Mulled Wine with Spices

Introduction

Mulled Wine with Spices is a timeless winter beverage that warms you from the inside out. Originating from European holiday traditions, it’s made by gently heating red wine with aromatic spices, citrus, and a touch of sweetness. The result is a cozy, fragrant drink that’s perfect for sipping by the fire, sharing at holiday gatherings, or serving at festive markets. Its inviting aroma of cinnamon, cloves, and citrus instantly sets the holiday mood, making it one of the most beloved drinks of the winter season.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it turns something simple into something magical and festive. A bottle of wine, a few spices, and some citrus transform into a cozy, aromatic drink that feels like a warm hug on a cold winter evening. The way the cinnamon, cloves, and star anise blend with the rich wine creates a flavor that’s both comforting and elegant.

Another reason I adore this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile. You can adjust it to be sweeter, spicier, or even make a non-alcoholic version for everyone to enjoy. It’s quick to prepare, yet it feels special and celebratory every time you serve it.

I also love how social and inviting it is—mulled wine isn’t just a drink; it’s an experience. Sharing a pot of warm, spiced wine with family or friends makes gatherings feel more intimate, cozy, and joyful.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

1. Festive Tradition – A classic in European holiday markets and winter gatherings, this drink instantly sets a cozy and celebratory mood.
2. Aromatic & Inviting – The gentle simmering of wine with cinnamon, cloves, and citrus fills your home with a warm, festive fragrance that feels like Christmas itself.
3. Comfort in Every Sip – The balance of rich wine, zesty citrus, and warming spices makes this drink the perfect antidote to chilly evenings.
4. Simple & Customizable – Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe can be adjusted to your taste—sweeter, spicier, or even non-alcoholic with fruit juice.
5. Perfect for Entertaining – It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be made in big batches and kept warm for guests throughout the evening.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6 glasses
• Calories per serving: ~210 kcal

Cuisine, Cooking Method & Course

• Cuisine: European (German, Austrian, British, Nordic influences)
• Cooking Method: Simmering (stovetop)
• Course: Beverage (alcoholic)

Ingredients

• 1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine (Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Shiraz work well)
• 1 orange, sliced (plus more for garnish)
• 1 lemon, sliced (optional)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 5 whole cloves
• 3 star anise
• 3–4 cardamom pods (optional)
• ¼ cup honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
• ¼ cup brandy (optional, for stronger flavor)
• Fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds (optional garnish)

Directions (Step-by-Step)

1. Pour the bottle of red wine into a large saucepan or pot.
2. Add orange slices, lemon slices, and all the spices.

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Step 2: Sweeten and Infuse

1. Stir in honey or sugar.
2. Add brandy if desired for extra warmth and depth.

Step 3: Heat Gently

1. Warm over low to medium heat for about 20 minutes.
2. Do not let it boil—just keep it at a gentle simmer to infuse flavors without cooking off too much alcohol.

Step 4: Serve

1. Strain the wine to remove whole spices and fruit slices.
2. Serve warm in heatproof glasses or mugs.
3. Garnish with a cinnamon stick, orange slice, or star anise for presentation.

How to Serve

• Serve warm in mugs or glass cups with handles.
• Garnish with fresh orange slices, a cinnamon stick, or cranberries.
• Pair with gingerbread cookies, cheese boards, or roasted nuts.

Additional Tips & Variations

• Non-Alcoholic Version: Replace wine with grape juice or cranberry juice.
• White Mulled Wine: Use white wine instead of red for a lighter variation.
• Spice Variations: Try nutmeg, allspice, or fresh ginger for different flavor profiles.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the spiced wine base, strain, and reheat before serving.

Freezing & Storage

• Storage: Store cooled mulled wine in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the flavor balance may change after thawing.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large saucepan or pot
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
• Heatproof mugs or glasses

Conclusion

Mulled Wine with Spices is a classic holiday drink that combines warmth, comfort, and festive charm. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a drink that fills the home with irresistible aromas and brings people together. Whether you’re hosting a party, relaxing by the fire, or enjoying a cozy winter evening, this recipe is a must-have for the season.

Print Recipe

Mulled Wine with Spices

Author: Emily Clark Cooking Method: Simmering Courses: Beverage

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 30 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 210kcal

Description

Mulled Wine with Spices is a timeless winter beverage that warms you from the inside out. Originating from European holiday traditions, it’s made by gently heating red wine with aromatic spices, citrus, and a touch of sweetness. The result is a cozy,

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1 bottle (750 ml)
• 1 orange, sliced (plus more for garnish)
• 1 lemon, sliced (optional)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 5 whole cloves
• 3 star anise
• 3 cardamom 3–4 pods (optional)
• ¼ cup honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
• ¼ cup brandy (optional, for stronger flavor)
• Fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds (optional garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Base : Pour the bottle of red wine into a large saucepan or pot.Add orange slices, lemon slices, and all the spices.
2. Step 2: Sweeten and Infuse : Stir in honey or sugar.Add brandy if desired for extra warmth and depth.
3. Step 3: Heat Gently : Warm over low to medium heat for about 20 minutes.Do not let it boil—just keep it at a gentle simmer to infuse flavors without cooking off too much alcohol.
4. Step 4: Serve : Strain the wine to remove whole spices and fruit slices.Serve warm in heatproof glasses or mugs.Garnish with a cinnamon stick, orange slice, or star anise for presentation.

Note

Short Note About This Recipe

This Mulled Wine with Spices is a festive European-inspired holiday drink made by gently simmering red wine with citrus, spices, and a touch of sweetness. It’s warm, aromatic, and perfect for cozy winter nights or holiday celebrations.

Keywords: Mulled Wine with Spices is a classic