Description
This Mulled Wine recipe is a warm and comforting spiced beverage perfect for chilly evenings and festive gatherings. Combining a bottle of dry, fruity red wine with apple cider, honey, and a blend of aromatic spices like cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, and star anise, it is gently simmered to develop deep flavors. Finished with a splash of brandy and garnished with orange slices and cinnamon sticks, this drink offers a cozy, fragrant experience that’s easy to prepare and serves six.
Ingredients
Wine and Liquids
- 750 ml dry, fruity red wine (1 bottle — Merlot, Zinfandel, or Cabernet Sauvignon all work well)
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1/4 cup brandy
Sweeteners and Citrus
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 orange (zested and juiced)
Spices
- 5 whole cloves
- 4 green cardamom pods
- 2 cinnamon sticks (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 whole star anise
Garnishes
- Orange slices
- Cinnamon sticks
Instructions
- Combine Liquids and Flavorings: In a Dutch oven or a large pot, stir together the red wine, apple cider, honey, orange zest, and freshly squeezed orange juice until well mixed.
- Add the Spices: Incorporate the whole cloves, green cardamom pods, cinnamon sticks, and star anise into the pot, distributing the spices evenly for maximum infusion.
- Simmer the Mulled Wine: Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 30 minutes. Be careful not to let the wine boil, to preserve its delicate flavors and alcohol content.
- Finish with Brandy and Serve: Stir in the brandy just before serving to add depth and warmth. Ladle the mulled wine into mugs and garnish each with a fresh orange slice and a cinnamon stick for a beautiful presentation and an extra touch of spice.
Notes
- Do not boil the wine as it can alter the flavor and reduce alcohol content.
- You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey according to taste.
- The type of red wine used affects the final flavor; fruity dry wines complement the spices best.
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the wine and brandy and use extra apple cider.
- Keep the mulled wine warm on low heat or in a slow cooker set to warm if serving over time.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: European
