Mulled Wine
A cozy, aromatic blend of red wine simmered with warm spices like cinnamon and star anise, fresh orange slices, and a touch of brandy. The perfect warm beverage for chilly evenings and holiday gatherings.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Combine all ingredients in a large saucepan or Dutch oven
- a.Stir gently to mix.
- b.Pour the bottle of red wine into the pot.
- c.Add the brandy, maple syrup, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and whole cloves.
- 2
Warm the mixture over medium-low heat for about 5-10 minutes
- a.Heat until steam begins to rise and the wine is warm, but do not let it boil. Boiling will cook off the alcohol and can make the spices bitter.
- b.Watch for small bubbles forming at the edges of the pot as an indicator that it's hot enough.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover the pot, and let it gently simmer for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For a more intense flavor, you can keep it on low heat for up to 3 hours.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Carefully strain the wine through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the spices and fruit. Serve immediately in heatproof mugs.
- b.Garnish each mug with a fresh orange slice or a cinnamon stick for a festive touch.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choose a fruity, full-bodied red wine that you would enjoy drinking on its own. You don't need an expensive bottle.
- 2Always use whole spices, not ground. Ground spices will create a cloudy, gritty texture in the final drink.
- 3For a beautiful presentation, stud the orange slices with the whole cloves before adding them to the pot.
- 4To keep the mulled wine warm for a party, transfer the strained liquid to a slow cooker set on the 'Warm' or 'Low' setting.
- 5Taste and adjust the sweetness before serving. You can add more maple syrup or honey if desired.
Adapt it for your goals.
Non-Alcoholic
Replace the red wine with an equal amount of high-quality cranberry juice, pomegranate juice, or apple cider for a delicious alcohol-free version.
White Mulled WineWhite Mulled Wine
Use a dry white wine like a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc instead of red. Consider adding apple slices and a vanilla bean for a different flavor profile.
Extra SpiceExtra Spice
Add other warming spices like a few green cardamom pods, a slice of fresh ginger, or a pinch of nutmeg for more complexity.
Different SpiritsDifferent Spirits
Swap the brandy for another spirit like Cointreau (orange liqueur), dark rum, or bourbon for a unique twist.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Red wine is a source of resveratrol, while spices like cloves and cinnamon are packed with antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body.
Warming and Comforting
The combination of warm liquid and spices like cinnamon and ginger can have a warming effect on the body, making it a perfect beverage for cold weather and promoting a sense of comfort and relaxation.
Potential Anti-inflammatory Properties
Spices such as cinnamon and cloves contain compounds that have been studied for their anti-inflammatory effects, which may contribute to overall wellness.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving (1 cup) of this mulled wine contains approximately 200-250 calories, depending on the specific wine and amount of sweetener used.