Mulled Apple Cider (Booze Optional)

Something simple and warming for these cool/cold fall nights!

Ingredients:

6 cups unpasteurized apple cider (or, you know, whatever you can find)
10-15 whole cloves
4 3" cinnamon stick (my store has 3 or 6", so I thought I'd specify)
1 teaspoon whole allspice
1 1" knob of ginger, peeled and sliced
1 orange, halved, and zest sliced off in thick chunks
3/4 cup of rum (or, you know, to your taste/boozy preference) (optional)

Instructions:

Combine everything together in a saucepan.  Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat and simmer, covered, for 20 minutes.

Strain into a pitcher/bowl.

Serve hot!