01
In a small saucepan, combine the apple cider, the clove-studded orange slice, the cinnamon stick, allspice berries, and ginger slice.
02
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, but do not let it boil as boiling can make the spices bitter. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it gently infuse for at least 15 minutes.
03
Stir in the brandy, rum, or applejack. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a heatproof mug or glass, retaining the cinnamon stick.