After experimenting with serving mulled wine at a previous holiday party, we can confirm it'll be an extraordinary hit your guests. Even better, it'll leave your house smelling delicious while it's cooking and for long afterwards.
4 cups apple cider
1 (750-ml) bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon
1/4 cup honey
3 cinnamon sticks
2 orange, 1 for zest, 1 peeled for garnish, and both juiced
5 whole cloves
4 star anise
1/2 cup brandy
1/2 cup maple syrup
Combine all the ingredients in a large saucepan or a crockpot, bring them right to a simmer over medium-low heat for about 10 or 15 minutes. Pour the wine into mugs, and add an orange peel to each before serving.