Steaming mug of mulled wine with orange slice and cinnamon stick

Hot Drink

Mulled Wine

How to make mulled wine - the classic hot Christmas drink from red wine, cinnamon, cloves and orange. An easy recipe for the perfect winter treat.

20 minPrep time
easyDifficulty
Mulled wine mugGlass
6Serving(s)

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Mulled wine is the very essence of Christmas: spiced red wine that slowly turns into an aromatic hot drink with cinnamon, cloves and orange. The scent alone instantly conjures up festive Advent mood. With this easy recipe the classic succeeds at home better than at any Christmas market.

Instructions

  1. Pour the red wine into a large pot.
  2. Add the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise and sugar.
  3. Slowly heat everything, but do not let it boil.
  4. Let it steep over low heat for about 15 minutes.
  5. Strain off the spices and pour the mulled wine hot into mugs.
  6. Garnish with an orange slice and a cinnamon stick.

Garnish: Orange slice and cinnamon stick

Pro tip: Never let the mulled wine boil - above 78 degrees the alcohol evaporates and the aroma suffers. Keep it warm just below the boiling point.

Frequently asked questions

Which red wine is best for mulled wine?

A dry, full-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir, Merlot or Dornfelder works well. It should be fruity but not too heavy.

Why must mulled wine not boil?

From about 78 degrees the alcohol evaporates and bitter aromas can develop. Mulled wine should therefore only be heated, not boiled.

How long should mulled wine steep?

About 10 to 15 minutes over low heat is enough for the spices to release their aroma without the wine turning bitter.

Ingredients

  • Dry red wine1 liter
  • Organic orange (sliced)1 piece
  • Cinnamon sticks2 pieces
  • Cloves4 pieces
  • Sugar3 tbsp
  • Star anise2 pieces