Warm Spiced Sangria

Ingredients

• 8 black peppercorns
• 6 whole allspice
• 6 whole cloves
• 2 (3-inch) cinnamon sticks
• 3 (3- x 1-inch) orange rind strips
• 3 cups orange juice
• 1 1/2 cups apple cider
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 (750-milliliter) bottles dry red wine
• 1/2 cup brandy
• 1 orange, sliced
• 2 small Granny Smith apples, sliced

Preparation

1. Place peppercorns, allspice, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and orange rind strips on a 5-inch square of cheesecloth. Gather edges of cheesecloth, and tie securely with kitchen string. Combine orange juice, apple cider, sugar, and spice bag in a 6-qt. slow cooker. Cover and cook on HIGH 2 hours. Stir in wine, brandy, orange slices, and apple slices. Cover and cook on LOW 30 minutes or until thoroughly heated. Discard spice bag before serving.