Signature Drink Saturday: Ginger Apple Cider

I am in the process of planning our annual friends holiday party that we call the "Festival of Friends..." and I came across this great warm "holiday-like" signature drink in a Martha Stewart Magazine.
Ginger Apple Cider with Brandy:
2 1/4 cups apple cider
1 tablespoon thinly sliced fresh ginger
2 whole allspice

3 ounces brandy

candied ginger chunks, cut into cubes, rolled in superfine sugar (optional)

1. Bring cider, fresh ginger, and allspice to a boil in saucepan. Remove from heat, and cover. Let stand 10 minutes. Skim foam and strain, discarding solids.
2.Ladle 1/2 cup hot cider into each mug, and add 3/4 ounce brandy. Add ginger cube to each mug, if desired (makes 4)