Warm the apple cider and the water in a saucepan over medium heat. Let it start to steam but you don't want to get it very hot and boiling. It should be sip-pable temperature.
In a glass cup or a serving glass, measure out the bourbon.
Mix in the honey and lemon juice to it.
Add the warm apple cider-hot water mix and stir it in to the bourbon mix.
Top with a lemon slice or a cinnamon stick or a star anise and serve immediately.
Notes
Use good quality real apple cider that is unfiltered. Buy locally produced apple cider, especially fresh pressed cider if you can. It will be fresher and will contain less preservatives.If you don't love bourbon, you can use any other whiskey.