A great holiday drink for company is a warm spiced cider and wine combination which I spike with Cointreau and brandy. Floating fruits in the punch add a festive touch. I enjoy adding fresh cranberries along with a strong set of citrus fruits. Each time I make this, I vary the ingredients. Apple is a good addition. Some of the recipes for wassail incorporate eggs and butter. This version does not. Wassail enjoys a rich history going back to England. Perhaps first as a pagan harvest ritual the tradition evolved to a wish for good health by Saxon times. A cheer from the host of "Wes hal," meaning be in good health. was followed by a response of "Drink hal" or drink health from the guests. A dry rose with cranberry juice tints the apple cider: The color of this beverage is a rich festive hue of an earthy red.

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