Mulled Wine: The Ultimate Holiday Warm-Up Drink
Mulled wine is a festive, spiced drink perfect for warming up during the holidays. Made with red wine, citrus, and cozy spices, it’s an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s full of holiday charm.
Mulled wine is a timeless holiday classic, loved for its rich, spiced aroma and cozy warmth. Perfect for winter nights, festive gatherings, or quiet moments by the fire, this drink embodies the spirit of the season. Originating in Europe, mulled wine has been enjoyed for centuries, especially during Christmas markets and cold-weather celebrations.
Why will you love this recipe? It’s easy to prepare, highly customizable, and fills your home with the nostalgic scents of cinnamon, cloves, and citrus. This version features a balance of dry red wine, warming spices, and a hint of sweetness that can be tailored to your taste. Whether hosting a holiday party or winding down after a chilly day, this mulled wine is a crowd-pleaser.
Tips and Tricks:
Use Quality Wine: Choose a dry red wine you enjoy on its own—Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot are great options.
Sweeten to Taste: Adjust the sweetness with sugar, honey, or maple syrup based on your preference.
Don’t Boil: Simmer the wine gently to preserve its flavor and avoid cooking off the alcohol.
Slow Cooker Option: If you’re hosting, keep it warm and ready for guests by preparing it in a slow cooker.
Cheesecloth Trick: Place the spices in a cheesecloth bundle for easy removal after simmering.
Commonly Asked Questions:
Can I make this alcohol-free? Yes! Swap the red wine for grape juice or cranberry juice and skip the brandy.
How long can I store leftovers? Store cooled mulled wine in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Can I add other fruits? Absolutely! Sliced apples or pears make excellent additions for extra flavor.
A Little History:
Mulled wine dates back to ancient Rome, where wine was heated with spices as a way to preserve it during colder months. Over time, this practice spread across Europe, becoming a holiday staple in countries like Germany (Glühwein), Sweden (Glögg), and the UK. Today, it’s synonymous with Christmas cheer and winter warmth.
Mulled wine is more than just a drink—it’s an experience that brings people together during the most festive time of the year. Its versatility and rich history make it a perfect addition to any holiday gathering. Whether you’re sipping it by the fire or serving it at your next party, this recipe guarantees warmth and joy in every cup. Try it, customize it, and make it your new holiday tradition!
Mulled Wine: The Ultimate Holiday Warm-Up Drink
Ingredients
1 (750 mL) bottle of dry red wine
1/4 cup brandy (or orange liqueur)
1 orange, sliced into rounds (peel the orange for a less-bitter taste)
8 whole cloves
2 cinnamon sticks
2 star anise
2 to 4 tablespoons sugar, honey, or maple syrup (to taste)
Optional garnishes: citrus slices, extra cinnamon sticks, star anise
Instructions
Combine Ingredients: Add wine, brandy, orange slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and 2 tablespoons of sweetener to a large saucepan. Stir gently to combine.
Simmer: Cook the mixture over medium-high heat until it reaches a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes or up to 3 hours. Avoid boiling to preserve the wine’s flavor.
Strain: Remove and discard the orange slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and star anise using a fine mesh strainer. Adjust sweetness if needed.
Serve: Pour the mulled wine into heatproof mugs and garnish with citrus slices or a cinnamon stick.