Classic Homemade Mulled Wine

There’s something truly magical about wrapping your hands around a warm mug of spiced wine on a cold evening. The intoxicating aroma of cinnamon, citrus, and cloves fills your kitchen and instantly creates a cozy atmosphere. Mulled wine has been warming hearts across Europe for centuries, and it remains a beloved tradition during the winter months. This recipe delivers all the comfort you’re craving with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

You’ll have a pot of perfectly spiced wine ready in just 20 minutes. It’s ideal for holiday gatherings, intimate dinners, or simply treating yourself after a long day. The best part? You don’t need to be a mixologist or sommelier to nail this recipe. Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this an approachable drink for everyone.

Nutrition Facts

Per 100 g (approximately):

• Calories: 95 kcal
• Protein: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fat: 0 g

*Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the wine used and amount of added sugar.*

Ingredients

• 750 ml red wine (1 standard bottle)
• 100 ml fresh orange juice
• 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
• 1 orange (sliced into rounds)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 whole cloves
• 3 star anise pods
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: 50 ml brandy or rum

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Choose Your Wine

Select a medium-bodied, fruity red wine for the best results. Varieties like Merlot, Grenache, or a Spanish Garnacha work wonderfully because they’re smooth and not too tannic.

You don’t need an expensive bottle here. The spices will transform even a budget-friendly wine into something extraordinary. Avoid oaky or heavily aged wines, as they can become bitter when heated.

2. Prepare Your Citrus

Wash your orange thoroughly under running water to remove any wax coating. Slice it into rounds about 5 mm thick.

The orange provides both flavor and beautiful presentation. The slices will float in the pot, releasing their oils and adding a fresh, zesty dimension to your mulled wine.

3. Combine Ingredients in a Large Pot

Pour the entire bottle of wine into a large saucepan or pot. Add the orange juice, honey, and all your spices.

Drop in the orange slices and give everything a gentle stir. The pot should be large enough to allow the ingredients to mingle without risk of overflow.

4. Heat Gently Over Low Heat

This is the most crucial step. Place your pot on the stove over low heat. You want the wine to become steaming hot but never boiling.

Boiling will cook off the alcohol and can make the wine taste bitter and unpleasant. Aim for a temperature around 70°C (160°F). If you see tiny bubbles forming at the bottom, that’s perfect.

5. Simmer and Infuse

Let the wine simmer gently for 15-20 minutes. This allows the spices to release their essential oils and flavors into the wine.

The longer you let it steep, the more intense the flavor becomes. Stir occasionally and taste after 15 minutes to check if it’s reached your desired spice level. If you’re using brandy or rum, add it during the last 5 minutes of simmering.

6. Strain and Serve

When your mulled wine is fragrant and perfectly spiced, remove it from the heat. Use a fine-mesh strainer or slotted spoon to remove the whole spices and orange slices.

This prevents guests from getting a mouthful of cloves. You can leave a few fresh orange slices for garnish if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

Tips for Variations or Side Dishes

White Mulled Wine: Substitute red wine with a crisp white wine like Riesling or Pinot Grigio. Replace the star anise with fresh ginger slices for a lighter, more refreshing version.

Non-Alcoholic Version: Use grape juice or pomegranate juice as your base. Follow the same method, and you’ll have a family-friendly drink that everyone can enjoy.

Apple Cider Mulled Wine: Add 100 ml of apple cider to the pot for a fruity twist. This adds natural sweetness and pairs beautifully with the warm spices.

Perfect Pairings: Serve your mulled wine alongside traditional holiday treats. Gingerbread cookies, roasted chestnuts, or a cheese board with aged cheddar and brie complement the spiced flavors wonderfully.

Spice Variations: Experiment with cardamom pods, fresh ginger, or even a pinch of nutmeg. Black peppercorns add a subtle warmth that adventurous drinkers will appreciate.

Serving Suggestions

Pour your mulled wine into heat-resistant glasses or ceramic mugs. Traditional glass mugs with handles work perfectly because they showcase the beautiful deep red color while protecting your hands from the heat.

Garnish each serving with a fresh orange slice and a cinnamon stick. This adds visual appeal and gives guests something to stir with.

For large gatherings, transfer the strained mulled wine to a slow cooker set on the “warm” setting. This keeps it at the perfect temperature throughout your party without any risk of overheating.

Consider setting up a small garnish station with extra cinnamon sticks, orange slices, and star anise. Guests love customizing their own drinks, and it creates a lovely interactive element.

Pair your mulled wine with a cozy ambiance. Dim the lights, light some candles, and let the aromatic steam work its magic on your guests.

FAQ

1. Can I make mulled wine ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare mulled wine up to 3 days in advance. Let it cool completely, then refrigerate in a sealed container. Reheat gently on the stove when ready to serve, being careful not to boil it.

2. What’s the best way to store leftover mulled wine?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Remove the whole spices before storing to prevent the flavors from becoming too intense or bitter.

Reheat individual portions in a saucepan or microwave.

3. Does all the alcohol cook off when making mulled wine?

No, most of the alcohol remains since you’re not boiling the wine. Gentle simmering preserves approximately 85% of the alcohol content. Keep this in mind when serving to guests and always drink responsibly.

4. Can I use a slow cooker to make mulled wine?

Yes, a slow cooker is excellent for making mulled wine! Add all ingredients and cook on low for 2-3 hours. This hands-off method is perfect for parties and keeps the wine at an ideal serving temperature without constant monitoring.

5. Why does my mulled wine taste bitter?

Bitterness usually comes from overheating the wine or steeping the spices too long. Always keep the heat low and never let the wine boil. If your wine still tastes bitter, add a bit more honey or sugar to balance the flavors.