What’s better than enjoying a warm mug of cozily spiced mulled wine in front of a fireplace or on the sofa?
Making German Gluhwein is not difficult at all — plus, you can make it non-alcoholic if wanted.
If you’re at a Christmas market anywhere in Europe, you’ll see it everywhere!
What is mulled wine?
Traditional mulled wine consists of red wine and a mix of spices and citrus fruit. It’s a spiced wine, also called Glühwein or Glögg, and smells like everything you love about Christmas!
Why you’ll love it
- Bursting with cozy spices and flavors
- Can be made non-alcoholic
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Perfect for entertaining guests
- Great DIY gift idea
- Must-try holiday cocktail
How to make German Gluhwein
Pour red wine and berry juice into a large pot. Add whole spices, sugar, sliced lemon, and sliced orange.
Simmer for around 20 minutes over low heat to all the spices to infuse the wine with their warmth. Add brandy if wanted and enjoy hot!
Tips & adjustments
- You can also add sliced apples to your mulled wine while cooking it.
- Store any leftover German mulled wine by removing the loose ingredients and then pouring it into an empty bottle. It’ll keep well for a few days in the fridge.
- Reheat your mulled wine over low heat on the stove.
- If you let mulled wine boil on the stove, the alcohol will evaporate!
More recipes
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Ingredients
- 15 fl oz of red wine
- 15 fl oz berry juice
- 1 orange
- 1 lemon
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 6 cloves
- 2 star anise
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- Spritz of brandy optional
Instructions
- Wash the orange and lemon and cut them into slices.
- Add them together with all the spice, sugar, wine, and juice into a pot. Warm over low heat and make sure it doesn’t boil if you don’t want the alcohol to evaporate!
- Let the mulled wine warm on the stove for at least 20 minutes. It’ll cause the flavors to become very rich!
- Divide your Gluhwein between mugs and enjoy hot.
Notes
- For an alcohol-free Gluhwein, swap the red wine for berry juice.
- We like to use smooth and mild red wine for this recipe. Feel free to go for a more distinct flavor if wanted!
- Adjust this recipe to your taste preferences by adding more lemon to make it sourer or more orange and sugar to make it sweeter.
