Place all of the ingredients except the brandy or port in a large mixing bowl.Stir well, cover the bowl with a cloth and set aside in a cool place overnight.The following day, stir in enough brandy or port to make a mixture moist enough to drop from a spoon.Spoon the mixture into sterilized jars, store in a cool, dry place.This will take about 4 weeks to mature before its ready to use in mincemeat pies