Wassail Wows with Perfect Holiday Flavor

Raise a cup to a yuletide holiday tradition with a steaming cup of wassail.

Ingredients:

1 gallon apple cider
2 cups orange juice
8 cinnamon sticks
10 to 12 whole cloves
2 to 3 star anise
1 tablespoon allspice berries
1 lemon, quartered
2 oranges, sliced
1 cup sugar (white or brown)
1 gallon white wine
2 cups rum
lemon slices to garnish
cheesecloth (optional)

Directions:

In a large stockpot over low heat, combine cider, juice, spices, fruit and sugar. (Cheesecloth works well to hold solid pieces, and makes them easy to remove from liquid.) Simmer for 1-1/2 to 2 hours. Remove the pot from heat. If cheesecloth wasn't used, strain and discard solid ingredients and return the liquid to the pot, and add the wine and rum. Return the mix to the heat to warm through. Once steam begins rising from the surface, the wassail is ready to ladle into mugs. Serve immediately.