Could you smell Christmas, my friends, with lovely decorations wherever you go and smell of burning wood coming out of old chimneys... Lets enjoy a simple festive drink and let allow us to dream of wonders...

1. Place all the ingredients, except the cider and maple syrup, in a saucepan and heat, stirring well until the lemon juice starts to sizzle.

2. Add the cider and maple syrup and continue to heat over a low to medium flame for 10 – 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Do not allow to boil.

3. Pour your liquid through a fine strainer to remove the cloves, cinnamon stick and any other solids.

4. This will keep in the fridge for up to three days and can simply be reheated and served when required. It’s also delicious chilled and served over ice.

TIPS:
For a non-alcoholic alternative, replace the cider with one litre of good quality, cloudy, fresh apple juice.