Contents
- The basic ingredients of mulled wine and their properties
- Ideas for traditional mulled wine
- Innovative and modern recipes for mulled wine
- Recipes for non-alcoholic mulled wine
- Tips and tricks on how to make mulled wine
- Summary
Mulled wine is one of those drinks inextricably associated with cool evenings and the autumn and winter climate. Its roots date back to ancient times, when the Romans heated wine with spices to warm themselves on winter evenings. Today, its popularity is particularly evident in Central Europe, where it appears at Christmas markets and in local taverns.
Mulled wine takes on different forms and flavors in different cultures. In Poland, it's traditionally made with red wine, natural honey , cinnamon, cloves, and citrus. In France, it's known as " vin chaud ," and in Scandinavia as " glögg ," where almonds and raisins are often added. Each region has its own unique recipes and secrets that make mulled wine so special.
It's worth reaching for this drink, especially when the days are shorter and the temperatures drop. Mulled wine not only warms you up but also has some health benefits, thanks to the presence of Christmas Spices like cinnamon, cloves, anise, and ginger. Each of them not only brings a unique aroma but also has anti-inflammatory properties and strengthens the immune system.
In this article, we'll explore different varieties of mulled wine—from classic to modern versions. You'll find recipes for mulled wine made with red wine, white wine, beer, and cider, as well as suggestions for non-alcoholic mulled wine . If you're looking for inspiration for an autumn evening or a winter feast, you've come to the right place!
The basic ingredients of mulled wine and their properties
Mulled wine is a drink that combines a wealth of aromas and flavors, resulting from the selection of appropriate ingredients. The basis of classic mulled wine is high-quality wine , enriched with a blend of spices and fruits.
Each of these elements not only adds flavor, but also brings unique health properties that can support the body in the fall and winter.
1. Wine
- Red wine is the most popular choice for mulled wine. Rich in tannins and antioxidants, red wine supports heart health and circulatory system. Additionally, a warm drink made with it has a warming effect, perfect for cold days.
- White wine offers an alternative to the classic version. Lighter and more refreshing, white wine pairs well with citrus fruits, giving mulled wine a fresh touch. Thanks to its antioxidant content and lower tannin content, it has a milder flavor, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer more delicate aromas.
- Beer and cider are other interesting bases for mulled wine. Beer-based mulled wine often uses dark, rich beers, which pair perfectly with spices. Apple cider, on the other hand, gives the drink a distinctive sweetness and lightness.
2. Spices
- Cinnamon – one of the key spices in mulled wine. It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and supports the immune system. It has a warm, sweet flavor that gives the drink a pleasant aroma.
- Cloves – Their intense, spicy aroma and flavor enrich mulled wine. Additionally, cloves are known for their analgesic and antiviral properties. They also aid digestion and help fight colds.
- Anise – The sweet and spicy flavor of anise adds depth to the drink. It is also an effective digestive aid and soothes a sore throat.
- Ginger – not only warms you up, but also supports immunity and improves blood circulation. Fresh or dried, it adds a delicate spice and distinctive flavor to mulled wine.
Mulled wine spice organic 50 g - Dary Natury
3. Fruits
- Citrus fruits – orange and lemon slices add freshness and lightness to the mulled wine. Thanks to their high vitamin C content, they support the immune system, which is especially important during periods of increased cold susceptibility.
- Apples – added to cider-based mulled wine, but also work well in traditional wine versions. Apples impart a natural sweetness to the drink and are rich in fiber and vitamins.
- Dried fruit —raisins, cranberries, and prunes—add sweetness and additional flavor. Dried fruit provides natural sugars, vitamins, and minerals, further enhancing the mulled wine's nutritional value.
Each of these ingredients has its own unique properties, which, when combined, create a unique beverage. Selecting the right organic spices and additives allows you to customize your mulled wine to your own tastes, ensuring everyone can find their perfect version of this warming beverage.
Ideas for traditional mulled wine
Traditional mulled wine has many variations, varying by region and individual preferences. Below, you'll find a few classic mulled wine recipes that are perfect for cold days, warming you up and getting you in the holiday spirit.
1. Classic mulled red wine
Ingredients:
- 750 ml red wine (e.g. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon)
- 1 orange (sliced)
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 5-6 cloves
- 2-3 stars of anise
- 3-4 slices of ginger
- 2-3 tablespoons of honey or sugar (to taste)
- Optional: 50 ml brandy or rum
Preparation method:
- Pour the red wine into a pot and heat over low heat.
- Add orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, anise and ginger.
- Gently heat the mixture, but do not bring it to a boil. The mulled wine should be just warm, not boiling.
- After about 15-20 minutes, add honey or sugar to taste, stirring until dissolved.
- If you like, add brandy or rum at the end to give the drink a more intense flavor.
- Serve the mulled wine hot, garnishing with a slice of orange or a cinnamon stick.
2. Mulled beer with spices
Ingredients:
- 500 ml dark beer (e.g. stout or porter)
- 1 orange (juice and peel)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4-5 cloves
- 2-3 slices of fresh ginger
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- Optional: a pinch of black pepper to taste
Ceylon cinnamon sticks organic 6 pcs - Lebensbaum
Preparation method:
- Heat the beer in a pot over low heat, without bringing it to a boil.
- Add orange juice and zest, as well as spices – cinnamon, cloves, ginger and pepper (optional).
- Heat for 10-15 minutes, then add honey and mix thoroughly.
- Serve warm, garnishing with orange peel or a cinnamon stick.
3. Mulled apple cider with cinnamon and cloves
Ingredients:
- 750 ml apple cider
- 1 apple (sliced)
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 5-6 cloves
- 1 star anise
- 1 orange (juice and peel)
- 2-3 tablespoons of honey or brown sugar
Preparation method:
- Pour the apple cider into a pot and heat over low heat.
- Add apple slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, anise, orange juice and zest.
- Heat for about 15-20 minutes, avoiding boiling so as not to lose the flavor and aroma of the spices.
- Finally, add honey or sugar and mix well.
- Serve hot, garnishing with apple or orange slices and a cinnamon stick.
4. Galician Mulled Wine
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle of red wine
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- 1 orange (sliced)
- 1 lemon (sliced)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 5 cloves
- 1 star anise
- 1 piece of ginger (approx. 2 cm, sliced)
Organic Cloves 30 g - Dary Natury
Preparation method:
- In a pot, heat the wine over low heat, without bringing it to a boil.
- Add honey and stir until dissolved.
- Add orange slices, lemon, cinnamon, cloves, anise and ginger.
- Simmer over low heat for about 20 minutes to allow the spices to release their aroma.
- Strain the mulled wine through a strainer and serve hot.
5. French Mulled Wine (Vin Chaud)
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle of red wine
- 1/4 cup of sugar
- 1 orange (sliced)
- 1 lemon (sliced)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 cloves
- 1 nutmeg (grated)
- 1/4 cup brandy (optional)
Preparation method:
- In a pot, heat the wine over low heat.
- Add sugar and stir until dissolved.
- Add orange slices, lemon, cinnamon, cloves and grated nutmeg.
- Simmer over low heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- If using brandy, add it at the end and mix gently.
- Strain the mulled wine through a strainer and serve hot.
6. Scandinavian Glögg
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle of red wine
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1 orange (sliced)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 5 cloves
- 1 piece of ginger (approx. 2 cm, sliced)
- 1/4 cup of raisins
- 1/4 cup almonds (blanched)
- 1/4 cup vodka or rum (optional)
Preparation method:
- In a pot, heat the water and sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Add wine, orange slices, cinnamon, cloves and ginger.
- Simmer over low heat for about 20 minutes.
- Add raisins and almonds, and if using, vodka or rum.
- Heat for another 5 minutes.
- Strain the mulled wine through a strainer and serve hot, with raisins and almonds.
Each of these traditional mulled wine recipes brings something unique and different to the drink, allowing you to enjoy a variety of flavors depending on your mood and available ingredients. These simple yet flavorful recipes are perfect for long, cool evenings.
Innovative and modern recipes for mulled wine
Classic mulled wine has many fans, but for those seeking new flavors and unusual combinations, there are many modern variations of this drink. These innovative versions of mulled wine can be perfect for special occasions or simply as an alternative to traditional flavors.
Below you will find some interesting recipes that will surprise you with their creativity.
7. Mulled white wine with citrus and mint
Ingredients:
- 750 ml white wine (e.g. Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling)
- 1 lemon and 1 lime (sliced)
- 1 orange (sliced)
- 2-3 sprigs of fresh mint
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 tablespoons of honey or agave syrup
- Optional: a few slices of fresh ginger
Preparation method:
- Pour white wine into a pot and heat over low heat.
- Add citrus slices (lemon, lime and orange), cinnamon and mint.
- Heat for 15 minutes, allowing the ingredients to combine well, but avoid boiling.
- Add honey or agave syrup to taste and mix well.
- Serve warm, garnishing with a sprig of mint and a slice of lemon.
8. Mulled wine with rum, spices and vanilla
Ingredients:
- 500 ml of red wine
- 100 ml rum (preferably dark)
- 1 vanilla pod (cut lengthwise)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 5 cloves
- 2-3 orange slices
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- Optional: a pinch of nutmeg
Bourbon vanilla stick ORGANIC 1 pc - Lebensbaum
Preparation method:
- Heat the red wine in a pot, add the vanilla pod, cinnamon, cloves, orange slices and nutmeg.
- After about 10 minutes, add the rum, stirring gently. Be careful not to bring the mixture to a boil so the alcohol doesn't evaporate.
- Heat for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
- Finally, add honey to taste and serve warm, garnishing with an orange slice or vanilla pod.
9. Mulled tea with hibiscus and raspberries
Ingredients:
- 500 ml of strong hibiscus infusion
- 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
- 2-3 cinnamon sticks
- 3-4 cloves
- 2-3 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
- Optional: a pinch of star anise for extra flavor
Hibiscus Tea ORGANIC 50 g - Dary Natury
Preparation method:
- Brew the hibiscus tea and pour it into a pot.
- Add fresh or frozen raspberries, cinnamon, cloves and star anise.
- Simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing all the flavors to combine.
- Add lemon juice and honey or maple syrup to taste, mixing thoroughly.
- Serve hot, garnishing with a few raspberries and a cinnamon stick.
10. Mulled white wine and cranberries
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle of white wine
- 1/2 cup of cranberry juice
- 1/4 cup of sugar
- 1 orange (sliced)
- 1 lemon (sliced)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 cloves
- 1 piece of ginger (approx. 2 cm, sliced)
Preparation method:
- In a pot, heat the wine and cranberry juice over low heat.
- Add sugar and stir until dissolved.
- Add orange slices, lemon, cinnamon, cloves and ginger.
- Simmer over low heat for about 20 minutes.
- Strain the mulled wine through a strainer and serve hot.
11. Mulled beer and chocolate
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle of dark beer
- 1/4 cup of cocoa
- 1/4 cup of sugar
- 1/4 cup of milk
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3 cloves
- 1 piece of ginger (approx. 2 cm, sliced)
Preparation method:
- In a pot, heat the beer over low heat.
- Add cocoa, sugar and milk, mixing until combined.
- Add cinnamon, cloves and ginger.
- Simmer over low heat for about 15 minutes, without bringing to a boil.
- Strain the mulled wine through a strainer and serve hot.
These interesting mulled wine recipes introduce new ingredients that give the drink a fresh and modern touch. They open up the possibility of experimenting with different spirits, teas, herbs, and fruits, making mulled wine even more diverse and interesting. They're perfect for gatherings with friends or romantic evenings.
Recipes for non-alcoholic mulled wine
Non-alcoholic mulled wine is an excellent alternative for those who want to enjoy a warming beverage but prefer to avoid alcohol. Non-alcoholic varieties are just as aromatic and flavorful as the classic versions, and are also ideal for children and those with alcohol intolerances.
Below are recipes for non-alcoholic mulled wine that will make winter evenings more pleasant and relaxing.
12. Mulled wine based on apple juice with spices
Ingredients:
- 1 liter of natural apple juice (preferably pressed)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 5-6 cloves
- 2-3 orange slices
- 1 star anise
- 1-2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup (to taste)
- Optional: 2-3 slices of ginger
Preparation method:
- Pour the apple juice into a pot and heat over low heat.
- Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, orange slices, anise and optional ginger.
- Simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aromas. Do not bring to a boil.
- Finally, add honey or maple syrup to taste, stirring until dissolved.
- Serve the mulled wine hot, garnishing with a slice of orange or a cinnamon stick.
13. Orange and cranberry mulled wine with cinnamon
Ingredients:
- 500 ml orange juice (preferably freshly squeezed)
- 500 ml cranberry juice
- 2-3 cinnamon sticks
- 4-5 cloves
- 1 orange (sliced)
- 2 tablespoons of honey or brown sugar (to taste)
- Optional: a dash of lemon juice to balance the flavor
Preparation method:
- In a pot, combine orange juice and cranberry juice.
- Add cinnamon sticks, cloves and orange slices.
- Simmer over low heat for about 15 minutes, without bringing to a boil.
- Add honey or sugar to taste, and if the drink is too sweet, add a little lemon juice.
- Serve warm, garnished with a slice of orange or fresh cranberries.
14. Mulled tea with fruit and spices
Ingredients:
- 1 liter of fruit tea (e.g. hibiscus, raspberry, cherry)
- 1 orange and 1 lemon (sliced)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 3-4 cloves
- 2-3 tablespoons of honey or agave syrup
- Optional: a few apple slices or frozen berries for extra flavor
Fruit Paradise Tea ORGANIC 100 g - Dary Natury
Preparation method:
- Brew the fruit tea and pour it into a pot.
- Add orange slices, lemon slices, cinnamon sticks and cloves.
- Heat for 10-15 minutes to give the drink an intense flavor and aroma.
- Add honey or agave syrup, mixing thoroughly.
- Serve warm, garnishing with citrus slices and optional apple slices or berries.
15. Mulled cherry juice
Ingredients:
- 500 ml cherry juice
- 1 orange (sliced)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 8-10 cloves
- 2 stars of anise
- A pinch of ground cardamom
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
Preparation method:
- Pour the cherry juice into a pot and heat over low heat.
- Add orange slices, cinnamon, cloves, anise and cardamom.
- Heat over low heat for about 10-15 minutes, without bringing to a boil.
- Add brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
- Strain the mulled wine through a strainer and serve hot.
Non-alcoholic versions of mulled wine offer a variety of flavors and aromas, making this drink not only a healthy alternative but also exceptionally delicious. Using natural juices, spices, and fruits, you can create a drink that not only warms you up but also provides vitamins and antioxidants.
Tips and tricks on how to make mulled wine
Mulled wine is a drink that can be customized to suit individual preferences and tastes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best flavor and aroma, regardless of the type of mulled wine you choose:
1. Choosing the right wine or base
- Full-bodied red wines, such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Zinfandel, are best for classic mulled wine . Wines that are too light in flavor may not retain their character after the addition of spices.
- Mulled wines made with white wine are best served with aromatic and slightly sweet wines, such as Riesling or Moscato, which will pair perfectly with citrus fruits and mint.
- Non-alcoholic mulled wines taste great made with pressed fruit juices or tea infusions. Natural apple juice or hibiscus tea give mulled wine a unique flavor and are also healthy.
2. Rules for seasoning mulled wine
- Don't overdo it with the spices. Too much can overpower the flavor of the drink itself. It's always better to use less and, if necessary, add more spices during cooking.
- Whole spices, not ground. Cinnamon sticks, cloves, anise, and ginger pieces enhance the flavor and can be easily removed before serving. Ground spices can cause sediment and cloudiness.
- Cinnamon and cloves are classic mulled wine spices, but it's worth experimenting with others, such as cardamom, anise or nutmeg, to achieve a more complex flavor.
3. Heating time and temperature
- Avoid boiling – it is crucial to heat the mulled wine over low heat and avoid boiling, especially with alcoholic beverages, to avoid losing the alcohol.
- Heating time – the optimal time is 15-20 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aromas without sacrificing the drink's flavor. Non-alcoholic mulled wines can be heated longer to bring out the full flavor of the spices.
4. Sweetening the drink
- Honey, cane sugar, or maple syrup —all of these options will add sweetness to the drink, but also enhance its flavor. When choosing honey, remember to add it at the end, once the drink is warmed but not boiling, to preserve its health benefits.
- Avoid over-sweetening. You can always add more natural sweetener later if the drink isn't sweet enough.
5. Experimenting with Add-ons
- Citrus fruits – both the juice and zest of citrus fruits (lemon, orange, lime) add freshness and tartness. It's a good idea to add the zest to the simmering mulled wine, but be sure to remove the white part (albedo), which can impart a bitter aftertaste.
- Fresh fruit —raspberries, cranberries, and apples—can add a unique flavor and appearance to mulled wine. It's worth trying different fruits, which will enhance the drink with natural notes.
- Herbs and flowers – mint, rosemary, and hibiscus flowers – are original additions that can give mulled wine a unique character. They pair well with fruity non-alcoholic versions.
6. Method of administration
- Glasses and mugs made of thick glass or ceramic work best because they retain heat better and prevent burning your hands.
- Decorations – a cinnamon stick, a citrus slice, a few cranberries or orange peel on the rim of the glass will make the mulled wine look even more appetizing.
These tips and tricks will help you create mulled wine that's not only delicious but also beautifully presented. Mulled wine is a drink that can be personalized in many ways, so don't be afraid to experiment and find your favorite recipe for this warming beverage!
Summary
Mulled wine is a perfect drink for chilly evenings, bringing warmth and the aroma of spices. Whether you choose the traditional red wine version, modern flavor combinations, or a non-alcoholic option, mulled wine is always a great choice for a warming winter drink.
It's worth experimenting with different ingredients, spices, and additions to find your favorite version. Introducing new flavors like white wine, citrus, mint, or hibiscus opens up a wealth of possibilities for creative beverage lovers. Let's also not forget the health benefits of spices and fruits added to mulled wine—from improving digestion to boosting immunity.
Making mulled wine can be a true pleasure, allowing you to enjoy the winter climate in style. Invite your friends and family to share this aromatic beverage – it's sure to warm not only your body but also your spirit!
