Zippy Spicy Orange Mimosas

4 T. sugar
16 cloves
8 pods cardamom
4 fresh bay leaves
4 whole star anise
2 stalks lemongrass, cut into ½” pieces
2 c. fresh orange juice (about 10 navel oranges)
1 bunch fresh lemon balm, pummeled (this is a herb)
2 c. prosecco
Fresh orange slices, for garnish

1. ORANGE JUICE MIXTURE: Put the sugar, cloves, cardamom, bay leaves, star anise, lemongrass and ½ c. water in a pot and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and simmer until spices release their flavor, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and cool another 5 minutes.
4. Combine the spice mixture and orang juice in a bowl and refrigerate at least 30 minutes.
5. Once chilled, strain and discard spices.
6. Take 4 champagne flutes.
7. Put 4 lemon balm leaves in each glass and bruise leaves with a muddler.
8. Pour ½ c. juice and ½ c. prosecco into each glass.
9. Decorate with fresh orange slices.