No celebration is complete without a signature aperitif; our delightfully simple recipe for a classic Champagne cocktail with a festive twist is perfect for entertaining over the holiday season.

Ingredients:

50cl dark rum or brandy
3 cinnamon sticks
10 cloves
3 star anise
Zest of 1/2 orange
2 tablespoons caster sugar (or to taste)
Champagne

Put all the ingredients together and leave for a few days to allow the spices and flavours to infuse properly. If you are in a hurry, keep it in a warm place. For serving, pour 2 teaspoonfuls of the mixture into a champagne glass and top up with Champagne or an equivalent.