuse put some on the stove and pretend that all is peaceful.
I love all mulled wine, it reminds me of happy memories in Amsterdam, a winter holiday where mulled wine was the only way to keep the cold out. It gives a warm glow to everyone and can be drunk on a quite evening in or when friends come over.
The shops are filled with it at the moment and although Christmas is almost upon us it isn’t too late to grab yourself some. It can come in a variety of forms, starting with the full blown recipes that can be found on the internet, in recipe books or even supermarket recipe cards. Making it more simple for you, are the spice sachets were you just add fruit juice, red wine and optional fruit, or the easiest option, which I prefer, out of pure laziness is the ready made bottle. Simply pour into a pan, heat and serve……….perfect!
My recommendation is the Sainsbury’s own brand mulled wine, its cheap at £3.49 and its full of flavour. But don’t take my word for it try it and see…. If you think you know a better one I’d love to hear about it!

Mary Nixon