Start by pouring the red wine into a medium saucepan. Add the fresh cranberries, orange juice, and honey. Stir gently to combine the ingredients well.

Next, add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and star anise to the saucepan. These spices will infuse the wine with warm, aromatic flavors.

Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Slowly heat the mixture until you see steam rising, and the temperature reaches about 160°F. Important: do not let it boil.

Once steaming, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 20 minutes. This allows the cranberries to soften and the flavors to blend beautifully.

After simmering, you can strain out the spices and cranberries if you prefer a smooth drink. Otherwise, ladle the drink directly into mugs with the fruit and spices for a rustic look.

Finish by placing an orange slice atop each mug. This adds a pop of color and a fresh aroma. Serve the drink warm, perfect for cozy fall or winter evenings.

If you have any leftover drink, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it over low heat without boiling to keep the flavors fresh.