Preheat the oven to 400F Cover the whole blanched almonds with boiling water and soak for 10 minutes.
Drain and slice lengthways into thin shards, then spread out on a baking tray and roast for 6-7 minutes, until golden.
Cool.
Meanwhile, put the red wine, port, vodka, cardamom pods, cinnamon sticks, cloves, the pared zest of the oranges and the sugar into a large pan and leave over a low heat for 20 minutes do not let it boil.
Remove from the heat and cool slightly.
Put a metal teaspoon into each glass this will absorb the heat so that the glass doesnt crack.
To serve, pour the mulled wine between glasses and sprinkle with the toasted almonds and 2 tablespoons raisins.