Toast almonds in a skillet for 2 to 3 minutes. Set aside.

Combine spices and orange zest in a nylon bag or cheesecloth. Tie bag or cheesecloth closed. Put the bag, half the wine and raisins in a saucepan and simmer 20 minutes. Do Not Boil. Add remaining wine and almonds.

In s separate saucepan, heat 1/3 of the brandy, vodka or aquavit, pour in the sugar and light with a match, when sugar is melted, cover pan to extinguish the flame, then add the remaining liquor and add the brandy, vodka or aquavit mixture, to the wine and spice mixture.

Serve hot in small cups while sitting down:)