Recipe of the Week

1 bottle (750 ml) fruity red wine

1 cup brandy

1 cup sugar

1 medium orange, sliced

1 medium lemon, sliced

1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

2 cinnamon sticks (3 inches)

½ tsp. whole allspice

½ tsp. aniseed

½ tsp. whole peppercorns

3 whole cloves

Optional garnishes: orange slices, star anise, additional cinnamon sticks

In a large saucepan, combine the first 6 ingredients. Place remaining spices on a double thickness of cheesecloth. Gather corners of cloth to enclose spices; tie securely with string. Place in pan. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat; simmer gently, covered, 20 minutes....