Christmas Mulled Wine Recipe: A Warm Holiday Classic
As Christmas approaches, the weather grows colder with each passing day. When temperatures drop, people naturally crave warm foods and hot drinks to fend off the chill. As a result, even wine—traditionally enjoyed at room temperature or chilled—has found its way into a warm, comforting form. This festive drink is known as mulled wine.
Mulled wine, also commonly referred to as spiced wine or hot wine, is a seasonal staple in many European countries such as Germany and France, especially during autumn and winter celebrations like Halloween and Christmas. The history of mulled wine in Europe can be traced back to Roman times. In ancient Rome, people would add sugar and spices to wine to enhance its flavor and extend its shelf life. By around 30 BC, the Romans had already developed a list of ingredients for making spiced wine, using spices such as cinnamon, anise, and thyme—remarkably similar to those used in modern mulled wine recipes. This long history shows that drinking mulled wine is a deeply rooted European tradition.
The basic method of making mulled wine can be summarized simply: adding spices to wine and gently heating it. As is well known, wine is a delicate and fragile beverage. Heating causes some of its aromas and flavors to dissipate and alters its mouthfeel. To compensate for these losses during heating, various spices are added and warmed together with the wine. In addition, since some alcohol evaporates during the heating process, a small amount of spirits is sometimes added to boost the alcohol content. If no additional spirits are used, the final alcohol level of mulled wine typically ranges from 7% to 14.5% ABV.
Red wine is the most commonly used base for mulled wine, but in fact, white wine, rosé, and even fortified wines can also be used. Common spices include cinnamon, ginger, cloves, star anise, vanilla, orange peel, and nutmeg. Depending on personal preference, sliced fruits or fruit juices can also be added to enhance the flavor.
Below is a classic recipe and preparation method for mulled red wine. With Christmas just around the corner, why not try making a cup of warm, comforting mulled wine yourself to warm both body and soul?
Ingredients
- 1 bottle 750 ml red wine
Recommended varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, or Merlot - 1 orange, sliced
- 1/4 cup brandy
- 8–10 cloves
- 1/3 cup honey (or sugar)
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
(or 2 teaspoons ground ginger; allspice may also be used as a substitute)
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a pot. Heat gently over low to medium heat for 20–25 minutes, taking care not to let the wine boil.
- Stir occasionally to ensure the honey or sugar dissolves completely. When you begin to see signs of simmering—such as steady steam rising from the pot—remove it from the heat.
- Strain out the spices and solids, then pour the wine into serving glasses. Your mulled wine is ready to enjoy.
Cooking Tips
- Choose a wine that is sound and straightforward in style. Avoid wines with obvious faults or overly complex flavors.
- Be careful not to overheat the mulled wine, as excessive cooking will cause the fruit flavors to fade and may introduce bitterness. Once the temperature reaches 78°C (172°F), alcohol will begin to evaporate rapidly.
- The type and quantity of spices can be adjusted to personal taste, but avoid adding too many at once, as overpowering spice notes can mask the wine’s natural fruit character. If the wine has a higher residual sugar level, reduce the amount of honey or sugar accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is mulled wine?
A: Mulled wine is a warm, spiced wine traditionally enjoyed during autumn and winter holidays, especially Christmas. It is made by gently heating wine with spices, citrus, and sweeteners.
Q: What type of wine is best for mulled wine?
A: Red wine is most commonly used. Simple, fruit-forward wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, or Merlot work best. Avoid overly complex or flawed wines.
Q: Can white or rosé wine be used for mulled wine?
A: Yes. While red wine is traditional, white wine, rosé, and even fortified wines can also be used, depending on personal preference.
Q: How sweet should mulled wine be?
A: Sweetness is a matter of personal preference. Honey or sugar is commonly used, but if the wine already has residual sugar, less sweetener is needed.
Q: What foods pair well with mulled wine?
A: Mulled wine pairs well with Christmas desserts, roasted nuts, spiced cookies, fruit cakes, and other festive treats.
Q: How should mulled wine be stored if it’s not finished right away?
A:Mulled wine is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, proper storage is important to preserve its flavor. Once the wine has been heated, it should be cooled down as soon as possible, transferred to a sealed container, and stored at a stable, cool temperature. Refrigeration helps slow oxidation and prevents aromas from fading too quickly. For more consistent temperature control—especially during the Christmas season when multiple wines are being served—a wine fridge offers an ideal environment, keeping leftover mulled wine and unopened bottles fresh without sudden temperature fluctuations.