As the colder months roll in, there’s nothing like a cozy cup of mulled wine to warm you up. This traditional holiday drink, infused with spices and citrus, has a sweet, aromatic flavor that fills your home with warmth. It’s easy to make and perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. Here’s a simple, classic recipe to make mulled wine at home.
Ingredients for Mulled Wine
- 1 bottle of red wine (750ml, a fruity, medium-bodied wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon works well)
- 1/4 cup brandy (optional, for a stronger kick)
- 1–2 oranges (one sliced, one for juice)
- 1/4 cup honey or sugar (to taste)
- 3–4 cinnamon sticks
- 4–5 whole cloves
- 2 star anise pods
- 1–2 cardamom pods (optional, for an extra hint of spice)
- Fresh ginger (a small slice, optional for warmth and depth)
- Additional garnishes: Orange slices, fresh cranberries, or a cinnamon stick for serving
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Slice one orange into rounds and squeeze the juice from another.
- Measure the honey or sugar and adjust to taste based on your desired sweetness level.
2. Combine in a Pot
- Pour the red wine into a medium saucepan or pot. Add the brandy, if using, and the orange juice.
- Add the sliced orange, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and ginger. Add honey or sugar to sweeten.
3. Warm the Mixture Gently
- Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid bringing it to a boil, as boiling will cook off the alcohol and create a more bitter taste.
- Let it simmer gently for about 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Taste and Adjust
- After simmering, taste the mulled wine. Add a bit more honey or sugar if you prefer it sweeter. For a stronger citrus flavor, add a few more orange slices.
5. Serve Warm
- Carefully strain out the spices and orange slices, then pour the mulled wine into mugs or heat-safe glasses.
- Garnish each serving with an orange slice, a cinnamon stick, or a few fresh cranberries for a festive look.
Tips for the Perfect Mulled Wine
- Choose the Right Wine: A medium-bodied, fruity red wine like Merlot, Grenache, or Zinfandel works best. Avoid overly expensive wine since the spices and sweeteners will alter the flavor.
- Customize the Sweetness and Spices: Adjust the honey, sugar, or spices to fit your preferences. Mulled wine is highly customizable!
- Make It Ahead: Mulled wine can be made ahead of time and gently reheated when ready to serve. Just keep it on low heat so it stays warm without losing alcohol content.
- Try White Mulled Wine: For a twist, use a dry white wine and replace the brandy with a splash of apple brandy or whiskey.
This warm, spiced mulled wine recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings, adding an inviting aroma and taste to your celebrations. Make a batch, cozy up by the fire, and enjoy the comforting flavors of the season. Cheers!
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