Mulled wine is the ultimate cozy drink, blending rich spices and fruity warmth in every sip. With just 5 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of simmering, it’s a fuss-free way to fill your home with the inviting aroma of cinnamon, cloves, and citrus. Perfect for chilly evenings, this drink wraps you in comfort while delighting your taste buds with its sweet, tangy, and spiced layers.
The velvety texture of the wine, infused with tender orange slices and fragrant spices, creates a luxurious experience. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, mulled wine is a festive treat that feels indulgent yet effortless. Its deep, aromatic flavors make it a holiday staple you’ll want to savor all season long.
Ingredients for Mulled Wine
- 1 medium orange (zested and sliced)
- 1 (750 ml) bottle dry red wine (such as merlot)
- 2 cups apple cider (more as desired for sweetness)
- 10 whole cloves
- 8 whole star anise
- 6 whole cinnamon sticks (plus more for serving)
- 2 to 4 tablespoons ginger juice (optional, to taste)
- Rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
- Cranberries (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the orange: Use a vegetable peeler to peel 3-4 strips of zest off half of the orange. Slice the remaining half into thin rounds and set aside for garnish.
- Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the red wine, apple cider, and the juice from the zested ½ orange. Add the orange zest, cloves, star anise, and cinnamon sticks.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer gently for 20 to 30 minutes, ensuring it does not boil.
- Add ginger juice: Stir in the ginger juice, if using. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more apple cider if desired. For a stronger spice flavor, add more whole spices and simmer for an additional 15 minutes.
- Strain and serve: Remove from heat and strain the mixture into a pitcher or mugs. Serve with the reserved orange rounds and cinnamon sticks. Garnish with rosemary sprigs and cranberries, if desired.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions for Mulled Wine
Mulled wine is a cozy treat on its own, but it pairs beautifully with festive snacks. Serve it alongside spiced nuts, cheese platters, or gingerbread cookies for a delightful holiday spread. For a heartier option, try it with roasted chestnuts or savory puff pastry bites.
Make It Your Own: Recipe Variations
Customize your mulled wine to suit your taste! Swap the red wine for white wine or apple cider for a lighter version. Add a splash of brandy or rum for extra warmth. For a citrus twist, include lemon zest or grapefruit slices. Experiment with spices like cardamom or allspice for a unique flavor profile.
Keep It Cozy: Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover mulled wine in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent boiling. Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the flavor. Add a splash of fresh apple cider or wine to refresh the taste before serving.
Spice It Up: Time-Saving Tips
Short on time? Use pre-squeezed orange juice instead of fresh oranges. Opt for ground spices instead of whole ones, but reduce the quantity to avoid overpowering the drink. Simmer for just 10-15 minutes if you’re in a hurry—the flavors will still shine!
Essential Tools: Equipment Guidance
You’ll need a medium saucepan for simmering and a fine-mesh strainer to remove the spices before serving. A vegetable peeler makes zesting the orange a breeze. For serving, use heatproof mugs or a glass pitcher to keep the wine warm and festive.
Mulled Wine
Ingredients
- 1 medium orange
- 1 (750 ml) bottle dry red wine, such as merlot
- 2 cups apple cider, more as desired
- 10 whole cloves
- 8 whole star anise
- 6 whole cinnamon sticks, plus more for serving
- 2 to 4 tablespoons ginger juice, to taste (optional)
- Rosemary sprigs, for garnish
- Cranberries, for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Use a vegetable peeler to peel 3-4 strips of zest off half of the orange. Slice the remaining half into thin rounds and set aside for garnish.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the red wine, apple cider, and the juice from the zested ½ orange. Add the orange zest, cloves, star anise, and cinnamon sticks. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and simmer on low for 20 to 30 minutes. Be careful not to let it come to a boil.
- Stir in the ginger juice, if using. Taste, and if you like your mulled wine sweeter, add more apple cider. If you like it more spiced, add more whole spices and simmer for 15 more minutes.
- Remove from the heat, strain, and pour into a pitcher or mugs. Serve with the reserved orange rounds and cinnamon sticks. Garnish with rosemary sprigs and cranberries, if desired.