Name: Mulled Wine Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 1 (750 ml) bottle of dry red wine; 1/4 cup brandy (or orange liqueur); 1 orange, sliced into rounds (peel if you prefer less bitterness); 8 whole cloves; 2 cinnamon sticks; 2 star anise; 2 to 4 tablespoons sugar, honey, or maple syrup (or preferred sweetener); Citrus slices (orange, lemon, and/or lime); Extra cinnamon sticks; Extra star anise

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 9 reviews

There is nothing quite like the comforting, fragrant warmth of a perfectly spiced Mulled Wine Recipe to bring friends and family together during cozy evenings. This classic drink blends dry red wine with a harmonious medley of aromatic spices and citrus, gently simmered to infuse every drop with seasonal cheer. Whether you’re winding down after a chilly day or hosting a festive gathering, this Mulled Wine Recipe promises to delight your senses and create memorable moments with every sip.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with dark red liquid is being poured from a bottle. Inside the bowl, there are bright orange slices with cloves stuck in them, red slices of fruit, dark brown cinnamon sticks, and a star anise floating on the surface. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with some cinnamon sticks and cloves on a small white dish nearby. The photo is close-up and well-lit, showing detailed textures of the fruit, spices, and liquid. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Mulled Wine Recipe lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element contributes to a balanced flavor profile: the dry red wine offers body and depth, the brandy adds warmth and complexity, and the fresh orange slices brighten the mix with zesty citrus notes. The spices bring that unmistakable festive aroma and taste, making every step in preparing this drink a joy.

Dry red wine: Choose a fruity yet dry wine to provide the perfect base without overpowering the spices.
Brandy or orange liqueur: Adds a smooth kick and subtle sweetness, enhancing the overall warmth of the drink.
Orange slices: For fresh citrus flavor; peeling the orange can reduce bitterness if preferred.
Whole cloves: Impart a warm, slightly sweet spiciness that’s essential to the aroma.
Cinnamon sticks: Adds depth and a sweet woodsy tone that comforts with every sip.
Star anise: Offers a unique licorice-like flavor that beautifully complements the cinnamon and cloves.
Sweetener (sugar, honey, or maple syrup): Adjust this to your taste for just the right balance of sweetness.
Optional garnishes: Extra citrus slices, cinnamon sticks, or star anise to make your presentation pop and boost aroma.

How to Make Mulled Wine Recipe

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

Start by pouring your dry red wine and brandy into a large saucepan. Then, add the orange slices, whole cloves, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and 2 tablespoons of your sweetener of choice. Give everything a gentle stir just to combine the flavors before heating.

Step 2: Simmer Gently

Bring the mixture to just below a simmer over medium-high heat—watch carefully to ensure it doesn’t bubble vigorously because boiling will evaporate the precious alcohol. Once just on the brink of simmering, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the mulled wine gently infuse its flavors for anywhere between 15 minutes and 3 hours. The longer it simmers, the deeper and more developed the flavors become.

Step 3: Strain and Taste

Once your mulled wine has steeped to perfection, use a fine mesh strainer to remove all orange slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and star anise. Give the mulled wine a careful taste test; if you prefer it a touch sweeter, gently stir in extra sweetener, keeping the balance that suits your palate.

Step 4: Serve Warm

Pour your steaming Mulled Wine Recipe into heatproof mugs or glasses, ready for garnishing and enjoying the welcoming warmth that this drink offers. The cozy atmosphere this creates is truly unbeatable.

How to Serve Mulled Wine Recipe

Three clear glass mugs are filled with dark red mulled drink, each containing a thick orange slice floating inside near the top edge. Each mug also holds a cinnamon stick standing upright and a star anise placed on the surface, giving texture with its star shape. The mugs rest on a white marbled surface with soft light reflections on the glass, showing a warm, cozy feel. One cinnamon stick lies on the surface beside the mugs. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishes not only make your mulled wine visually inviting but also enhance the flavor with subtle aromatic accents. Think extra slices of orange, lemon, or lime, a cinnamon stick tucked into each mug, or a star anise resting elegantly on top. These little touches make every cup feel special and festive.

Side Dishes

Mulled wine pairs beautifully with hearty, comforting snacks and desserts. Think spiced nuts, warm apple pie, or a rich cheese board featuring sharp cheddar and aged gouda. These combinations complement the warmly spiced wine and turn your gathering into a delicious celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve the mulled wine in rustic mugs or glass mugs with handles to showcase its rich color. Add edible flowers or sugared cranberries for a festive touch, or serve alongside small candles to enhance the cozy ambiance. Hot drinks presentations that feel thoughtful elevate your entire event effortlessly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have extra mulled wine (and who wouldn’t enjoy that), allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or bottle. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep the flavors fresh and vibrant.

Freezing

While freezing mulled wine is possible, the texture and flavor nuances can diminish. If you do freeze it, leave enough space in the container for expansion and thaw it slowly in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

To enjoy leftover mulled wine, warm it slowly over low heat without letting it boil. Stir occasionally and avoid microwaving to preserve the delicate blend of spices and alcohol content. This reheating method keeps the drink tasting just as delightful as the first pour.

FAQs

Can I use any type of red wine for mulled wine?

You want to choose a dry red wine that’s fruity and not too tannic. Wines like Merlot, Zinfandel, or Cabernet Sauvignon work wonderfully because they offer bold flavors that stand up well to the spices and citrus.

How long can I leave the mulled wine to simmer?

The mulled wine can simmer on low heat for as little as 15 minutes or up to 3 hours. The longer it simmers, the more intense the spice infusion will be, so adjust according to your flavor preference.

Is it possible to make a non-alcoholic version of this Mulled Wine Recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute the red wine with unsweetened grape juice or cranberry juice and keep all the spices and citrus. You can add a splash of brandy extract or apple cider vinegar for a hint of complexity without alcohol.

What sweetener works best for mulled wine?

It’s really up to your taste. Traditional sugar works well, but honey and maple syrup both add unique richness and depth. Start with 2 tablespoons and adjust gradually for the perfect balance.

Can I prepare mulled wine ahead of time for a party?

Yes! This Mulled Wine Recipe actually benefits from some resting time after simmering as the flavors meld even more. Prepare it a few hours ahead, keep it warm in a slow cooker or thermos, and enjoy serving it to your guests without fuss.

Final Thoughts

There truly is something joyful and comforting about sharing a warm cup of this Mulled Wine Recipe with those you love. It’s simple to make, yet indulgently fragrant and flavorful—a drink that invites you to slow down and savor the moment. I encourage you to try it soon and make it your go-to for seasonal gatherings or quiet evenings at home. Cheers to warmth, friendship, and the perfect mulled wine!

Mulled Wine Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need