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                                            Prep Time: 5 Minutes Cook Time: 40 Minutes  | 
                                            Ready In: 45 Minutes Servings: 8  | 
                                         
                                        
                                     
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                    This is an easy way to turn a cheap bottle of wine into something your guests will rave about. I've included directions for alternate preparation and options for straining. Ingredients: 
                    
                        
                                                1 (750 ml) bottle red wine (a cheap cabernet sauvignon)  |  
                                                2 cups water  |  
                                                1/2 cup sugar  |  
                                                2 tablespoons mulling spices  |  
                                                2 oranges  |  
                                                1/4 cup apricot brandy  |  
                                                
                     
                    Directions: 
                    
                        
                            
                                1. Wash and slice oranges thinly. 2. Combine water, sugar, spices, and oranges in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer 20-30 minutes. 3. Reduce heat, add wine, and reheat. Do not boil. 4. Strain oranges and spices. 5. Add brandy just before serving. 6. Serve warm with cinnamon sticks. 7. Make ahead directions: Combine water, sugar, spices, oranges, and wine in a large saucepan. Stir well and refrigerate several hours. Use low heat to warm. Strain and add brandy before serving. 8. Alternatives to straining: Use a strainer insert for your saucepan to hold and lift out spices and oranges, or use cheesecloth to hold oranges and spices during mulling.                              | 
                         
                         
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