Pomegranate Winter Punch

Preparation

1. Roll the pomegranates on a countertop to soften. Halve them crosswise and hold them, cut side down, over a medium saucepan, hitting the backsides until all the seeds have been released.

2. Add the lime juice, brown sugar, rum, 10 pieces of star anise, cinnamon, mulling spices and 3 of the sliced figs.

3. Bring to a boil and simmer 7 minutes.

4. Add the wine and let it rest, covered, 10 minutes.

5. Serve in a Champagne flute, strained or not. Finish with a splash of Champagne.