You know that drink you hear mentioned in old Christmas songs? Wassail?  We’ll there’s a reason it’s been around so long- it’s good! And while you can drink it hot or cold, served as a warm drink it’s comforting to sip on in cold weather and if you’re looking for drink ideas for your holiday party, I suggest you try it. You start by making a wassail mix of apple cider, pomegranate juice, sugar, orange and lemon juice that’s steeped with a cinnamon sticks, cloves and allspice.  Set some of the basic mix aside for the kids and then make a batch for the grown ups by stirring in a little rum, bourbon or applejack. If you serve it warm, garnish it with a clove-studded orange slice. If you want to turn it into a cold cocktail, garnish each glass with a slice of Granny Smith apple.

WASSAIL MIX
1 quart apple cider
1 pint unsweetened pomegranate juice
½ cup sugar
1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
¾ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
3 cinnamon sticks
1 teaspoon whole cloves
1 teaspoon whole allspice

Combine all ingredients in a pot and bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer at least 1 hour or until all ingredients are well incorporated.