Discover the ultimate mulled wine recipe, a perfect warm and spiced drink to elevate your Christmas festivities.
Jump straight to
Christmas is about warmth, cheer, and sharing moments with loved ones. And what better way to capture the festive spirit than with a steaming glass of mulled wine? With its rich blend of spices, citrus, and wine, this classic holiday drink is the perfect way to add a cosy touch to your celebrations.
Whether hosting a Christmas party or enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, this recipe will surely delight you. Let’s explore the best mulled wine recipe, which is easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress your guests.
A Brief History of Mulled Wine
Mulled wine has a history as rich and warm as the drink itself. This spiced and heated wine originated in ancient Rome to fortify travellers against the cold.
In the 2nd century, the Romans introduced the tradition of drinking hot spiced wine to fend off the winter chill. Known as Conditum Paradoxum, this early version was made by boiling honey with wine, infusing it with spices like pepper, laurel, and saffron, and mixing it with higher-quality wine for a refined flavour.
As the Roman Empire grew, so did the popularity of this warming drink. The practice of spicing and heating wine spread across Europe, inspiring regional variations in places like Germany, France, and England, each adding their local twists to the tradition.
In the Middle Ages, 'Hypocras' was a drink made from wine, honey, sometimes sugar, and spices. The name is often wrongly attributed to Hippocrates, the ancient Greek physician. However, research dates the term to the 14th century.
In the Victorian era, mulled wine became synonymous with Christmas, thanks to Charles Dickens's portrayal of "Smoking Bishop" in A Christmas Carol. Today, it remains a festive favourite, evoking nostalgia and warmth with every sip.
Ingredients for the Perfect Mulled Wine
1 bottle of red wine
1 orange, sliced into rounds
2 cinnamon sticks
whole cloves (according to taste)
3-star anise
3 tablespoons of honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
1/4 cup brandy (optional, but adds depth)
Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (optional garnish)
How to Make Perfect Mulled Wine at Home
Making mulled wine at home is easier than you might think, and it’s a wonderful way to fill your home with the aroma of the holidays. Making mulled wine at home is easier than you might think, and it’s a wonderful way to fill your home with the aroma of the holidays.
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Choose the Right Wine:Â Select a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. These wines provide a robust base that complements the spices and fruits.
Sweeten to Taste:Â Add sugar, honey, or your preferred sweetener to the wine. Adjust the amount based on your taste; a good starting point is 3-4 tablespoons.
Add Aromatics:Â Combine cloves and mandarine for a nostalgic twist. A fun childhood memory is piercing a mandarine (skin on) with whole cloves and warming the entire fruit in the wine. It infuses the drink with a delightful citrusy-spice aroma.
Simmer Gently:Â Heat the mixture over low heat for about 30 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil, which can cause the alcohol to evaporate and the flavours to dull.
Strain and Serve:Â Once the wine is fully infused with the spices and citrus, strain it into mugs or heat-proof glasses.
Garnish:Â For an extra festive touch, garnish with a slice of orange, a cinnamon stick, or even a star anise pod.
Keep Warm: If you’re serving mulled wine at a party, warm it in a slow cooker on the lowest setting.
Mulled wine is perfect for hearty winter foods like roasted meats, root vegetables, or rich stew. It’s also an excellent addition to holiday parties, offering guests a warm and comforting treat.
Which Alcohol to Add Apart from Wine?
While red wine is the cornerstone of mulled wine, you can enhance the flavour with a splash of other spirits:
Brandy:Â Adds depth and richness.
Cointreau:Â A citrusy kick that complements the orange slices.
Rum:Â Dark rum works beautifully as a tropical twist.
Amaretto:Â A nutty sweetness that pairs well with cinnamon and cloves.
What Wines are Best for Mulled Wine?
Choosing the right wine is essential. Medium-bodied red wines with fruity notes work best. Consider these options:
Merlot: Smooth and versatile, it’s perfect for spiced drinks.
Shiraz:Â Its bold and peppery notes stand up well to the spices.
Cabernet Sauvignon: Its rich and structured body enhances the depth of the spices, while its dark fruit notes complement the citrus and sweetness.
Contrary to popular belief, cheap wine isn’t necessarily better. While you don’t need an expensive bottle, opt for something drinkable to ensure the best results.
Which Sugar Should You Use?
Sweetening your mulled wine is key to balancing the spices. Here are your options:
Honey:Â Adds a floral sweetness and a smooth texture.
Brown Sugar:Â Its caramel-like notes enhance the depth of the drink.
Granulated Sugar:Â A neutral choice that lets the spices shine.
Which Fruits and Spices Are Best?
The magic of mulled wine lies in its blend of fruits and spices:
Fruits:Â Orange slices are a must, but you can add apple slices, cranberries, or even pomegranate seeds for a festive touch.
Spices:Â Cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise are classics. Try a unique twist: nutmeg, cardamom pods, or a dash of ginger.
Bring the magic of Christmas to your gatherings with these warm and festive drinks. Whether you’re sipping mulled wine with some Christmas recipes, a comforting hot toddy, or a family-friendly hot cider, these recipes will surely warm hearts and create lasting memories.
Sign up for our newsletter to receive every update from OMG Food Malta.
Comments