• Using a sharp knife, slice 1 large Orange into 7-8 slices. If you have a tea ball, place the 8 Whole cloves and 2 Whole star anise into it, otherwise add it in the next step. This will make it so you don't have to strain the wine later as the other ingredients are large enough to remove easily.
• In a Medium saucepan, add 1½ L Dry red wine, ¼ cup Brandy, 2 Cinnamon sticks, 1 large Orange, orange slices, and tea ball (if using) with the other spices. Stir to combine.
• Heat the mulled wine on Medium-high heat until it just barely reaches a simmer.  Avoid letting it bubble or boil — you don’t want to boil off the alcohol.
• Reduce heat to Low, cover, and let the wine simmer for 20 minutes or up to 3 hours.
• Next, using a fine mesh strainer, remove and discard the orange slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and star anise.  Give the mulled wine a taste, and stir in extra sweetener if needed.
• Serve warm in your favorite mugs!

Storage

• This is best served freshly made and warm. I wouldn't recommend reheating or refrigerating, because it can mess a little with the flavors and reduce the nicely balanced alcohol content.