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Place all the spices in muslin cloth to easily remove from the wine when serving.
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1 bottle good quality red wine
Juice of 2 large oranges
1 lemon studded with 4 cloves
2 cinnamon sticks
2 cardamoms
1 star anise
1 vanilla pod
100g honey
4 tablespoons brandy or port – optional –
Pour the wine into a large saucepan and add the remaining ingredients, place over a medium heat and allow to simmer for 5 – 8 minutes. Â Remove from the heat and keep covered with a lid to infuse for 10 minutes. Check the flavour and add more honey if required.