Last Updated on November 23, 2023 by Thyme with Tina

The taste of mulled wine always enhances that Christmassy feeling and turns the festive mood on.

Disclaimer: If you are underage and/or shouldn’t be consuming alcohol there will be another festive beverage recipe coming soon.

What is mulled wine?

Mulled wine boasts a rich history dating back to ancient times. Originating in Rome, it was known as “hippocras” and was a concoction of wine, honey, and various spices.

As the Roman Empire expanded, so did the popularity of spiced and heated wines. Over the centuries, it evolved across Europe, with each region adding its unique twist of spices.

In medieval England, it became a symbol of hospitality and warmth during the festive season. Today, mulled wine is a global winter tradition, cherished for its comforting blend of wine, spices, and the enduring spirit of seasonal celebration.

Looking for Christmas Recipes? Try Vegan Lamingtons

I have to admit there is just something special about drinking sweet and spiced wine. It kinda of reminds me of that Christmas pudding feeling after dinner. But drinkable. Do you know what I mean?

What ingredients are in mulled wine?

• Wine – good quality red wine is a must if you want to enjoy a luxurious taste. (see below what wine is best)
• Spices – The Spices are the most important ingredients after the wine. Cloves, star anise, and cinnamon sticks are the holy grail that transforms the standard red wine into mulled 🙂
• Citrus – Orange and lemon slices will give that delicious, citrusy, and fresh taste. In case you prefer your wine sweet, you can omit the citrus. Personally, I highly recommend adding it.

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What is the perfect wine for mulled wine?

I am not an expert, therefore I will share what experts say. They recommend Italian reds, Southern French or New World Merlot and Shiraz wine. I used Merlot.

Check if your wine is vegan on Barnivore.com

Is mulled wine a hot drink?

Yes, mulled wine is a drink usually served hot but you can enjoy it warm too. It is supposed to keep you warm and give you that beautiful cosy Christmassy feeling.

Festive Mulled Wine Recipe

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

5

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

This mulled wine recipe always enhances that Christmassy feeling and turns the festive mood on.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle red wine (750ml)

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 5 whole cloves

• 3-star anise

• 1/4 cup brown rum

• 1 orange (sliced)

• 1/2 lemon (sliced)

• 1/3 cup brown sugar or maple syrup (see notes)*

Directions

• Combine all the ingredients in a large cooking pot.
• Stir everything, cover the pot and simmer on medium heat for about 15 minutes.
• Be careful not to boil the wine, otherwise, the alcohol will start evaporating.
• Remove from the stove and let it sit for a moment.
• Serve warm with more orange and/or lemon slices.
• Enjoy! 🙂

Notes

• Depending on the sweetness of the wine, add sugar gradually and add more/less by taste.