Introduction
Mulled Wine is a classic winter beverage, perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy evenings, or winter parties. This warm, spiced drink, featuring red wine infused with cinnamon, cloves, and citrus, delivers a rich, aromatic flavor with a comforting, festive warmth. Presented in heatproof mugs or glasses, optionally garnished with an orange slice or cinnamon stick, this Mulled Wine recipe offers a rustic, inviting aesthetic that elevates any occasion. This recipe provides a simple homemade version with minimal ingredients, adaptable for various preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing drink that brings cozy, seasonal charm to any setting.
Ingredients
For the Mulled Wine:
- 1 (750 ml) bottle red wine (e.g., Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Zinfandel)
- 1/4 cup honey or granulated sugar
- 1 orange, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 8 whole cloves
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 4-star anise
- 1/4 cup brandy (optional, for depth)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for warmth)
For Serving:
- Optional: Orange slices, cinnamon sticks
- Suggested Accompaniments: Gingerbread, cheese platter, roasted nuts
- Suggested Pairings: Holiday cookies, charcuterie
- Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in heatproof mugs or glasses
- Suggested Equipment: Large saucepan, wooden spoon, ladle, heatproof mugs or glasses, measuring cups/spoons, zester (optional)
Step-by-Step Process
- Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine red wine, honey (or sugar), orange slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, star anise, brandy (if using), and vanilla extract (if using).
- Heat Mixture: Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the honey or sugar dissolves and the mixture is just below a simmer (about 10 minutes). Do not boil to preserve alcohol content and flavor.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the mulled wine and adjust with a bit more honey for sweetness, a squeeze of orange juice for brightness, or an extra clove for spice to ensure a balanced flavor.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let simmer gently for 15–20 minutes to meld flavors, stirring occasionally.
- Strain (Optional): To achieve a smoother texture, strain out the spices and orange slices using a fine mesh strainer. Alternatively, leave the spices in for a rustic presentation.
- Serve: Ladle the mulled wine into heatproof mugs or glasses. Optionally garnish with an orange slice or cinnamon stick. Serve with gingerbread, a cheese platter, roasted nuts, holiday cookies, or charcuterie.
Tips for Better Mulled Wine
- Use a medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or Zinfandel for balanced flavor; avoid overly expensive wines, as spices dominate.
- Taste the mixture before serving to balance sweetness, spice, and citrus; adjust cautiously to avoid overpowering the wine.
- Keep the heat low to prevent boiling, which can evaporate alcohol and alter flavor.
- Use fresh oranges for vibrant citrus notes; zest some peel for extra aroma if desired.
- Present in heatproof mugs or glasses to highlight the warm, ruby-red hue and rustic garnish.
- Make ahead: Prepare and simmer up to 1 day in advance; store in the fridge, reheat gently, and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Add brandy for a richer, warmer finish, but omit for a lighter drink.
- Enhance aesthetic: Garnish with a thin orange slice or cinnamon stick for a cozy, festive pop.
Variations and Customization
- Non-Alcoholic Mulled Wine: Replace wine with grape juice and omit brandy; simmer with the same spices.
- Spiced Apple Mulled Wine: Add 1 cup apple cider for a sweeter, apple-infused flavor.
- White Mulled Wine: For a lighter, crisper drink, use a dry white wine (e.g., Sauvignon Blanc) instead of red.
- Spicy Mulled Wine: Add 1/4 tsp ground ginger or 2 cardamom pods for extra warmth.
- Low-Sugar Mulled Wine: Reduce honey or sugar to 2 tbsp or use a sugar-free sweetener like stevia.
- Citrus Mulled Wine: Include lemon slices or 1/4 cup lemon juice for a tangier profile.
- Berry Mulled Wine: Add 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
- Mulled Rosé Wine: Use a dry rosé wine for a lighter, pink-hued variation.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Store leftover mulled wine in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat.
- Do not freeze, as the wine’s flavor and spices may degrade.
- Serve warm (not scalding) for the best comforting, aromatic experience.
- Use as a standalone drink or pair with festive snacks or meals.
- Pair with holiday cookies or charcuterie to complement the spiced, warm flavors.
- Present in heatproof mugs or glasses with garnishes for a rustic, inviting charm.
Conclusion
This Mulled Wine recipe delivers a warm, festive drink perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings, transforming simple ingredients into a comforting favorite. Its easy preparation and rustic presentation make it a go-to. The spiced wine and citrusy aroma delight with every sip. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing warmth.
Mulled Wine Recipe: Warm and Festive
Classic Mulled Wine with warm, festive flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 750 ml bottle of red wine
- ¼ cup honey or granulated sugar
- 1 orange sliced
- 8 whole cloves
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4- star anise
- ¼ cup brandy optional
- 1 tsp vanilla extract optional
- Optional: Orange slices cinnamon sticks
- Suggested Pairings: Holiday cookies charcuterie
Instructions
- Combine wine, honey, orange slices, cloves, cinnamon, star anise, brandy, and vanilla in a saucepan.
- Heat over medium-low until sugar dissolves (10 minutes); don’t boil.
- Taste and adjust with honey or orange juice.
- Simmer on low for 15–20 minutes.
- Optionally strain spices.
- Ladle into heatproof mugs; garnish with orange or cinnamon stick; serve with cookies.
Notes
- Use medium-bodied red wine.
- Store in the fridge for 3 days; reheat gently.
- Try a non-alcoholic or white wine variation.
- Pair with gingerbread.
