Spiced Apple Cider

4 cups (1 L) fresh apple cider
4 pieces orange zest, 2-in (5-cm) long
2 cinnamon sticks
6 allspice berries
6 whole cloves
1 slice peeled fresh ginger

Heat apple cider in a large heavy pot over medium heat. Add remaining ingredients to the cider. Reduce heat to low and slowly simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, but do not allow cider to boil. Strain cider through a fine-mesh sieve and serve warm or cold. Garnish with a cinnamon stick. Serves 6.