Mulled Wine

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle red wine
• 1 orange, sliced into rounds
• 8 whole cloves
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 star anise
• 2-4 tablespoons sugar, honey, or maple syrup to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup brandy or orange liqueur

Instructions:

1. Combine the wine, orange slices, cloves, cinnamon, star anise, and sweetener in a large pot.
2. Heat over medium heat until the wine is steaming, but not boiling.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for at least 15 minutes or up to 3 hours.
4. Strain the wine to remove the spices and orange slices, then stir in the brandy or orange liqueur if using.
5. Serve warm in mugs, garnished with a fresh orange slice or cinnamon stick if desired.