How to Make Perfect Mulled Wine: A Warm Holiday Classic
Nothing says the holidays quite like a warm, spiced glass of mulled wine! It’s the perfect drink to gather around with friends and family, whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just cozying up by the fire. This recipe for homemade mulled wine is not only super easy to make, but it’s also incredibly customizable. Plus, I’ll share some variations, pairing ideas, and tips for storing and freezing, so you can get the most out of this festive drink.
What is Mulled Wine?
Mulled wine is simply wine that’s warmed and infused with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, along with some citrus and sweeteners. The result is a fragrant and flavorful drink that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. This drink has been a wintertime favorite for centuries, particularly in Europe, and is often served at Christmas markets. Whether you’re a mulled wine veteran or trying it for the first time, this recipe will make you fall in love with it.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bottle of red wine (a dry variety like Merlot or Cabernet works well)
- 1 orange, sliced
- 2-3 cinnamon sticks
- 5-6 whole cloves
- 2 star anise
- 2-4 tablespoons honey or sugar (adjust based on sweetness preference)
- 1/4 cup brandy (optional but highly recommended for a little extra warmth)
- Additional orange slices and cinnamon sticks for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat the Wine: In a large pot, pour in the bottle of red wine and set it over medium-low heat. You want it to warm up but never reach a boil.
- Add the Spices and Orange: Toss in the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise. These will infuse the wine with all their cozy flavors.
- Sweeten It Up: Stir in honey or sugar, adjusting to taste. You can start with 2 tablespoons and add more if you prefer a sweeter mulled wine.
- Optional Brandy Addition: For a bit more of a kick, stir in the brandy. This step is totally up to you, but it adds an extra layer of depth to the drink.
- Let It Simmer: Keep the wine on a low simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Be careful not to let it boil, as that will cook off the alcohol.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from heat, strain out the spices, and serve warm in mugs. Garnish with a slice of orange or a cinnamon stick for a festive touch.
FAQ About Mulled Wine:
Can I make mulled wine in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just combine all your ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for about an hour. It’s a great way to keep it warm for a party without worrying about it simmering on the stove.
What type of wine is best for mulled wine?
Dry red wines like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Shiraz are perfect for mulled wine. You don’t need to splurge on an expensive bottle since the flavors will be enhanced by the spices.
Can I make mulled wine without alcohol?
Yes! You can substitute the wine with grape juice or cranberry juice for a delicious alcohol-free version. Just keep in mind that you’ll want to reduce the sugar or honey since juice is naturally sweeter.
How long should I simmer mulled wine?
Aim for 15-20 minutes, but don’t go too long, or the alcohol will start to cook off. Low and slow is key here—just warm enough for the spices to infuse the wine.
Can I reheat mulled wine?
Yes! If you have leftovers, you can reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. Just make sure not to boil it.
Variations on the Classic Mulled Wine:
One of the best things about mulled wine is how easy it is to customize. Here are some fun twists to try:
- White Wine Mulled Wine: If you prefer white wine, try using a dry white like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Swap out the oranges for lemons or even pears, and add a dash of vanilla for a smooth, creamy finish.
- Apple Cider Mulled Wine: For a fall-inspired twist, add a cup of apple cider to your mulled wine. The sweet, tart cider adds a delicious depth of flavor that’s perfect for crisp autumn evenings.
- Spiced Rum Mulled Wine: Swap the brandy for spiced rum to add a Caribbean flair. The rum adds a unique warmth and complexity that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon and cloves.
- Cranberry Mulled Wine: Add a handful of fresh or frozen cranberries along with a splash of cranberry juice to give your mulled wine a fruity, tart kick. It also adds a beautiful color and festive touch.
- Rosé Mulled Wine: For a lighter, slightly sweeter version, try making mulled wine with rosé. It’s perfect for those who want a milder, less intense drink while still enjoying the warmth and spice.
Pairing Suggestions:
Mulled wine is a versatile drink that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of foods. Here are some ideas for what to serve with it:
- Cheese platter: Mulled wine pairs beautifully with a selection of cheeses like Brie, Gouda, and cheddar. The rich, creamy flavors complement the spiced sweetness of the wine.
- Roasted nuts: Almonds, pecans, or even spiced nuts work well alongside a glass of mulled wine. The salty crunch balances out the sweetness of the drink.
- Charcuterie: Meats like salami, prosciutto, and smoked sausage are a great savory counterpart to the warm, spiced flavors of the wine.
- Desserts: Mulled wine goes exceptionally well with holiday treats like gingerbread cookies, shortbread, or fruitcake. The sweet spices in the wine mirror the flavors of these festive goodies.
Storing and Freezing Mulled Wine:
Mulled wine is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers (which is rare!), here’s how to store it.
Storing in the Fridge:
Allow the mulled wine to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or a bottle with a cork. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stove over low heat, making sure not to boil it.
Freezing Mulled Wine:
If you want to make a big batch ahead of time, you can freeze mulled wine. Let the wine cool completely, then pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving a little room at the top for expansion. Mulled wine can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then warm it up gently on the stove.
Tips for Perfect Mulled Wine:
- Don’t let it boil: Boiling the wine will cook off the alcohol and make the spices taste bitter. Keep it on a low simmer for the best results.
- Taste as you go: Feel free to adjust the spices and sweetness to your liking. If you like it more citrusy, add an extra orange; if you prefer it sweeter, stir in more honey or sugar.
- Garnish for presentation: A slice of orange, a cinnamon stick, or a star anise pod makes a beautiful garnish and adds to the festive vibe.
Conclusion:
Mulled wine is a classic holiday drink that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a cozy drink to enjoy by the fire or something special to serve at your next gathering, this mulled wine recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, with so many variations and pairing options, you can truly make it your own. Give it a try this holiday season—you won’t be disappointed!
Mulled Wine
Ingredients
- 1 bottle red wine
- 1 orange sliced
- 2-3 cinnamon sticks
- 5-6 whole cloves
- 2 star anise
- 2-4 Tbsp honey OR sugar
- 1/4 cup brandy optional
- orange slices optional garnish
- cinnamon sticks optional garnish
Instructions
- Heat the wine in a large pot over medium-low heat.
- Add the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise.
- Stir in honey or sugar to taste.
- Optionally, add brandy for extra warmth.
- Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, then strain and serve warm.