Ingredients
2/3 cup vodka2/3 cup port wine15 whole cloves3 cinnamon sticks (3 inches)2 orange zest strips (1 to 3 inches)1 orange slice1 lemon zest strip (1 to 3 inches)1 lemon slice1 piece fresh gingerroot (about 2 inches), peeled and thinly sliced1 teaspoon cardamom pods3 cups dry red wine1 cup packed brown sugarBlanched almonds and raisins, optional
Preparation
In a large bowl, combine the first 10 ingredients. Refrigerate, covered, overnight.
Transfer to a large saucepan; stir in red wine and brown sugar. Bring just to a simmer (do not boil). Reduce heat; simmer gently, uncovered, until flavors are blended, about 30 minutes, stirring to dissolve sugar. Strain.
Serve warm over blanched almond and raisins, if desired.
