APPLEJACK HOT TODDY

Stud a 1 /8-inch-thick lemon wheel with 3 cloves. Fill a mug with boiling water to preheat; discard water. Add 1 ounce honey and 5 ounces fresh boiling water to warmed mug and stir until thoroughly combined. Stir in 2 ounces applejack, then add the prepared lemon wheel and 1 piece star anise. Stir in fresh lemon juice, ½ teaspoon at a time, to taste. If desired, garnish with half a vanilla bean pod, then serve.