Description
A warm and spiced mulled wine recipe perfect for cozy gatherings. This classic winter drink combines dry red wine with aromatic spices, citrus, and a touch of sweetness, simmered gently to infuse deep flavors without boiling off the alcohol.
Ingredients
Scale
Mulled Wine Ingredients
- 1 (750 ml) bottle of dry red wine
- 1/4 cup brandy (or orange liqueur)
- 1 orange, sliced into rounds (peel if a less-bitter drink is desired)
- 8 whole cloves
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 star anise
- 2 to 4 tablespoons sugar, honey, or maple syrup to taste (or your desired sweetener)
- Optional garnishes: citrus slices (orange, lemon, and/or lime), extra cinnamon sticks, extra star anise
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add wine, brandy, orange slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and 2 tablespoons of your chosen sweetener to a large saucepan. Stir briefly to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Simmer Gently: Cook the mixture over medium-high heat until it just barely reaches a simmer. Avoid boiling to prevent alcohol evaporation. Once simmering, reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and let the wine simmer gently for at least 15 minutes and up to 3 hours, allowing flavors to meld.
- Strain the Spices: Using a fine mesh strainer, remove and discard the orange slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and star anise. Taste the mulled wine and stir in extra sweetener if desired to adjust sweetness levels.
- Serve Warm: Pour the mulled wine into heatproof mugs and garnish with your choice of citrus slices, cinnamon sticks, or star anise for an inviting presentation. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- Do not allow the wine to boil to preserve the alcohol content and prevent bitterness.
- Sugar can be substituted with honey or maple syrup based on preference.
- Peeling the orange reduces bitterness and results in a smoother flavor.
- Mulled wine can be kept warm on very low heat or reheated gently before serving.
- Adjust sweetness and spices according to taste.
