Mulled Wine

Instructions

1. Prepare the fruit and spices
   Wash the orange and lemon thoroughly. Slice them into rounds about 1/4 inch thick. Gather all your spices - cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and vanilla pod. If using the vanilla pod, split it lengthwise to expose the seeds.
2. Combine ingredients
   In a large, non-aluminum pot, combine the wine, sliced orange, sliced lemon, sugar, cloves, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and vanilla pod. If using honey, add it now. Stir gently to start dissolving the sugar.
3. Heat gently
   Place the pot over low to medium-low heat. Warm the mixture gently, stirring occasionally to help the sugar dissolve completely. Do not let the mixture boil as this will burn off the alcohol and create a bitter taste.
4. Simmer
   Once the sugar has dissolved completely, reduce the heat to low and simmer the mulled wine for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. Keep the temperature below a simmer - you should see only small bubbles occasionally rising to the surface.
5. Add brandy and serve
   If using brandy or cognac, stir it in just before serving. Strain the mulled wine through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the fruit slices and spices. Ladle the hot mulled wine into heatproof glasses or mugs. Garnish each serving with a fresh orange slice and cinnamon stick if desired.