Combine chai spices (cinnamon, cardamom, black peppercorns, ginger) with the apple cider in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand to chill for at least one hour or overnight to develop its flavor.
Cocktail Glass Rim
Mix cinnamon, sugar and salt on a small plate. Run a wedge of lime around the rim of the glass, then dip into the cinnamon mixture. Fill with ice and set aside.
Cocktail
Strain the chai-spiced apple cider. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Pour in two ounces tequila, 2 ounces apple cider, lime juice, and simple syrup. Shake for 20 seconds, then pour into the cinnamon-rimmed glasses. Garnish with star anise.
Notes
For a non-alcoholic version of the cocktail, eliminate the tequila.