Description
A warm and fragrant mulled wine recipe perfect for cozy gatherings and festive occasions. This traditional spiced wine combines dry red wine, brandy, citrus, and warming spices simmered gently to infuse rich flavors without losing the alcohol content. Sweetened to taste and garnished with citrus and spices, it is an inviting beverage to enjoy on chilly evenings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 (750 ml) bottle of dry red wine
- 1/4 cup brandy (or orange liqueur)
- 1 orange, sliced into rounds (or peeled for less bitterness)
- 8 whole cloves
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 star anise
- 2 to 4 tablespoons sugar, honey, or maple syrup (to taste)
Optional Garnishes
- Citrus slices (orange, lemon, and/or lime)
- Extra cinnamon sticks
- Extra star anise
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, add the dry red wine, brandy (or orange liqueur), sliced orange rounds, whole cloves, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and 2 tablespoons of your chosen sweetener. Stir briefly to combine all the flavors.
- Simmer Gently: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and cook until the mixture just barely reaches a simmer. Be careful not to boil it, as boiling will evaporate the alcohol and alter the flavor. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer gently for at least 15 minutes or up to 3 hours to allow the spices and citrus to infuse deeply into the wine.
- Strain the Mixture: After simmering, use a fine mesh strainer to remove and discard the orange slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and star anise. Taste the mulled wine, adding more sweetener if desired, stirring well to dissolve it.
- Serve Warm: Pour the mulled wine into heatproof mugs or glasses. Garnish with your choice of citrus slices, extra cinnamon sticks, or star anise for a festive touch. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- For a less bitter flavor, peel the oranges before slicing instead of using the whole fruit.
- Adjust sweetness to taste by varying the amount of sugar, honey, or maple syrup.
- Do not let the wine boil; keep at a gentle simmer to preserve the alcohol content.
- If preparing ahead, mulled wine can be gently reheated on the stovetop before serving.
- Try different spices such as cardamom pods or nutmeg for a unique twist.
