Mulled Wine

History and Origins

Mulled wine has a history as rich as its flavor. Originating in 2nd century Rome, it was a clever way to use up leftover wine by adding spices and heating it. As the Romans traveled, the recipe spread across Europe, evolving into the beloved holiday tradition it is today. Each culture put its own spin on the drink, leading to various versions like the German Glühwein and the Nordic Glögg.

The appeal of mulled wine extends beyond the festive holiday season. It embodies the spirit of warmth and hospitality, making it perfect for any winter gathering. With its delightful aroma and comforting flavor, mulled wine is sure to make lasting memories.

Celebrate the holidays with a pot of mulled wine that fills the home with a comforting scent of spices and oranges. Ready to recreate this heartwarming tradition? Gather the ingredients, get creative with favorite spices, and enjoy a glass of this delightful, spiced mulled wine!

How to Make Mulled Wine

This recipe is sweet and simple, perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners. To start, gather all the ingredients: two bottles of dry red wine, a bit of brandy, a little honey, oranges, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and allspice.

Feel free to experiment with the mulling spices. Star anise can add a subtle licorice note, while a few cardamom pods can introduce a complex, aromatic layer. The key is to balance the spices without overwhelming the wine's natural flavors, but the rest is up to you!

Preparation Steps

In a Dutch oven or a large saucepan, mix all the ingredients. There’s no special order or timing, so feel free to toss them all in! Heat the mixture uncovered over low heat until it's simmering. This simmering process allows the spices to infuse their flavors into the wine. Let it simmer for an hour, keeping an eye on it to ensure it remains at a gentle simmer and doesn't come to a full boil. If your mulled wine starts to boil it can turn bitter, change the flavor of the spices, and burn off some of the alcohol. Your last step is to pour the mixture through a strainer into a heatproof pitcher or punch bowl to remove the spices and orange slices.

How to Serve

Mulled wine warm is best served when still warm. You can garnished with additional cinnamon sticks and orange slices for a fancier presentation. The glassware you use is a personal preference but be aware the temperature is important to consider. A slightly warm beverage is great in glass containers to show off the beverage’s rich holiday red color. If you and your visitors like a piping hot drink, think about serving them in festive holiday mugs instead. Be aware, this recipe will make you and your guests approximately 12 servings. This is usually a perfect amount, but feel free to change the proportions to serve the right size crowd for your get together.