When I was nailing down what I would serve at my Christmas Open House this year, I decided instead of having a bunch of mixers and alcohol I would offer my guests mulled wine. I like sangria a lot and to me this was a natural progression for the holiday season. I will include the individual spices that are included, but if you are like me and can’t find whole star anise or cloves, Spice Islands has a spice kit they sell that works just as well (it’s what I used).

• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 orange, halved and juiced
• 8 whole cloves
• 1 whole star anise
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 6 cups apple cider
• 1 bottle of red wine, I used cabernet

Combine all ingredients in a crockpot, including the orange halves that were juiced. Cook on high for 4 hours, or low for 6. Strain out all the spices and fruit and discard when you are ready to serve.