Wassail, all over the town!

For the past year or so, I’ve been a member of the Salt Lake Men’s Choir. This means that I’ve been fortunate enough to be a singer on the choir’s soon-to-be-released CD, ‘Sing We Now of Christmas.” One of the songs on the album is called “Wassail.” So naturally, I’ve been thinking about it since we recorded the CD, in August. That’s a lot of time to wait for wassail. For your enjoyment, I present the Salt Lake Men’s Choir. But first, the lovely beverage.

This Wassail recipe is not mine. My friend Nate (a fellow Baritone) developed it. It’s magical.

Wassail
(the recipe makes a lot, which you’re going to want and/or need; it also scales down quite easily)

6 c. Newcastle brown ale
6 c. hard apple cider
3 c. Madeira
1.5 c. mulling syrup
Juice of one orange
Orange slices
Apple slices

Combine ingredients in stock pot or crock pot over low heat. Leave fruit floating in pan. Serve drink with cinnamon sticks, orange slices and/or apple slices. I like to serve mine with orange wedges with whole cloves pressed into the peel.

Mulling syrup
1.5 c Water
1.5 c Brown Sugar
2 cinnamon sticks
9 allspice berries
12 cloves
Peeled ginger root, sliced into medallions.

Bring sugar and water to boil in a saucepan, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, take off heat, cover, and let steep for 60 to 90 minutes. Strain and bottle.

I suggest leaving the pot on the stove and letting guests serve themselves throughout the evening. As you drink it, all the drafty spots inside of you will disappear and your tasters will tingle. It feels like family, good will, and peace on Earth. You think I’m kidding; I’m not. Be careful. You might not be able to stop.

Now, some singing:

I’m so happy to know those people. And though I’m not singing with the choir at the moment, I’m proud to have sung with them.