Mulled wine , also called mulled wine or vin chaud, is a hot alcoholic drink based on wine, a true symbol of winter. Known and appreciated throughout Europe, this spicy wine warms hearts and souls during cold winter evenings . But what exactly is mulled wine and where does this tradition come from?
The origins of mulled wine date back to antiquity, when the Romans used to heat the wine by adding spices and honey to enhance its flavor and preserve it. This custom has evolved over the centuries, spreading to various countries and adapting to local tastes. Today, mulled wine is particularly popular at Christmas markets in Germany, where it is known as "Glühwein", but also in France, Italy, Austria and Switzerland.
Preparing mulled wine at home is not only a wonderful way to recreate the magical atmosphere of the Christmas holidays, but also offers the opportunity to customize the recipe according to your tastes. Whether it's an intimate evening with friends, a family party or simply a relaxing moment in front of the fireplace, mulled wine is the perfect drink for any winter occasion.
Mulled wine recipe to make it at home
What makes mulled wine so special? It is the unique combination of red wine , spices and citrus fruits which, heated together, release an irresistible aroma and a delicious flavour. Preparing mulled wine at home allows you to customize every detail , carefully choosing the ingredients and measuring the spices according to your tastes.
Mulled wine ingredients:
- Red Wine : Choose a bottle of good quality red wine, preferably full-bodied and fruity. Wines with a good tannic structure are ideal.
- Oranges : One or two oranges, sliced. You can use both the pulp and the zest for a more intense flavor.
- Lemons : One lemon, sliced. Again, use both the pulp and the zest.
- Sweeteners : Sugar (about 100-150 grams) or honey, depending on your taste.
- Cinnamon : 2-3 cinnamon sticks.
- Cloves : 8-10 cloves.
- Star Anise : 2-3 anise stars.
- Nutmeg : A pinch of grated nutmeg.
- Black Pepper : A few grains of black pepper, for a spicy touch.
- Ginger : A small piece of fresh ginger root, thinly sliced or a teaspoon of powdered ginger.
To prepare, simply heat everything over medium-low heat, avoiding boiling the wine. The secret is to keep the wine warm , allowing the wine spices to release their aromas without burning. Leave to cook for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. At the end you can serve the hot mulled wine in heat-resistant cups or glasses.
Tips for a perfect Mulled Wine
Making the perfect mulled wine requires attention to detail and choosing the right ingredients. Use a good quality red wine : wines with a good tannic structure, such as Merlot , Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah , are ideal for mulled wine.
Don't overdo it with spices. Too much cinnamon or too many cloves can overpower the flavor of the wine. Start with small amounts and gradually add until you reach the desired balance. Adjust the sweetness by tasting the mulled wine during cooking. Remember that some spices can add a naturally sweet flavor , so you may need less sugar than expected.
Experiment with adding other ingredients like vanilla, cardamom , or even a little rum or brandy for a stronger, more aromatic variation. For a non-alcoholic version , you can replace the red wine with apple or pomegranate juice, keeping the same spices for a similar effect but without the alcohol.
